Photographing dogs in their own domain is always an option. In fact, for senior or reactive pups, I highly recommend it. Photographing in the home poses a unique set of challenges photographically – but I always find the images captured are full of meaning and texture. Such was the case for Sadie and Etta's photo shoot.
When I arrived on a beautiful summer evening, the house was alive with energy. Sam, a spirited toddler, was running circles around the house while giggling/screaming joyfully. Sadie and Etta eagerly tapped around me looking for my stash of treats while Nora and I chatted about photography as I unpacked my gear. It was pure chaos, in the best possible way.
Going into this shoot I knew Sadie, a beautiful 14 yr old black and white pittie mix, was slowing down. She was my focus as I watched life circle around her. I watched was Etta used Sadie's calm energy to soothe her anxiety – which most likely stems from her past life as a stray in North Carolina. I watched as Nora, a regular foster parent for a myriad of kitties and pups, found a few quiet moments with her special girl. And how Sam, in his own toddler way, showed affection for his animal siblings.
The shoot had brief moments of calm amidst the liveliness of their home. I left unsure of what had just happened but as I edited through the images, I could only smile. The texture, energy and beauty of their world was present and these photographs are some of my favorites from the year.
