Dec 14, 2015
Do you have one incredible portrait of your dog or cat? Often when I ask that, the answer to that question is, simply, no.
It is an important question. Most of us have a lot of fun shots documenting everyday life on a smartphone. Those funny, little moments. But, how many of us own an amazing fine art image that showcases your pet’s personality and would be worthy of being displayed on a wall in your home or cottage? Or, one that celebrates the relationship and life you’ve created with your pet at a particular moment of their life? Those images are precious, especially once that phase of your dog’s life (be it puppyhood, the prime of their life, or the senior years) have passed. And, it is what Posh Pets™ Photography specializes in.
It’s how I came to meet Gus on a drizzly afternoon. It had threatened rain all morning, but we decided to go ahead with the session, mostly because Gus was soon going to be moving south to the United States. His human told me later that he looked at a number of pet photographers, but wanted more than just a ‘head shot’…he wanted a portrait of Gus. So, please meet Gus, a beautiful wheaten terrier with a selection of his Autumn portraits.
The leaves had mostly fallen off the trees, but the colours on the ground made Gus’ coat look stunning. We went for a walk in his favourite park – the only strange part to Gus was that we kept stopping to create an image every so often. He was more than happy to do so, as long as there was adequate ‘compensation’ in the form of yummy treats!
He’s such a happy boy, but I was told that Gus’ greatest quality was his loyalty. He loves his family fiercely. It also became apparent that he can strike a pose…I mean, just look at that sexy leg. 😉
And, he can also pull off a great head tilt.
Of course, we ended the session with the requisite ‘head shot’, capturing Gus’ gorgeous eyes.
In the end, Gus’ family purchased two beautiful wall portraits and a gorgeous folio box, filled with art prints. The portraits will take their place beside the portraits of Gus’ predecessor.
Has this whet your appetite to create gorgeous images of your furry family member? If so, and you would like to arrange a session with Posh Pets™ Photography, the place to start is here.
Nov 17, 2015
So, this is Toby. He’s a downtown dog. He’s the cutest, little Jack Russell Terrier just abounding with energy. He spends most of his days with his girl, Sarah, who he adores fiercely. And, let me tell you, the feeling is mutual.
We wanted to create a custom Posh Pets session that would showcase Toby’s personality, his city, and his relationship with his favourite human.
The other requirement was that the final images that would be quite clearly summer-y, with a beautiful blue sky and great sunlight. We rescheduled the session a couple of times before we got the perfect day.
Look at that light!
Playing on the beach by the water (and in the water) is a past time of Toby’s. We had to get an image of him with his girl by the water. After this, he was in the water…
And then there was this image. Often times during the pre-session consultation, a client will reveal that there is one image they really want to have. For Sarah, it was an image of Toby and the CN Tower. There are logistics associated with such a photograph, for a dog is such a small creature and the CN Tower, well…it’s tall. But, we found an angle, a rock and an awesome sunrise to show it all off. Of course, this image got printed big!
Thanks Toby for all the fun we had that morning. You are a sweetheart. May your years together with Sarah be long and happy!
Nov 12, 2015
Three years. Three years of a warm, dry, safe place to sleep at night. A full belly. An older sister you comforted and cared for. A little sister you adore. Conversations. Head bumps. Snuggles. Naps in a sunbeam. And lots of love from your two humans.
Happy Gotcha day Baxter! A celebration of the day you left the shelter behind and entered the Posh Pets family. Truly, our world is so much better with you in it.
xoxo
Nov 10, 2015
As a photographer, it is important to always be learning, to stretch yourself creatively and try something new. It’s also often a chance to do a little bit of travel and connect with other photographers who share similar interests. So, each year, I look for educational opportunities that will allow me to expand my skills, and thus, the work I am able to offer to Posh Pets clients.
For some time now, I have wanted to try my hand at equine photography. Horses are gorgeous creatures with such grace and speed, and, having taken English riding lessons myself (many years ago!), I knew that photographing them would require a different approach from how I photograph dogs and cats. After doing some research, in September, I had the absolute joy to attend the Focus on Horses workshop in California. It was run by the immensely talented Eden Halbert of Sierra Luna Photography and Suzon Murray of Fuzzywunkle. I had followed Eden’s work for some time and had been astounded by the horse imagery she produces. (Please check her out – her ability to capture the spirit of the wild horse is breathtaking.) I was not as familiar with Suzon’s work, but after the time we spent together during the workshop, I was in awe of the wealth of experience she has working with horses in all types of situations, and her mastery at processing an image to create a final piece of artwork. All of which she was more than happy to share with us!
We had 3 days of a combination of in-class business information and post-processing techniques, as well as hands-on time to photograph horses and models. (The in-class portion was a welcome relief from the California drought and crazy heat!) I’m immensely proud to share with you here some of the images we were able to create.
We started with the traditional western seat. Lily brought her horse and a lovely outfit for us to photograph in the early morning sun.
Elaine was the English rider, Hunter seat specifically. The bond between Elaine and her beautiful horse was amazing to see and photograph.
Our final model was Sandy, who wore a stunning bridal gown for the session. Under the never-ending California sun, she was able to give us some truly unique and beautiful images.
And just because I do truly love the little furry faces, I couldn’t resist this little barn cat who followed us around all 3 days and, at this point, seemed to be saying, “Hey! What’s with all of the interest in the horses? I’m standing right here. How about you photograph ME?” Saucy little thing. I wanted to bring her home. 🙂
Nov 6, 2015
Nothing like a day of playing with Posh Puppies! This little bit of fluff is absolutely adorable. His name is Niko and he is my entry into this month’s I Heart Faces photo challenge. Usually those challenges are strictly for human faces, but let’s be real – who could not want to see this little face! Let’s hope he wins the judges over 🙂
Oct 22, 2015
I love these two gorgeous golden retriever boys! Jake and Mack are an uncle-nephew dog duo who make their home in Toronto. Mack is a 4 year old bundle of excitement who loves his family, loves to get to know you and find out what you are doing, and loves his treats (he’s the slightly more portly of the two). So, when I showed up with treats in hand, needless to say, I was a hit. Jake is the more quiet and serious one. At 7 years of age, he has definitely calmed down, and now, he is facing some serious health issues. Which is why his family called Pets Photography – they wanted some lovely images of their boys while they were still together.
This gorgeous portrait of them on their family’s front porch was lots of fun to create. One of the first things clients will often tell me is that their dog is not reliable must remain on leash. I always assure them that is perfectly fine. It was the same with Jake and Mack. We were quite obviously at the front of their house without any fencing or other barriers to keep them safe. It necessitated using their leashes and those leashes needed to be held by Mom and Dad. In fact, the humans are actually hiding in the alcove to either side of that front door. The magic of post-editing removed any trace of them and the leashes in the final image. Which leaves everyone to stare and admire the amazing smiles on the *obedient* doggies.
There’s something wonderful about a dog’s smile, usually shown by them opening their mouth and letting their tongue come out. But, Mack’s tongue is epic. It certainly suits his goofy, fun-loving personality.
Every Posh Pets‘ session is a relaxed, fun affair and, if the dogs enjoy it, some running around and playing. It is wonderful to have images of your dog’s unbridled enthusiasm for a ball and the feeling of the grass between their paws. Capturing these two boys larking about with each other in their backyard was such a joy for me and them!
There is also plenty of time for quiet, reflective portraits. The kind of artwork that you will want to display proudly on your wall.
We often end a session with an image that is a ‘slice of life’. Here, Jake, after a session of playing, posing, sitting, eating treats and just generally being gorgeous, relaxes in his front hallway on the cool floor. Where he has so many times before.
Jake and Mack, thank you for welcoming me into your lives for those few short hours. It was quite honestly a joy to meet you and photograph you. In my memory, you will always be together, romping around and spreading happiness wherever you go.
Oct 5, 2015
Celebrating the life, love and legacy of your pet.™
As a pet photographer, I get quite a number of requests for sessions with cats. I love our kitty friends – their quiet and calm demeanor, the grace with which they carry themselves and the nuances of their individual personalities. My sessions with them are always a joy.
I met Bart on a quiet summer afternoon in August. Those perfect days when it is not too hot, the sun is shining and no one is running tools to disturb the quiet peace of the neighbourhood. Bart was a 15 1/2 year old black beauty with a kind and gentle nature. He had been adopted by his humans when already full grown (I love it when people fall in love with the adult adoptables!) and had lived a wonderful life with his feline brother, Toby, and his human family.
When his mom first contacted me, she told me worriedly that Bart was a black cat and very difficult to photograph. He was exclusively an indoor cat, so he needed to be photographed inside. Additionally, he had recently been diagnosed with cancer and she really wanted some beautiful images that would highlight his gorgeous eyes and ensure that they had tangible, physical memories to hold onto when the time came to say good-bye.
We spent a couple of hours that afternoon photographing Bart in all of his favourite spots in the home. He was quite happy and was engaged for his photo session. I am always amazed by pets who ‘seem to know’ and therefore muster up the energy to give their families this last gift of photographs. As I was leaving his home, I gave him one quiet cuddle and told him to be a brave boy and let his family know when the time came.
Four weeks later, Bart said his final good-bye at home, surrounded by his loving family.
As I delivered Bart’s final artwork, we talked about what a great life he had, how hard the past couple of weeks had been on everyone, but how right the decision had been to have him photographed professionally. As always, I left the meeting with tears in my eyes.
“Bart, you have left a huge hole in the hearts and lives of those who loved you. I was privileged to have met you and to photograph you. I will remember you with fondness, always.”
POSH PETS HERITAGE™ SESSIONS
Celebrating the life, love and legacy of your pet.™
- High-priority sessions reserved for pets that become ill or are simply elderly. We make every effort to schedule these on short notice.
- An opportunity to take time out of your busy schedule to spend some quality time togehter, celebrate the life you have shared and create images you will treasure forever.
- Please note: The Creative Fee covers time and talent to photograph a maximum of four (4) subjects, which can be any combination of people and up to two (2) pets who live within the same household. Additional subjects may be photographed for a small additional fee.
- Examples of portraits from Posh Pets Heritage™ Sessions can be found here.
Aug 24, 2015
This past Saturday was perfect weather! Which was great because Posh Pets was thrilled to be at the annual SwissRidge Kennels Doodleromp event, this year being hosted by the Pine Tree Pet Care Centre in Guelph. Doodles from all around were there for one huge play date with their litter mates, their cousins and distant relatives. And to raise money for Autism Dog Services who do great work in selecting, training and providing service dogs to families. It was a great turnout!
Each year Doodleromp raises money for a worth cause. Last year’s recipient received his service dog, Ollie from Swiss Ridge Kennels. It’s quite apparent that Shay and Ollie have become fast friends 🙂
Shay got to show off some of the tricks he and Ollie have worked on together. Some of the other doodles wanted to come up and personally congratulate them.
Others had tricks to show off as well.
But, many spent the day running and chasing and playing…
…while others found a cool piece of shade to relax in.
Gibbs was one of the stars – he is so petite and cute. I saw more than one person who wanted to tuck him in a bag and carry him off. Look at that pink tongue!
I even had a brush with celebrity in the form of Riggins. He has his own book Golden Boy and his mom is author Sandy Rideout. I was so pleased that he agreed to sit and pose for a casual portrait. And, he turned on the charm when he flashed his awesome smile!
Of course, the amazing Zolo was there, holding court. Her human is Karley Gittens, an awesome graphic designer, who also works tirelessly to organize the DoodleRomp event each year. I photographed this beautiful girl a couple of years ago when she was still a puppy. It was so nice to be able to catch up with her again.
Blizzard is Zolo’s younger brother and a new addition to the family. He easily outweighs her, but is such a loveable boy!
Jax was a tiny 4-month old puppy last time I saw him (which was last year’s Doodleromp). He has grown into a gorgeous boy. His picture then…
…and now.
I also got to meet tiny, petite Basil and her little human who were happy to stop for a quick portrait.
By the end of the day, everyone agreed – it was a great Doodleromp!
Aug 20, 2015
I love it when I get calls from people looking for the perfect gift for a dog lover and they have decided on a Posh Pets Gift Certificate. It’s a double-dose of awesomeness. Firstly, the givers are invariably incredible people who have really searched for a personal, completely customized gift for their family member or friend. And then, I have the opportunity to meet the dog or cat lover themselves and their adorable pet. What more could I ask for! It is in this way that I came to know Dougie (an obvious fan of the Maple Leafs), and one of the cutest, full-of-personality boston terriers I have ever met. His mom is pretty cool too and she loves Dougie dearly.
After some discussion, his mom picked Dougie’s favourite park on an early week-day morning for his session. It’s where he goes rambling almost every day, and given the fact that practically every single person we met during our session knew Dougie by name, I’d say he’s a bit of a celebrity.
Dougie was careful to be out in front showing us the way around. But, as the ever careful leader, he never got too far ahead. If we lagged a little too much, he would stop, turn around and patiently wait for us to catch up.
Often, we saw the back of him. Which gave him an opportunity to show off his great terrier derrière. (Hey, it rhymes!)
Dougie was more than happy to introduce me to ‘his’ lookout. And then he flashed his beautiful smile!
Dougie is a trooper too. Always up for fun, he was willing to stand in grasses that clearly came way, way, way over his head! And produce a head-tilt, no less!
The fence post – the entrance to many awesome smells and trails to explore. Come on guys – what are we waiting for?
We ended the session with some amazing portraits of this beautiful boy in a bed of red needles. This image hangs large in a place of honour in Dougie’s home.
It was such a pleasure photographing this little guy and creating an amazing folio box filled with fine-art matted prints. You can see more of the products Dougie has in his home on the Posh Pets Instagram page (@dogphotographer). I know that I smile whenever I see his charming face.
Has this post got you wanting to design a custom session for your pet? If so, the place to start is here.
Jul 21, 2015
The hot, sticky, humid days are upon us in Toronto! Even so, the dogs at Toronto Animal Services seems to enjoy getting out and letting their paws enjoy the grass. (The treats and belly rubs may also add to their joy.) It’s such fun to meet and photograph these gorgeous furry faces each week.
Yesterday, we had an abundance of little brown and tan doggies. It’s like they all decided to match the background! Along with a black and white coat or two, and you have one group of great-looking guys and girls. Introducing this week’s group of eager adoptables…
My last little ones were Nigel and Sophia, a sweet natured bonded pair. Sophia is an 8 year old Yorkie mix and Nigel appears to be about 5 years old. TAS would love for them to find a home together. So, if you know anyone looking for a couple of best friends, please pass this on!
Jul 14, 2015
Posh Pets clients are truly dedicated to getting beautiful images. I think
Afarin’s first words to me were, “I’d really like to have a photography session amongst the cherry blossoms in High Park.” At least those were the first words I completely processed and, with them, two things crossed my mind: One, the trees were already in full bloom which meant we had a total of about 48 hours to still catch them at their peak. And, two, the park is completely crawling with people that time of year because they too, want to see the blooms at peak. So, getting images without hordes of people in the background can be a formidable challenge.
I took a deep breath and asked her if she was serious. Yes. Yes, she was.
So, we went into super-hero mode and planned the entire session right at that moment (a 7-month old Chow puppy and a 7-year old toy Pomeranian), ensured that we could both move a few prior commitments around and agreed to meet at 6:45 a.m. the following morning. Starting a session at that time of the morning sounds a bit crazy, but it meant that there were less people (although surprisingly, there were quite a few). And, the light was gorgeous.
That morning I met Bijou and Yoshi and fell in love instantly. Don’t let the size of a toy pomeranian fool you – Bijou is quite firmly the ‘girl boss’ of this duo. Yoshi may be 10 times her size and full of drooling, puppy silliness, but Bijou was always waiting patiently for him to realize that photography sessions are serious business. She came dressed in pearls and there was no way she was going home without beautiful images. I’m very happy to say that that is exactly what Bijou got. Here’s a sampling of the some of the images we created that morning…
We got a family portrait (or two or three)…
No trip to High Park is complete without photograph by the Magnolia tree. With the little princess herself, of course.
High Park has tons of locations to explore, but this was special to Afarin. That amazing golden morning light is only available to those who wake up early.
A couple of formal portraits of the babies themselves.
And together:
We were literally stopped everywhere we went because of this good-looking brother and sister pair…
And finally, we ended up in front of one of the most iconic skylines in the world.
I loved this session and how it came together! And Afarin was thrilled (you can read her review here).
A custom-designed session is what Posh Pets is all about. Taking the time to plan means creating images that are meaningful to you and truly capture the memories of you and your pets. If you are interested in having your own session, I’d love to hear from you.
POSH PETS BOUTIQUE™ SESSIONS
- Pre-session Design Consult that ensures we create images you will be thrilled with.
- The result is gorgeous custom artwork showcasing the life your pet shares with your family.
- A personal Ordering Consultation to ensure you select the right images from the gallery.
- Please note: The Creative Fee covers time and talent to photograph a maximum of four (4) subjects, which can be any combination of people and up to two (2) pets who live within the same household. Additional subjects may be photographed for a small additional fee.
- Examples of portraits from Posh Pets Boutique™ Sessions can be found here.
Jul 6, 2015
Well, Posh Pets is baaaack! It has been such a long time since I have been to TAS – they were closed for renovations and all of the furry faces had to be housed at other locations. However, it was definitely worth it. The staff and dogs and cats all of have air conditioning now! Given how hot it was today, they are certainly happy to have a new HVAC system in place. And, so am I.
In other ways, it’s almost like I never left. Lots of fresh, smiling faces looking for a forever home and waiting to jump into your heart. I had quite a few of these boys and girls refuse my treats in favour of climbing up to shower me with kisses. It never ceases to amaze me how animals can be so forgiving of humans – even if they have been treated horribly or abandoned.
If you see someone you would like to meet, please contact Toronto Animal Services – North Shelter directly. They’ll be happy to arrange an introduction.
