Capturing Your Dog’s Wild Heart: Exclusive Adventure Sessions

Golden Retriever, spring, waterfall, Diana's Bath, New Hampshire during a Wild Heart Session

Your Adventurous Dog’s Wild Heart

Are you an adventurous soul who loves exploring the great outdoors with your best friend? Whether you’re hiking rugged trails, paddling on serene lakes or enjoying epic vistas you understand that life is an adventure best shared with your best friend. Our exclusive Wild Heart sessions are designed for outdoor enthusiasts like you, who want to capture those exhilarating moments and preserve them forever.

Epic Landscapes, Unforgettable Moments

From hiking rocky mountain trails to paddling along tranquil rivers to taking in sunrise over rocky shores we’ll craft a custom Wild Heart Session just for you. One that showcases your dog’s adventurous spirit in the most stunning settings.

Imagine your dog splashing joyfully in crystal-clear streams, shaking off droplets as they playfully chase after the water’s flow. Picture your happy dog standing atop rocky outcrops with the world spread out below them. Can you imagine seeing gorgeous images of your adventures in your home every day. Especially those boring days when you have to go to work and can’t be in the great outdoors with your best friend.

The gorgeous Afghan Hound amid the forest during her Wild Heart Session with Massachusetts Dog Photographer Donna Kelliher

Create Lasting Memories

As we journey together, we will bask in your dog’s infectious energy as they navigate the wild landscape with unbridled enthusiasm. We’ll capture your dog against breathtaking backdrops—whether it’s the majestic peaks of a mountain range, the vibrant colors of a sunset over rolling hills or the serene beauty of paddling the lake with you. These special moments will be captured, preserving the essence of your adventures together and creating timeless memories that you can cherish for a lifetime.

Each Wild Heart Session includes:

  • A personalized 4-hour adventure at you and your dog’s favorite place.
  • Travel within 100 miles of Boston (longer distances available for a travel fee).
  • Includes a beautifully framed 30-inch print, metal or canvas OR my premium photo album, and 5 high-resolution digital files.
Dog Portrait displayed in living room by Donna Kelliher Photography

Exciting Introductory Offer

To kick things off, I’m thrilled to offer a special introductory discount for the first two people who book a Wild Heart Session with me:

First Person to Book: Just $995 (regularly $1,995)

Second Person to Book: Only $1,495 (regularly $1,995)

This is a fantastic opportunity to create breathtaking artwork that showcases your dog’s adventurous spirit and the incredible bond you share.

Ready to embark on this adventure? Questions? Reach out today to secure your spot and take advantage of this limited-time offer. I can’t wait to capture the joy and excitement of your adventures with your Wild Heart!

Capture Your Pup’s Magic with Sessions Amongst the Blossoms 🌷🐶🌷

Hello fellow dog lovers! If you’re all about capturing your furry friends in an incredible, unique location then my Flower Field sessions are a perfect choice! Picture this: your dog, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of blossoms, basking in that dreamy golden hour glow—it’s like something out of a fairy tale!

My Flower Field sessions are truly paw-some for several reasons. First, there’s the magical golden hour glow, which bathes your pet in soft, warm light of sunrise making them shine like a superstar. And what are flower photos if your pet isn’t absolutely surrounded by them. So I get down LOW to capture your dog from their best angle, right in the midst of all those beautiful blooms. Picture head tilts and curious noses sniffing through a wall of flowers—it’s pure joy. Your gorgeous pup absolutely surrounded by beautiful, colorful blossoms turns every image into a work of art, making it look like your pet is starring in their own nature documentary, but way cuter.

a mixed breed dog posing in a field of blossoms during a tulip session this spring in Ipswich, Massachusetts
a standard poodle posing amid the blooms during a tulip session this spring in Ipswich, Massachusetts

Celebrating Spring Tulip Sessions

Our recent spring tulip sessions have been nothing short of magical. The vibrant colors of the tulips provided a stunning backdrop for our canine clients, ranging from deep reds and purples to soft pinks and yellows. These sessions resulted in breathtaking images that capture not just the beauty of the dogs, but also the essence of spring itself.

Clients have been thrilled with the images and the artwork we created for their homes. Seriously, who needs a bouquet when you can have your pet surrounded by tulips forever?

a labrador retriever posing in a field of tulips during a blossom session
a Beagle posing in a field of tulips during a blossom session this spring in Ipswich, Massachusetts

Next up Lavender Field Sessions!

As we transition into summer, we’re excited to announce our upcoming lavender field sessions. The soft purple hues of lavender fields offer a more serene backdrop compared to the vibrant energy of the tulips.

Picture your dog posing amid rows and rows of purple blooms as the sun rises and the bees gently buzz about. The morning is still cool and you’re surrounded by the incredible fragrance of lavender creating a relaxing atmosphere for our pups and us. These sessions will provide a perfect opportunity for creating elegant, timeless portraits that exude calm and tranquility.

And if you’re crazy about all things lavender like I am, you can check out the farm store and bring some lavender goodies home with you.

Transforming Homes with Floral Pet Portraits

The true magic of these flower field sessions lies in their ability to transform living spaces. These aren’t just photographs; they’re pieces of art that bring color, life and the beauty of nature (and of course, the love of your pups) into your home.

Let’s make sure your pet gets their moment in the sun —because they deserve to shine brighter than any flower in the field!

a portrait of a dog in a field of flowers on an office wall

Ready to capture your pet’s playful side in a picture-perfect flower field? Click here for more information. Contact us now to book your session and let’s make magic happen.

Adventure Awaits! Help Us Scout Epic, New Locations (and one of you will win a complimentary session…)

As a pet photographer based on the North Shore of Massachusetts, capturing the essence of your furry best friend goes beyond just snapping a picture. It’s about creating timeless artwork that reflects your pet’s personality and celebrates the special bond you share. A big part of this is choosing the perfect locations to set the stage for your pet’s starring role. This is where the magic begins!

Location, Location, Location!

I meticulously select session locations based on several factors.

  • Safety: Is always the first consideration. Even though most dogs I photograph are on leash during their sessions, I want a location that is not crowded with loose dogs, heavy traffic nearby or natural features that could be dangerous.
  • Pet-Friendly: Obviously 🙂
  • Variety: Within a location, I look for opportunities to create diverse compositions – wide vistas, intimate vignettes, and playful action shots. Maybe a field with some wooded areas, a rock wall to pose on, you get the idea.
  • Lighting: The golden glow of sunrise or sunset can create warm, dreamy images while the light filtering through trees in the woods creates a classic, natural look.
  • Ambiance: A peaceful meander through the woods allows for relaxed portraits, while crashing waves at the beach injects a dose of playful energy.

I work hard to match the location to the pet’s personality and your tastes. Paying special attention to dogs that might need quieter locations over the party-animals that are up for anything, anywhere.

I have a long list of favorite locations, but every year I want to add some new locations to offer to my clients.


Calling All New England Pet Lovers!

That’s where you come in friends! I’m on the hunt for some hidden gems or under-appreciated favorites within an hour or so drive of Boston. Breathtaking vistas further out (up to 2 hours) are also welcome! To incentivize your exploration expertise, I’ll be offering a complimentary custom pet photography session to the person who suggests a location I absolutely love and use in a future shoot.

On our photographic quest, we’re seeking these pawsome locations:

Locations- Sunset at Lake Sunapee, NH at Wag It Camp.

Within an hour (or so) of Boston:

  • Sunset Silhouettes: Can you recommend a scenic spot with a clear horizon for capturing those breathtaking sunset silhouettes? Think hilltops or open fields with unobstructed views of the western horizon.
  • Water Wonderland: Beaches are great (I love Wingaersheek for great portraits), but for a touch of variety, what about a gorgeous lake, river or stream with unique features? Think rustic bridges, rocky outcroppings or vibrant foliage framing the water’s edge. Bonus points if there is a shallow area for those epic splash photos.
  • Wildflowers: I have a couple of locations with summer flower fields, but would love to find another spring wildflower location.

Epic Vistas (up to 2 hours away):

  • River Rhapsody: A flowing river with a rocky bank offers both natural beauty and interesting textures. Smaller streams can be ideal for creating a sense of adventure for your furry explorers.
  • Epic Escapes: Breathtaking waterfalls cascading down moss-covered rocks, or mountain ranges painted with vibrant hues during sunrise/sunset. These locations add a touch of grandeur to your pet’s portraits.
Locations: Australian Shepherd photographed at Lake Tahoe, CA
Unfortunately this epic location is at Lake Tahoe, CA, so a bit farther than 2 hrs away…

Do you have special place you think would be perfect that’s not on the list, let me know!


The Winning Shot!

For the reader who suggests a location that absolutely steals my heart (and becomes the setting for a stunning pet photography session), I’ll be offering a complimentary pet photography session and 8×10 metal print!

So unleash your inner explorer! Leave a comment below (or email me) with details about your suggested location in Eastern/Central MA, Northern CT/RI and Southern NH/VT. Include its pet-friendliness and any special features that make it unique.

I can’t wait to explore these hidden treasures and capture some truly unforgettable pet portraits!

P.S. Don’t forget to share this post with your fellow pet lovers! The more suggestions we get, the wider our range of stunning locations will be.



Beyond the Backyard: Unleash Stunning Pet Portraits in Amazing Locations

Admit it, our dogs are our family. Sometimes our favorite members of the family😜.They bring us endless joy, unconditional love, and of course, endless tail wags. As a professional dog photographer, I specialize in capturing the unique personalities and playful spirits of your furry best friends. But what if I told you your pup’s next portrait could be so much more than just a cute image on your phone? Let’s choose one of the amazing locations in this beautiful area we live to make your pup’s portraits extra special.

Imagine this: Your beloved pup, basking in the golden glow of a beach sunset, with the salty breeze tousling their fur. Or perhaps your majestic dog perched regally amidst a field of vibrant sunflowers, their eyes sparkling with joy. These aren’t just ordinary pet portraits; they’re breathtaking works of art that showcase your pet’s personality amidst the the stunning beauty of nature.

Here at Donna Kelliher Photography, I offer a wide variety of unique pet portrait experiences designed to bring out your pet’s inner superstar and create the perfect artwork to grace your home.

Dog photograph hanging on the wall in a home from Donna Kelliher Photography.

Which session location is perfect for you and your dog? Let me know in the comments.


Beach Bliss: Capture the carefree spirit of your dog with a session on the picturesque shores of our local beaches. Here we have room to run and pose among tide pools and the grassy dunes. The sound of crashing waves, the soft sand beneath their paws, and the playful glint in their eyes will create an unforgettable portrait.

Rescue, mixed breed dog photographed at Wingaersheek beach in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Locations option

Woodland Wonderland: Embrace the beauty of nature with a session in the one of the many gorgeous woodlands that New England is graced with. The lush greenery, mossy boulders, lakes and ponds provide so many gorgeous options for your dog’s portraits.

locations: Pug photographed in Massachusetts in a garden in Carlisle, Massachusetts

Blooming Fields: Capture the essence of summer with a session in a field bursting with wildflowers. Your pup can frolic amidst a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a joyful portrait that you will love during those cold winter months.

a husky in a field of wildflowers for a dog photography session with Donna Kelliher

Urban Adventure: Maybe your dog prefers brunch at the Seaport over romping in the muddy woods. For the city pup let’s capture their spirit with a session in the vibrant streets of Boston. Boston has it all – beautiful brick buildings, historic landmarks, gardens, parks and fountains – all perfect for the city dog’s session. With the energy of the city we will create gorgeous artwork of your dog’s lifestyle for your home.

Locations: Dog photographed in Boston's Public Garden by Boston dog photographer, Donna Kelliher Photography

Looking for something even more extraordinary? These Limited Time session locations are even more special because of the short time we can capture their beauty 🌷🌻🌷

Tulip Time Extravaganza: For a limited time only, capture your pet’s playful spirit amidst a vibrant field of blooming tulips. The kaleidoscope of colors creates truly unique and joyful portraits.


Lavender Fields Forever: Immerse yourselves in the aromatic embrace of a lavender field for a truly unforgettable session. The beautiful rows of purple blooms will create a stunning backdrop for your pet’s portrait, while the calming scent will put them at ease.


Sunflowers in Bloom: Capture the sunny spirit of your dog with a session in a field of sunflowers. These cheerful giants will create a vibrant and joyful backdrop for your pet’s portrait, guaranteed to make you smile.

Cane Corso and small white mixed breed photographed at School Street Sunflowers during their session with Donna Kelliher Photography in Newburyport, Massachusetts


These are just a few of the many creative options I offer to make your pet’s portrait session an unforgettable experience. Contact me today to discuss your vision and let’s create a masterpiece that celebrates the unique bond between you and your furry friend!

So where is the perfect place for YOUR dog’s session?

Woofs 🐾

Donna

Because YOUR dog isn’t “just a dog”


P.S. Don’t forget to follow me on social media for sneak peeks of recent sessions and exciting announcements about upcoming special portrait sessions!

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An Awesome Adventure: My Professional Portrait Session At The Water

Woof woof! Hey there, fellow doggos! It’s me, your favorite canine companion, here to share the tail-wagging adventure I had recently. You see, my pawrents surprised me with a wet and wild professional portrait session playing in the water 💦💧

As soon as we arrived at the picturesque pond, I could feel the excitement bubbling up inside me. The air was filled with the scent of fresh grass and the sound of gentle ripples in the water. My tail wagged furiously as I bounded around, taking in the sights and smells of this new and exciting place.

My photographer, Donna, greeted me with a warm smile and lots of ear scritches. She explained that today, we were going to HAVE FUN and capture some truly special moments together in this beautiful spot. I couldn’t wait to get started!

As we headed towards the lake I got to scramble over boulders and tree limbs and show off my posing skills. Then we reached the water where I eagerly dipped my paws into the cool, refreshing water. Donna captured some paw-sitively adorable shots of me splashing around and chasing after my ball. There was something exhilarating about the sensation of the water against my fur, and I couldn’t resist the urge to dive in and paddle around like a champ. My humans laughed and cheered me on as I frolicked in the water, feeling happy and free.

Next, we explored the lush greenery surrounding the pond, pausing to pose for photos amidst the tall grass and wildflowers. With the sun shining down on us, I couldn’t help but feel like a supermodel, striking my best poses for the camera.

But the highlight of the session came when we ventured out onto a rustic wooden dock that stretched out over the water. With the wind in my fur and the sun on my face, I felt like I was on top of the world. The photographer captured some truly breathtaking shots of me gazing out over the shimmering expanse of water and then I GOT TO JUMP IN!!!!! I now have images of my superhero persona flying through the air!

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we knew it was time to wrap up our adventure. But as we made our way back to the car, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the memories we had created together.

So, to all my fellow furry friends out there, I encourage you to beg your mom and dad for a super fun portrait session of your very own. They’ll be glad they did when they see those magical images from your day hanging on the walls of your home.

Framed Artwork from a dog photography session by Donna Kelliher Photography.

Until next time, keep wagging those tails and chasing those dreams!

Woofs and wags

Celebrating the “Perfectly Imperfect”: A Dog Photographer’s Perspective

Let’s face it, perfection is overrated. And impossible to achieve. Our dogs are so lucky, they don’t lay awake at night brooding over the extra pound they’re carrying or that mom isn’t too happy that they rolled in that slightly smelly thing in the yard. They’ve embraced their perfectly imperfect status 💖

I’ve had the privilege of capturing all kinds of tail-wagging mayhem in my 15+ years as a professional pet photographer. From dogs who will try to convince you that they’ve NEVER heard the word “sit” before to those who’ve mastered the art of zoomies. And guess what? It’s precisely these quirks that make our four-legged friends such rockstars! And why I have the best job in the world!


Real-life Moments, Real-life Love

In my sessions, perfection takes a back seat to authenticity. I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless moments that encapsulate the quirky, wild, and wonderfully imperfect nature of our canine companions. It’s these unique qualities that make each dog a star in their own right.

From the dogs who treat “stay” like a distant relative and others who believe “fetch” is just a fancy game of keep-away. Forget the script – it’s the unscripted chaos that steals the show.

Championing the Unpredictable

A session without unpredictability is like a hotdog without mustard – bland and missing the kick. The goofy expressions, the sudden sprints, and the little bit of naughtiness make for images that aren’t just pictures; they’re a storybook of a canine’s character.

Let’s bark down those stereotypes that say a “perfect” dog fits a certain mold. In my world, every dog is a superstar, whether they’re a drama queen, a goofball, or the class clown.

So many potential clients feel they have to wait until their dog is “better behaved”, or can be off-leash or “calms down”. And none of those are true. Almost none of the dogs I have photographed in my career are obedience stars or even had much training at all. Most of them are “perfectly imperfect” – great dogs who occasionally raid the trash or chew a shoe or run off in the middle of a session after a rabbit 🐰.

photograph of two perfectly imperfect golden retrievers at a park in Rhode Island during a portrait session with dog photographer Donna Kelliher Photography

They’re dogs! They’re expected to act like dogs – be a little (or a LOT) crazy, pull on leash, bark their fool heads off just “because”. I didn’t get into this career to photograph robots (I don’t trust robots, even robot dogs, tell me that “dog” will cuddle with you on the couch… ). Your session will be one of laughter, action and slobbery kisses. So don’t wait to schedule a session for your pet – let’s capture all the chaos that makes you love them so much.

Your Dog is Perfect for the Camera – Just as They Are

To all the awesome pet parents out there, your dog is a star in the making – no auditions required. No need to wait for the stars to align or for your furry friend to become a canine Einstein. So, here’s to celebrating the perfectly imperfect, embracing the mayhem, and capturing the essence of your furry partner in crime. Ready? Let’s turn your furry rockstar into a frame-worthy legend.

dog photography artwork by Massachusetts dog photographer, Donna Kelliher Photography.

Here’s to the tail-wagging, tongue-lolling, laughter-inducing journey of photographing your unapologetically awesome canine buddies. 📸🐶

Donna


Have a reactive or really shy dog? Click here to read a blog on how I design special sessions just for them. Focusing on their comfort and safety at all times.

Unleash the Magic: Capturing Stunning Winter Pet Portraits this Season

It’s WINTER! Ok, not technically yet, but with it getting dark at 4:30 in the afternoon and the frost I’m scraping off my windshield in the morning, I’m declaring winter officially here. And you know what’s great about this time of year? It’s perfect for a portrait session for your dog. No, I’m not crazy and I know what you’re thinking, “but it’s cold and dreary, I just want to stay inside with my cup of cocoa ( or glass of wine) and good book (or Netflix)”. But hear me out and let me give you a few awesome reasons to get layered up and out to create amazing winter pet portraits with your best pup!

Now, drumroll please, my top three amazing winter portrait options for your consideration.


Beach Sessions: A Different Kind of Winter Magic

I know what you’re thinking, THE BEACH, IN JANUARY???? YES! The beach is my favorite location in the winter. There are no restrictions to dogs being there and it isn’t crowded with all those pesky humans. And it’s gorgeous no matter the season, so the artwork we create will feature the lovely neutral, natural tones of the sand and water to complement any decor

Plus it’s FUN! On the beach your dog can run, chase the waves and roll in the sand. They can pose among the dune grasses and on the boulders by the water’s edge. We’ll create gorgeous images of your pup while you’re both having a blast.


Urban Winter Pet Portrait Sessions: For the Sophisticated City Pup

Even in winter we can find so much beauty in more urban locales. City parks, streets adorned with holiday lights, and iconic urban landmarks can provide a captivating backdrop for pet photography. Think the Boston Skyline, the Seaport and the cobbled streets of Back Bay to incorporate the vibrant energy of the city into your session.

French bulldog in front of the Boston skyline from the Seaport

Snow Sessions: Frolicking in the Winter Wonderland

Imagine your pet surrounded by a pristine white landscape, with snow-covered trees and glistening fields as the backdrop. The serene beauty of the snow makes for magical portraits. Picture your dog with snowflakes gently resting on their nose or their paw prints leading through the snowy terrain. These one-of-a-kind images tell a story of winter wonder.

Snow sessions also brings out the playful puppy in almost every dog. Capturing their joy catching snowflakes and bounding through the white powder will create images that are priceless.

Since snow can be very elusive, I have a waiting list of clients who want snow sessions. Click here to be added to my list.


The best part of winter sessions is that popular outdoor locations are much quieter and less crowded during the winter months. This means a more relaxed session, especially if you have a pup who needs a bit more space or less noise and activity to feel comfortable.

So, let’s embrace the season, bundle up and create some winter magic. Let’s capture the joy, playfulness, and coziness of winter, creating memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

Have questions, check out my FAQ page or contact me. And let’s plan a fun winter session for you and your pup.

Fall in Love with Fall Pet Photography🍁🐶🍂

Senior golden retriever and golden retriever puppy during a fall pet photography session.

While every season has its charm, New England in Fall is truly magical. As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air fills our lungs, there’s no better time to celebrate the extraordinary bond between you and your furry friends. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves mirror the warmth and love that exists between you and your beloved dog. We’ll capture your dog’s joy romping in the falling leaves and the two of you cuddling amidst the autumn beauty.

If these are the heartwarming memories you want to preserve, you’re in the right place. Our pets are our family and the source of endless joy in our lives. My fall pet photography sessions are designed to create stunning artwork that will adorn your home and celebrate the love you share with your dog.

Labrador Retriever photographed in the autumn woods during a fall pet photography session with Donna Kelliher Photography

Why You Should Book a Fall Pet Photography Session with Me 🍁

Unwavering Dedication

Just like the love you have for your dogs, my dedication to capturing their essence is unwavering. Your story is unique, and so is your relationship with your dog. I take the time to understand your bond and create a session that reflects your personalities, ensuring your images are not just photos but pieces of art that speak to your hearts.

Timeless Beauty

The fall season provides a backdrop of breathtaking beauty that perfectly complements your style and decor. With the vibrant foliage and soft, golden light, we’ll capture moments that stand the test of time, allowing you to relive them for years to come.

Simple Process

Your life is super busy and I understand that. I work to make the entire process simple and seamless, from booking to the session to delivery of your final artwork. You can expect an easy and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Professional Artistry

With over 15 years working exclusively as a dog photographer, I not only capture beautiful images but also transform them into works of art. I believe your pet deserves a place of honor on your wall, just like any other cherished family member.

The Finest Products Available

I offer a wide variety of artwork and albums created by the finest, professional-only labs in the world. I will help you create the perfect display to showcase your pet’s beauty and the love you share in your home.

This fall, I invite you to invest in an extraordinary experience that celebrates your dogs and the life you’ve built together. It’s a chance to immortalize the companionship, loyalty, and love that fills your home. Limited spots are available, so don’t delay. Secure your session now and let’s capture the beauty of fall together.

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Treasure These Fleeting Summer Days with Dog Portraits 😎🌻🐶

The memories we capture will keep you warm all winter.

Imagine the scene – it’s a beautiful cool morning, with blue skies and white puffy clouds. A field of summer wildflowers and a stunning husky. All the elements for the perfect summer portrait session. But first Zoey decided we all needed a good laugh and went into huntress mode and hopped and pounced (unsuccessfully) on unseen critters all over the field. She was so happy! I absolutely 💖 huskies, they have such a wicked sense of humor. Thankfully, once Zoey had cleared the area of any menacing chipmunks she was ready to rock her portrait session!

a husky amid summer wildflowers at Minuteman Park during a summer portrait session with Donna Kelliher Photography

Zoey’s Mom knew that now is the ideal moment to capture beautiful summer portraits of your best pup! The crazy rain has stopped (for the moment) and left us with absolutely lush green everywhere. Add in blooming wildflowers (the black eyed susans are stunning right now) and we have a fantastic backdrop for creating stunning images. Imagine seeing a image like this of your dog on your wall every day. How could that not bring a smile to your face 😊

For those water-crazy dogs and those HOT summer days, I have the perfect location. This will be a FUN session with lots of splashing, swimming and retrieving fun. And I’m not afraid to get a little wet to capture your pup creating big waves. You will love these dynamic, action portraits (and love looking at them during the cold, dark months of winter). This was one seriously HAPPY dog during her session last week 🌊🐶💦

dog photographer, Donna Kelliher Photography, standing in the river photographing swimming dogs in North Reading, MA
Dog splashing in Ipswich River, Massachusetts during pet portrait session with Donna Kelliher Photography, the Greater Boston Pet Photographer

Summer portraits are all about these fun, outdoor adventures. Your pup can run freely, splash around in ponds and streams, and be their true, happy self. All safely on a long leash, if the law and your dog’s personality require . And with my Photoshop magic no one will ever know they weren’t running wild and free. These photos will be like little memory capsules of all the fun times you’ve shared under the sun.

Mixed-breed dog running at Heard Farm, Massachusetts during pet portrait session with Donna Kelliher Photography, the Greater Boston Pet Photographer

But remember, summer’s a short and sweet season. Those wildflowers🌻 won’t bloom forever, and the golden hour light is here only for a while. So, let’s not wait! Drop me a message, and together, we’ll plan a photo session that your dog will love and that will give you priceless artwork to treasure. Your pet’s summer adventure awaits! 🌞🐾

Have questions? Check out my FAQ page

Want to know more about my sessions? Grab my Session Guide.

Photography for your reactive dog, capturing the joy

Are you a pet parent with a reactive dog? Or one who’s very shy or anxious? Would you love to have beautiful artwork of your beloved pet in your home but are worried about how your dog would behave during a portrait session? Whether the photographer could even work with your dog? Or even worse, would judge you for your dog’s behavior?

Today, I want to share with you why choosing a pet photographer who understands reactive, shy or anxious dogs can make a world of difference in creating a stress-free and truly remarkable experience. I’m a pet photographer and positive dog trainer. I have decades of personal experience living with and training reactive, shy and anxious dogs. I understand the challenges you face because I’ve lived them. Let me share with you why choosing a photographer who has a lot of experience working with scared and reactive dogs is the best decision for capturing unforgettable moments with your best friend.

This was my super sound-sensitive, reactive girl, Ziva. She taught me so much and made me not only a better dog trainer, but a better pet photographer. She was flight risk, so our sessions were always ON LEASH and in quiet locations.

A reactive dog being photographed on a quiet Massachusetts beach during a pet portrait session.

So what do you and your dog need in a pet photographer?

1. Empathy and Understanding for your Reactive Dog’s Needs

Reactive dogs require extra patience, care, and sensitivity. Working with a pet photographer who owns and works with reactive dogs ensures they empathize with your situation. I understand the unique challenges and can create a safe, stress-free environment for your furry friend to relax and be themselves. This leads to authentic and remarkable images that truly reflect your pet’s personality.

2. Specialized Techniques to Keep Everyone Safe and Happy

Photographing reactive, shy or anxious dogs requires a specialized approach. My experience with positive reinforcement techniques, redirection strategies and body language cues will keep your dog calm and comfortable during the session. This expertise guarantees stunning photos even with super “challenging” dogs.

3. Safe and Controlled Environment that Protects your Reactive Dog

When you choose a pet photographer who understands reactive dogs, you’re selecting someone who prioritizes the safety and well-being of your pet above all else. I will take the necessary precautions to create a controlled environment, minimizing triggers and potential stressors. Your pet’s safety and comfort is paramount. I’ll design your session with your dog’s safety and comfort in mind – from selecting a suitable, quiet location, letting your dog set the pace and allowing your dog to be securely leashed for their entire session (with leashes magically edited out for your final artwork).

4. Collaboration and Customization to Design your Perfect Session

Working with a photographer who understands reactive dogs means collaborating with someone who values your input. I listen to your concerns, preferences, and goals, and tailor the experience to your dog’s needs. Your dog always comes first during our session. This ensures that the photos reflect your dog’s individuality and personality. We capture the dog you know they are inside, not the sometimes stressed, reactive dog that the world sometimes sees.

Remember, capturing these precious moments with your dog is not just about the final images but the joy and memories that come with them. So, don’t hesitate to seek out a pet photographer who not only has the technical skills but also firsthand experience with reactive dogs. They will go above and beyond to ensure your pet feels comfortable, loved and is beautifully captured in each and every photograph. And you will have beautiful artwork from your day that will bring you joy every time you look at it.

Would you like more information about designing the perfect session for your dog? You can check out my Session Guide for more information or Contact Me for more information.