This photo is special for many reasons. It was a rainy, misty, dreary day. Not a day that you would think of going out to do a portrait session. But, Meatball was a special dog, and Dina, his owner, was eager to get the photos done because she was concerned about his health, and how long she might have with him. So, despite the weather, we went on as planned. Except for one thing. The plan was to do the session at one of my favorite parks – so we were to meet there. When I arrived and took one look at Meatball, I knew I had to go to somewhere else….the tracks. Since there wasn’t any sun, and the weather was already questionable, time wasn’t really an issue. So, Dina loaded Meatball (and Delilah) back into the car and we headed for the train tracks.

To say that Meatball was strong and energetic is an understatement. For most of the sitting, Dina held tight to his leash as he struggled to run over to see me – or tromple over me to get to the toy that Eryn was holding. Finally we ventured up the very steep hill onto the tracks. We took a few photos, and then positioned Meatball on the tracks and asked him to sit. To all of our surprise, he sat. And sat, and sat. He sat so well, that I asked Dina to drop his leash. A few squeaky voice sounds later and VOILA, this photo was created. As I got up off the tracks (filthy from head to toe) I thanked Meatball profusely for what he had just given me.

Honestly, I really think he knew exactly what he was doing. He knew it was his moment and he made it work.

For me, this image represents so much. A moment in time that I will remember forever, an amazing dog with an incredible spirit, and a heart and soul that will live on in this photo.

I have entered this image of Meatball in PDN’s Faces contest. I would be honored if you would click here, and go to the page and vote!

Thank you for reading Meatball’s photo story, and for {hopefully} voting!!

Oh, and for anyone who might be wondering…this was shot on Fuji Neopan 1600 black and white film….my favorite film of all time.

It was a beautiful evening when I met up with David, Leoncia, Sasha and Riley for our session. It was a new location for me, and that is always exciting. The evening was perfect; amazing light, adorable dogs, and the cutest couple ever! Who could ask for anything more!

Lucy says…Happy Friday Face!

Every so often, when I get a roll of film back, I’m scanning the negs and an image appears that kinda takes my breath away. Over the years there have been quite a few that did that. That’s one of the beautiful things about shooting film. I see the image in my viewfinder for that 100th or 250th of a second as I capture the image, but I’m never 100% certain how the film will interpret it. And then, while I wait for the film to be processed, I forget exactly what I captured on the film verses what I captured digitally. So, when the processed film shows up at my door, I am anxious to see what little surprises I will find.

This week’s face was just one such surprise. This is Sapphire. You may remember Glow, the beautiful Champion who (among a few other amazing corsos) represented the newly recognized AKC breed at Westminster this past February. Sapphire is Glow’s mom. And, in this image, I find her expression so interesting. There’s no doubt that Glow is completely stunning and she tends to get “most” of the attention. However, in this moment, it was all about Sapphire. But, I somehow can’t help but think that she was saying to me, “She’s right behind me isn’t she? I thought this was my moment!”

Or, I could be wrong! You decide for yourself!

But, whatever the caption…

Happy Friday Face!

It was a very chilly morning when I photographed Zoe. But, she’s a lab, so the cold didn’t bother her. I love how the sun is shining on her beautiful black fur. It makes her look all fuzzy!

Happy Friday Fuzzy Face!

I have wanted to post this image for ages. It’s different, that’s for sure. I was using a treat to get their attention. I think it was too much for Toni to bare, because all of the sudden he sprang right up at me! It happened so fast that no one expected it. But, thank goodness that somehow, I managed to click the shutter!

So, let’s call this one…Happy Friday Face and other parts!

Two cuties on a table. Jinx and Daphne. They are so soft, cuddly, and cute as buttons.

Happy Friday Faces!

Today is a big exciting day at Westminster. It is the day that two of my clients hit the ring to strut their stuff. I am so excited for them, and their owners. I also feel very honored to have photographed each one of these Champions! It’s no secret that I love the Cane Corso breed. They are gorgeous dogs, with wonderful personalities.

A few years ago I met Ron Hoser and Jen Molchan of FireHorse Cane Corso and began a wonderful client/friend relationship. I have photographed many of their dogs from puppy to adult. We have had lots of fun during our sessions, and most recently, spent a day in the city with three of their dogs. One of which is hitting the Westminster Show ring today….in less than an hour!

He is CH. FireHorse Dorian, TDI, CGC. He is big, he is gorgeous, and he is pretty much a mush. His expression says it all. He is as about as laid back as they come.

|Dorian|

A few months ago, I met and photographed Glow (Multi. Ch. PrideNJoyz Afterglow, GCG, TDI) and her owner/breeder Krissy Sauers. Glow is Dorian’s half sister. They actually do look like siblings. Glow’s personality is a bit more “girlish” though. She is sweet, and (if this word fits a corso) extremely cute!

|Glow|

Both Glow and Dorian have been doing extremely well in the show rings – taking them by storm!

The Cane Corso is one of the new breeds for AKC this year, and it is so exciting that these two beautiful dogs are at Westminster right now representing this wonderful breed.

Go Dorian!!!!!
Go Glow!!!!

I am sending winning wishes to both of you!!!!

First let me give you a Timmy update! He’s home. His strong will and spirit have not been broken! The surgery went well, and his recovery is beginning. When he was picked up at the hospital, and he saw his human grandmom, he grabbed his leash..in his mouth, and wagged his tail as if to say, “come on, let’s go!” It will be a long process for Timmy, but he is up for the challenge! He had even started to try to move his legs shortly after his surgery. Please keep sending good thoughts his way!

Second, at the top of the page, I added a link to my Facebook Fan page! Hop on over for visit, and become a fan! Thanks!

Now, on to this week’s face. Oriental Shorthairs come in hundreds of colors and patterns. Some say they are Siamese in designer jeans. But, I’d like to add one thing to that…with bigger ears. Orientals have large ears, and when they are kittens, it seems as though their ears are even larger.

Here is a little baby boy, just 5 weeks old. His color is simple, yet very elegant. White.

Happy Friday Ears!!

I met and photographed Timmy a little over three years ago. He was a pleasure to photograph. He is one happy, silly, crazy adorable dog. Timmy brings joy to anyone he meets.

Right now, Timmy needs some good healing wishes and prayers sent his way, as he is in the hospital awaiting tomorrow’s surgery. Last week it was discovered that he has 3 herniated discs and has lost the ability to walk. A few treatments were tried, but there was no change in Timmy’s condition. So tomorrow he will have surgery in the hopes of releasing the pressure which is compressing his vertebrae. If the surgery is successful, he may just walk out of the hospital.

According to Lynne, Timmy’s human mom, his spirit has not faded. He is still as happy and enthusiastic as ever. He has a very strong will, and hopefully, that, along with a little help from a wonderful surgeon, will have him walking again.

So, please just say a small prayer, or send a wish for a successful surgery for Timmy.

Good luck, Timmy. I know I’ll be thinking about you.