Archer and Collins at Vizsla Nationals

I attended Vizsla Nationals this year in WA and had the chance to slip in a photoshoot with Vortex Vizslas. Not only were they both pros at showing, they are beautiful fun dogs that were SO well trained to stay put for photos. Archer and Collins were photographed at a farm they were renting and I was welcomed to bring Whiskey and Bourbon to have a run. W&B even slipped into a couple group dog shots! We all had such a blast and I was so thankful everyone had enough energy to keep shooting until the magical light went away behind the trees.

Photographer Meetup with The Good Mutt

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A week ago I met up with the very talented Andrea, The Good Mutt. She takes the most wonderful dog portraits in the Fraser Valley and I wanted to see her work! We met between our locations (I’m in Squamish, BC) and settled for Golden Ears sunrise. Amazingly the dog friendly North Beach was empty for sunrise and we had the entire place to ourselves.

For a clear sunny morning, we were very lucky to be graced with a couple low hanging clouds that quickly dispersed while we snapped away. It was a chance for me to see my dogs under a different photographer’s eyes and for me to photograph another photographer. If you’re around the Fraser Valley and would like your dogs photographed, do check out a very talented and wonderful person, Andrea.

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Senior/End of Life Pet Photography Session in Vancouver

As a dog owner, you know pets are more than just pets. They’re a member of the family that unfortunately do not have as long lives as we do. When the time comes that you know your years, months, and days may be limited, saying goodbye can be one of the most difficult things we will ever do. Senior pet photography is so important to capture the memories and I was so grateful to be chosen to capture Aiko.

I’ve been photographing Aiko for years and although there was no terminal illness, we wanted to capture her while she was still mobile and happy. We went back to one of her favorite places, the beach, and took loads of time to get wide shots, close ups and photos with her family. I also made sure I spent lots of time photographing the new puppy Roan who was extremely photogenetic and willing to pose.

When it comes to end of life photography, quality is key. There are very little chances for a re-do and spending the time to work with compassion is so important. We took it slow, moved to areas that Aiko was happier and she was so happy to keep working for photos. For a dog that doesn’t normally love to be photographed, we ended up staying extra long because she kept jumping in front of the camera and was looking so happy. She’s got such a unique personality with an interesting past, very independent and opinionated yet loves her family and the attention they give her.

How to Choose a Photographer in Whistler for your Family Photos

Whistler is a beautiful destination for families who love nature, adventure and fun. Whether you live here or are visiting, you might want to capture some memorable moments with your loved ones with professional photos. While I specialize in a particular style of shooting (very little formal posing, relaxed family walk, focused on pets and children, high quality stills), there are many other options out there in all different budgets and skillsets.

But how do you choose a photographer in Whistler who can meet your needs and expectations? Here are some tips to help you find the right one for your family photos:

Check their portfolio: The first thing you should do is look at their previous work and see if you like their style, quality and creativity. You can browse their website, social media or online galleries to get a sense of their photography skills and personality. Some photographers specialize in certain types of photography, such as weddings, events, portraits or landscapes. Make sure they have experience in shooting families and can handle different lighting conditions and locations.

Reach out and see if you’re a good fit: Send an email or reach out by social media and evaluate the photographer’s professionalism, communication style, friendliness, flexibility and availability. Sometimes photographers book far in advance so it’s good to see who might be available especially if you’re thinking of session next week.

Compare their prices: Of course, you also need to consider your budget when choosing a photographer in Whistler. Prices may vary depending on factors such as the duration of the session, the number of photos delivered, the editing process and the travel expenses. You should ask for a quote from different photographers and compare what they offer for the same price range. Don't forget to ask about any hidden fees or extra charges that may apply. Many times your session can be very affordable but it will not include a single photo. Those will need to be purchased “a la carte” sometimes at a much much higher rate than the initial session.

Speak on the phone or meet them in person: Finally, you should meet your potential photographer in person before booking them for your family photos. This will give you an opportunity to discuss your vision, preferences and expectations with them face-to-face. You can also get a feel of their personality and see if you click with them. A good photographer should be friendly, attentive and respectful of your wishes.

If you follow these tips, you will be able to choose a photographer in Whistler who can capture your family's essence and create beautiful memories for you.

Pet Portraits in Vancouver and Squamish

Are you looking for the highest quality pet portraits to keep forever? Scroll down to see photos capturing the spirit of dogs and cats rendered in bright colors perfect to print for your wall. With outdoor background and natural lighting, these photos are taken with love, patience, understanding and care.

Cats and Puppies may seem very difficult to capture but I’ve been doing this for years and patience is key! I will take the amount of time your pet needs to feel comfortable and am happy to meet for several small sessions. With all kinds of backdrops right in our home, I’m more than willing to travel to parks, lakes, even hike up for the right background. Let create memories together

Cat Photographer Vancouver

Cat photography is extremely difficult especially outside. I love the challenge of capturing these very wild pets and their personalities. Every twitch responding to sound, every blink meaning so much. Indoor or outdoors, I’m happy to crawl on my knees around with a wand or a ribbon or just follow your cat for as long as it takes to get the photo. For years I’ve been a photographer for rescues so I’ve had the challenge of photographing timid rescue kittens and cats for adoption so I’m pretty well versed in patience and claws.

The difficulties of photographing cats outside.

Safety is the number one concern. Many of the photos below had harnesses removed in post, and even with harnesses and leashes I only photograph cats outside that have a history of being comfortable outdoors. Some cats we’ve let out of harnesses but only after a period of adjustment to the location. Walking cats or posing them is totally different to dogs so overall we will get a smaller number of usable shots than a dog shoot, however I like to think these are all the more stunning!

Preparing for a Cat Photo Session

I will come to wherever your cat is most comfortable to shoot. If possible I would suggest you take your cat out in the location the week before (and/or as much as possible) and let them roam and sniff so that it isn’t new and they are used to the sounds. We will aim for the most quiet time to shoot and if we are using treats, please don’t feed your cat beforehand. Use a thin harness that can be removed in post, or if you’re ok with the harness in the shots, whatever harness you feel most comfortable in. A thin black retractable leash is ideal to blend in with the background, and a carrier to carry your cat to and from the location. Lastly the highest value treats you can get your hands on are ideal!

Pricing for a family or Pet Photo Session

All photoshoots include high resolution images for your own use. Some photographers price their shoots separately than images, with me you will receive all the photos fully edited to share and print as you please. I can also arrange for printing on archival paper, canvas, acyclic from a professional printing house in the US if you would like.

My photoshoots should feel like you’re out for a walk with a friend that really likes taking photos. It will be casual and easy-going, no crazy posing or awkwardness. Just be yourself on a walk and bring your family! I shoot pets, children and animals as my focus, so I expect dirt, doggy kisses, tantrums, and crawling in dirt.

Extras- locations more than 30 mins (one way) from my location in Squamish will have an extra fee, difficult locations (backcountry, on mountain peaks) are more than welcome but will also incur a fee for time and/gas, if a pet/child has a full breakdown (and shuts down), we can reshoot for free but there will be a minimal charge

Mini Sessions are predetermined dates with timeslots and a short time to shoot, Please inquire if I have upcoming days

Full family sessions are dedicated to capturing your family

Family and Pet Session- Single Session

• 1 family unit (2 dogs, 2 people for example)

• Shooting will depend on weather

• Your choice of location

• Time will be divided as you see fit between number of pets and family members

• 1-2 hour shooting time, breaks as needed, time for zoomies or tantrums

• 25-40 Full Resolution Edited Images for your own use

$750+

Double or multiple sessions like this one (4 sessions) capture a huge variety of places, moods, clothing, and ideas.

Family and Pet Session- Double Session

• 1-2 family units (ie 3 dogs, 4 people)

• 2 locations for variety to capture golden hours and short attention spans

• Shooting will depend on weather

• 1-2 hour shooting time x 2, or half day shoot between two locations with break between

• 40-60 Full Resolution Edited Images for your own use

$1000+

What Should you Wear for a Family Photoshoot Session?

I always advise my clients to dress simple, comfortable, and neutral. You’re investing in images to keep forever so don’t follow any fashion trends and go for something classic. Avoid shirts with large logos or writing, and go with soft materials. Comfort is really important because you’ll be moving, walking, and need to look relaxed. It can also be nice to bring an extra sweater or shirt if you’re not sure, or want a quick clothing change!

Look at images you like online and think about your background. You don’t want to contrast too much, for instance black on snow becomes really flat and stark. Blending in should also be avoided, for instance green jackets with forest, or sandy colored pants on the beach. Talk to the other members of your family and plan your outfits together, they do not need to match, but should be similarly themed.

New Puppy Photography Session in Squamish

One of my favorite things is to take photos of a brand new puppy. The joy! The absolute craziness of shooting puppies is something I specialize in. Families with new puppies should capture their new member as soon as they can because puppies grow up way too fast and it’s quite impossible to take puppy photos without an expert! Shot in Squamish, BC just an hour away from Vancouver, we met for over an hour and got the cutest images of Sencha with her new family. All the high resolution images are included with the shoot but I can also help print photos using a professional printer in the US only accessed by businesses.

Adventure Cat Photography in North Vancouver

Michiko is a very special kitty. She’s an adventure cat that likes to go for walks in her neighborhood. When I was asked to capture her exploring I was so excited. We lined up two quick shoots (cats have very little patience for human photographers) and followed Michiko around. For a kitty, this was one of the easiest shoots I had. Michiko was very calm and happy to stay still where placed and loved looking around with her beautiful eyes.

Cat photography is really chancy and sometimes the cat just isn’t in the mood. It’s the excitement of never knowing what we may capture that makes my heart pump! Outdoor Adventure cat Photography may be one of the most difficult subject matters but when you do capture the images, wow! They speak for themselves!

Orijen Dog Amazing Grains Shoot

I was asked to help shoot alongside a video commercial shoot for Orijen’s Amazing Grains Campaign. Because there would be canine talent already booked, there were opportunities to capture stills for Orijen’s other uses. The final video is shown below.

Orijen Amazing Grains Pet Ad

During the 2 day shoot over Squamish and Coquitlam (greater Vancouver, BC) , I was able to pull aside the canine talent and shoot loads of stills. Here’s some I took,

Travelling to Vail as a Pet and Family Photographer

Will I travel to shoot your family and pets? Absolutely! I love discovering new places and finding the light in beautiful locations. I’m more than happy to drive for days or fly out of country to shoot something special. If it’s hard to come to me, I’m more than happy to come to you. Shooting pets and family are specialties that can be very hard to find. Outdoor photography is already a pain with the ever changing weather, lighting, and locations so you must be quick on your feet and able to read the light quickly. With dogs, especially two quick moving Vizslas, it can be even harder to capture the right moments!

Most dogs are not trained for photography and may not be comfortable with a camera. The more time we have together, the slower I can introduce the camera and work on training for photos. When I travelled to Vail to shoot a lovely family, I made sure we had many smaller photo sessions as dogs (and humans!) tire of photos quickly. We shot every sunset and sunrise for several days and had a ton of fun doing so! Here are the results,

Family and pet shoot on the Sea to Sky

We had been in contact for months and finally found a perfect day! Pancho the Vizsla and his family met with me on the Sea to Sky Highway to shoot the most beautiful photos with the Howe Sound as a background. We found some beautiful ferns for the PNW vibe, took a couple delicate flower photos, and just had a lovely evening capturing stills. Depending on the time of year, there can be so many lovely areas to photograph and best times of the day to capture them. Sunny days lend to beautiful sunsets and cloudier days like this one, are great for capturing skin and being able to take our time.

Vancouver Pet Photography

Pet photography is such a specialized niche. Over the last decade I’ve been taking photos in Vancouver, BC and have ended up specializing in dogs, cats and their relationships with their humans. I’ve found that professional photographers who are not “dog people” can take amazing photos of dogs but the eyes look “dead” and their spirit doesn’t come through. Not everyone is up for following pets on the ground, getting jumped on, and trying over and over for the shot. I absolutely love animals and the time it takes to capture an animal’s soul

When I start a session, I like to take my time to meet the pet and get them used to the camera. We then work on a stay with a crouching human and give away handfuls of treats! Dogs that have come back to me for sessions over the years knows me as the treat lady and love photographs. There’s also lots of patience and time given for romp and zoomies, for a dog be a dog and sniff or a cat to hide under a bush.

If you’re in the Sea to Sky area or Greater Vancouve area (I’m based out of Squamish and happy to travel), I would love to photograph your pets and family. Send me a message and lets have a chat! I’d be more than happy to work with you to create a specific vision or roll in the dirt and capture images of your pet in action! In addition, I take family photos as well so come and create memories with me.

Pet Food Bag Australian Shepherd x Collie Photoshoot

I was so excited to shoot Fadwa and Omlette! This beautiful owner and Shepherd pair had been through so much together and their relation was something I was just too happy to capture for Orijen. The mission was to grab a variety of photos but to concentrate on sunset silhouette photos for upcoming dog food bags. We shot a couple locations and here’s the photos and the final product.

Images are used online, on product, and printed in stores.

North Vancouver, Squamish Puppy Photoshoot

A double session photography session is always advised if you have the time! This gives us flexibility and a variety of backgrounds and lets me organize and capture a larger amount of photos to select for finals. There’s also more time for clothing changes, and most puppies and dogs are pretty much done for photos after an hour or so of being held, staying still and being called to attention.

Maggie was the cutest puppy, super calm and happy to prance in front of the camera. It’s not always this easy but she behaved really well and only put half the beach into her mouth. We shot in two of my favorite locations along the Sea to Sky around evening/sunset time.

Squamish Couples Photography

Erica and Mark were looking for some photos to celebrate their family. They realized they hadn’t captured photos of themselves since their wedding and wanted images with them and their Ridgeback Dogs to print for their walls. We went to a quiet beach far into the Squamish valley and spent a couple hours grabbing these photos.

North Vancouver Family and Pet Photo Session

Family shoots are so rewarding! I love capturing the relationships between each family member and of course it’s always a bonus with a pup. These family photos were shot in West and North Vancouver. I loved how we got some moody lighting in November (usually the worst month for rain!). Mostly these were not posed, but easy natural captures and I was so thankful for the beautiful family and their time.