Sometimes the first frame takes your breath away.
Tres family contacted me to photograph him in his backyard. A senior pup with mobility issues, he was no longer able to go far from his family home.
So I arrived and began to look for a location in the backyard. We waited patiently while Tres made a very long, slow trek (for him) out of the house and into the backyard.
When he finally got there with Dad’s help, I asked my assistant to hold the light while I did a light test. And I shot the one frame you see below.
So technically, this wasn’t a photograph I planned. But it was the most beautiful tribute to the relationship and Tres’ wonderful life.
Things to know about End of Life (Heritage Sessions)
While I will always encourage people to have their pet photographed while he/she is still young and full of life, there is nothing quite like celebrating a wonderful life with a loving family. The resulting portraits often become most treasured and a source of comfort once the final goodbye has been said.
However, ensure that your photographer approaches a session like this with the right mindset. As with every pup or kitty, we need to work with them in a way that puts their comfort and happiness at the forefront. With a senior or unwell pet, the limitations may be many as movement and mobility can be issues. Choosing the right time of day when your pet feels most well and alert is crucial, as is the schedule surrounding any medications. Know that these also tend to be shorter sessions as older pets tire more quickly.
And that is why the pre-session consult is important – we want to prioritize any portraits you would like to get within whatever timeframe we have.
But…with good planning, flexibility and a pure love for your pet, we will get a beautiful portrait, full of meaning.
Want to see what Tres’ mum had to say about their session? –> REVIEWS
Have a senior dog or cat that you would like to have photographed? Need a pet photographer that specializes in end of life sessions? Contact me to discuss your options.
POSH PETS® HERITAGE SESSIONS
Celebrating the life, love and legacy of your pet. ™
- High-priority sessions are reserved for pets that become ill or are simply elderly. We make every effort to schedule these on short notice and work within their restrictions.
- An opportunity to take time out of your busy schedule to spend some quality time together, 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.
- More information can be found here.
