THE IMPORTANCE OF SENIOR PET PHOTOGRAPHY
- Amy Hodson
- Mar 2
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Some dogs leave a mark so deep on our hearts that no amount of time could ever fade it. Bo was one of those dogs.
When I arrived at Beth and Doug’s home for their rainbow bridge pet photography session, I sensed the significance of this moment. Bo had cancer, and his family understood how precious their time with him was.
CAPTURING MEMORIES - NOT PHOTOS
After Bo's diagnosis, his parents were understandably shaken. They struggled with the news and tried to decide the best treatment for him. During this difficult time, a dear friend encouraged them to reach out to me. She wanted them to have the opportunity to capture their moments with Bo. It was a gesture they would cherish forever.
Bo was an extraordinary dog. He wasn’t simply a pet; he was family. To them, he was more than a companion; he was their best friend and confidant. For Doug, Bo was his “soul dog,” the kind of companion that transforms your life forever. The bond they shared was evident from the very first moments of the session.
AT HOME PET PHOTOGRAPHY SESSIONS
Traveling for Bo’s session was a straightforward decision. I often conduct professional pet photography sessions in-home for dogs who are aging, sick, or simply more comfortable in their surroundings. Many dogs do not travel well, so when time is limited, I aim to simplify the process. For Beth and Doug, home was Bo's sanctuary. It was the perfect place to document their love for him. If you have a dog who might struggle with travel, consider booking a session at home. It can be just as, if not more, meaningful.
It’s Okay to Be Emotional
Emotions ran high throughout our time together. Beth and Doug experienced waves of love and grief simultaneously. And that’s perfectly normal. When the stakes are high, it's common for pet parents to feel overwhelmed by emotion. I often witness this in my sessions. It’s a natural response to this profound experience.
These sessions are about creating beautiful images, but they also honor a relationship that shapes our lives. Don’t be afraid to express your emotions. Tears are expected because this moment is significant. Authentic feelings enhance the power of these images.
WHEN TO PHOTOGRAPH YOUR DOG
Bo’s session reminds me of a common sentiment I hear: “I wish we had done this sooner.” Many pet parents realize the importance of capturing these moments only when their dog is older, ill, or nearing life's end. Imagine having photos of your dog when they were young and full of life. These memories are invaluable. If your best friend means the world to you, don’t wait. Prioritize capturing their spirit now.
A Friend Who Knows What You Need
Beth and Doug’s friend understood the significance of these images. She advocated for the process to ensure they didn’t miss out on documenting their love for Bo.
Do you have a friend with a dog who is their whole world? Perhaps they need a gentle push to make it happen. Encourage them to make these memories a priority.
Bo has since crossed the rainbow bridge, but the love he shared with Beth and Doug remains alive in the images we captured that day. When I reflect on their rainbow bridge pet photography session, I see a dog who was adored beyond measure and parents who invested in giving him the best life possible. Through these images, they have something to hold onto. They have a beautiful reminder of the incredible bond they shared.
If you’ve been thinking about booking a professional pet photography session but have been putting it off, consider this your sign. Our dogs' time with us is never long enough, but the memories we create can last a lifetime.
For more information about scheduling a session, feel free to get started here.
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