Dogs Are Family Too
The dogs we bring into our lives are our family. I know some people out there might gawk at that statement, but for me it's just the truth. Whether I’m photographing one person with their dog or a larger family with multiple dogs, I’m ultimately creating a family portrait; one that helps you to remember how you really were together in that special and brief moment in time. That’s why a dog portrait session with me always includes the dog’s humans too. Occasionally, I’ll have a human who’s a bit nervous about being awkward or shy in front of the camera lens, but we talk it through, they’re put at ease, and when they take in the results they’re always grateful to see their relationship reflected back to them.
All of this is why when a client in the SF Bay Area books a dog portrait session with me, it’s crucial that I understand and be present to who I’m honoring. I listen to your story. I spend time learning about the journeys you’ve been on together, the favorite spots in your home to be side by side, and the way it feels to be close. I try to get a peek into those glimmers; those instances of joy and safety. When the day of the photography session comes, I photograph you two or three or four or however many… as you are. I come from a more documentary approach, so I give space and lots of patience for the moments to happen organically. It’s a gift to behold and make art based on such authenticity and love.
I have photographed dogs with their humans in San Francisco, Marin County, Berkeley, Albany, Oakland, and beyond. No matter where I go or who makes up the group dynamic, every family that I have been lucky enough to photograph so far, has shown me their fierce love, gentle hearts, and powerful joy. What a blessing to get to know these packs. If you’re thinking now might be the time to find a dog photographer in the SF Bay Area to celebrate your bond, please don’t hesitate to contact me here to learn more about how photography sessions with me work. I would love to hear from you.
Wags,
Rebecca
