When I first started out doing pet photography, my mindset was of I love animals, and I love photography–why not combine the two? I get to play with super cute, adorable and quirky pets, AND be creative. What I didn’t realize is how much deeper my work goes, how emotional and meaningful it can get, especially when a pet is old or it’s time to say good-bye. To know that what I do, can bring comfort and joy to their owners, inspires me to strive to be better as a photographer and keeps me passionate about what I do. This is probably the most fulfilling job that I could have ever dreamed of, even with all of the highs and the lows.

Late last month I photographed Summer, a sweet and intelligent German Shepherd, who was diagnosed with cancer. Sadly, not too shortly after we had our photo session, she crossed over the doggy rainbow. Two hours may not seem like a very long time to spend with a dog, but it was long enough for me to fall in love with her one eye that cried every time she smelled/saw a delish treat (mine must have been pretty delicious because her eye was constantly pouring, and her mom and dad had to get a towel to wipe her face. you can kind of tell in some of the following photos), and her insane love of playing with the water coming out of the garden hose.

Summer lived a wonderful life and brought so much love and joy to her parents. I am so sorry for your loss, and I feel fortunate to have been able to meet and photograph her.