A Picture Perfect Puppy Party | Pet Birthday Celebration by Professional Dog Photographer Holly Hildreth by Holly Hildreth

Besides photographing other people’s dogs, I try to make a point of capturing my own two corgis, Rigby and Brisket. I have a yearly tradition of doing a small photo shoot to celebrate on their birthdays. Rigby recently turned a whopping 9 years old, so we had a photoshoot to celebrate!

Setting the Scene:

For Rigby’s 9th birthday, I wanted to go with a classic, sleek black and gold theme. I was going for a little bit of a Great Gatsby vibe. I transformed my studio with colorful gold streamers layered on top of a black velvet background and completed the scene with a golden “9” balloon and glittery party hats.

Behind the Scenes

I attached yellow streamers to black velvet background paper. On the table I have a piece of black acrylic to create a reflection.

Professional Pet Photoshoot of a Dog Birthday Party featuring a Corgi in a party hat

The Birthday Boy

Dog smiling at the camera during his birthday party photo shoot
Great Gatsby Art Deco Dog Birthday Party Set for a Photo shoot. There is a Corgi dog in a party hat next to a gold balloon number 9
Cute Corgi Dog at a dog birthday party, wearing a birthday hat

This one melts my heart every time!

More Than Just Snaps: Memories Made

By the end of the shoot, I had a camera roll full of hilarious and heartwarming photos that perfectly captured Rigby’s personality. Our session was a joyful celebration of the unconditional love our furry companions bring to our lives. So Happy Birthday, Rigby! I am looking forward to many more years together still to come.

If you want to celebrate your dog’s birthday in style, then ditch the grainy phone pics and create lasting memories with a professional pet photoshoot. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Engagement Session Featuring Georgie the Rescue Dog in Columbus, Ohio by Holly Hildreth

Indoor engagement announcement photo of a mixed breed dog wearing a bandana, photo by Columbus, Ohio Dog Photographer Holly Hildreth

Georgie here has a big announcement: His Humans are Getting Married!

I photographed Pam, Devon, and Georgie a few years ago for a pet and family session, so I was excited for the opportunity to work with them again for their engagement photos. For their photo shoot, they wanted to be sure to include Georgie, their rescue dog. We also wanted the images to have a warm and relaxed vibe, as well as incorporate their favorite drinks as a special touch.

Since it was the middle of winter and ridiculously cold outside, we had to get creative. We beat the chilly weather by photographing at The Junto Hotel! This dog-friendly hotel in downtown Columbus is incredibly beautiful and made for the perfect backdrop for our session. It also gave us an excellent view of the skyline.

While I’m a pet photographer first and foremost, it’s always a special treat to be able to capture pets with their people—especially when celebrating some of life’s big milestones! Your dog isn't just a pet, they're family. So, when it comes to capturing the joy of your engagement, include them in the celebration! Here's why your furry friend deserves a spot in your engagement shoot:

  • Furever Part of the Story: Your engagement photos tell the story of your love, and your dog has likely been there for some of the most special moments in your relationship. Including them reflects the true essence of your growing family.

  • Laughter & Lightheartedness: Dogs are natural stress relievers and bring a sense of fun to any situation. Their playful energy can inject humor into your photos and help you relax in front of the camera.

  • Unique & Unforgettable: Engagement photos including your dog are guaranteed to be one-of-a-kind, truly special photos that capture not just the bond between you and your partner, but the incredible love you all share.

Ready to book your session? Visit my Contact Page today to request your photo shoot!

Ohio Dog Photographer | Lincoln’s End of Life Pet and Family session by Holly Hildreth

Woman saying goodbye to her dog during and end of life pet photography session in Ohio

“Dogs' lives are too short. Their only fault, really.” – -Agnes Sligh Turnbull

I recently had an End of Life session with this adorable doodle named Lincoln, and his sister Maizey. Lincoln was such a gentle and sweet boy, taking treats with the best manners, sitting patiently for photos despite Ohio’s winter temperatures, and happily accepting pets from anyone who would give them. I'm so glad we decided to brave the cold and give Lincoln one last tail-wagging adventure, as he crossed the Rainbow Bridge just a couple hours after our session. Please join me in sending some love to Lincoln's family during this difficult time.

Valentine's Day Themed Dog Photoshoot by Ohio Pet Photographer Holly Hildreth by Holly Hildreth

Adorable Valentine’s Day Puppy Portraits

A big round of a-paws for Rigby and Brisket being the best doggy models

While I’m not a huge fan of Valentine’s day, I decided that my two corgis needed a Valentine's-themed shoot anyway. I knew I wanted to try something new, and decided to create my own background and set for this photo shoot. The inspiration came when I realized I needed to cut off and toss some seamless paper that got thoroughly scuffed up from use, but instead of just throwing it away, I had arts and crafts time! I cut hearts out of the used paper and taped them onto a clean roll of seamless with painter’s tape. The result was a super-festive, greeting-card worthy set of photos of my pups that you can’t help but smile about

6 Reasons Why You Should Choose A Professional Pet Photographer for a Pet and Family Photoshoot by Holly Hildreth

Capturing Pets & their People

You and your dog share a unique and incredible bond. Here’s why hiring a pet photographer should be at the top of your list if you’re considering getting photos taken together with your dog.

Dogs are such a special part of our lives. They provide us with unconditional love, companionship, and endless entertainment. A Professional Pet Photographer can help you to capture the deep connection you share, creating not just photographs, but masterful works of art featuring you and your dog.

Unlike people and family photographers that may also shoot weddings, graduations, newborns, etc, I ONLY take on sessions that include an animal. That means you’re getting someone who is not only dedicated to the craft of photography, but someone who knows how to get the best out of your dog. Because of this and the wealth of experience I have in this field, it means that I can give you an incredible portrait of you and your dog that you never would be able to get from a people/family photographer.

Now I know what you’re thinking. “If I want to be in the photos with my dog, why wouldn’t I just hire a regular family photographer?” Well, here are 6 reasons why you should specifically book a professional pet photographer for a session of you and your dog:

  1. Professional Pet Photographers are Experts at “Reading” Your Dog. Did you know the main way dogs communicate is through body language? A dog is always broadcasting what they’re feeling and what they need through tiny signals that most people don’t even notice. I am an expert at seeing and interpreting the subtle little signs your dog gives off, and in turn tailoring your session to what your dogs needs in order to create an enjoyable, stress-free experience for your pet. My goal is to always keep your pup safe, happy, and engaged in everything we’re doing.

  2. During Your Session, Your Dog is the Boss. A professional dog photographer can adapt on the fly and roll with whatever your dog feels like doing. Your dog will never be pushed into stressful situations or forced to do anything they don’t want to do. I am continuously watching for signs that your dog needs to take a break—and we will take as many as your dog needs. Sometimes all it takes is 10 seconds of belly rubs to to hit the reset button in your dog’s brain to get them back to feeling confident, happy, and interested in getting their photo taken. Letting your dog set the pace and dictate the kind of shots we get in turn means that you and your dog will both have a positive experience. Your dog may even blissfully fall asleep smiling during your drive home from our session.

  3. Pets are Family. Period. With some people-focused photographers, your dog can end up looking like just an accessory in your photos and not like an equally-important part of your family. Often times people photographers will relegate dogs to the very edge or bottom of the frame. The dogs may also look disengaged—the people are smiling at the camera, but the dog is way more interested in what’s happening behind him. With a Professional Pet Photographer, your dog is not an afterthought, he is the main event. That means all our poses are built around your pup. So instead of it feeling like you’re doing a family session and your dog is just tagging along, your dog will be treated as THE reason for the photo shoot

  4. Pet Photographers are Wizards at Getting Your Dog’s Attention. We always hear from clients that they’re worried their dog won’t be suitable for a photo shoot as they don’t know any commands, are high energy, or have a short attention span. But, there’s no reason to worry. I have tons of tricks up my sleeve for getting your dog to look at me and stay engaged with what we’re doing. Clients are always genuinely shocked at how many great photos we get from a session. Knowing when to press the shutter button is key, as it really only takes a split second of attention to make your dog look like he was a perfectly-posed best-boy. Pet photographers are able to anticipate when your dog is about to be in the perfect position and have the best expression, and are masters at knowing when to take the shot.

  5. We know How to Capture Your Dog's Best Side. Pet Photographers can turn a bouncy puppy or a salt-and-pepper senior into a doggy super model. I know how to work with any kind of dog regardless of their age, size, breed(s), energy levels, training, abilities, and personality. This means every client walks away with incredible images. Regular Family photographers that specialize in people portraits do not have an in-depth understanding of animal behavior—just like how you wouldn’t expect your primary care doctor to also be a veterinarian. Hiring someone who specializes exclusively in pets means you are choosing someone who knows how to get the very best from your dog. I have hundreds of hours of positive-reinforcement dog training classes under my belt, and I also volunteer my photography services to 2 local rescues by photographing adoptable dogs. This means I’ve also worked extensively with dogs who have experienced trauma, are under-socialized, have special needs, or are wary of humans. I’ve never met a dog that I couldn’t win over; sometimes it just takes a little extra patience for your dog to feel comfortable and come out of their shell. Before the end of the session, your dog will be all smiles—they might not even want to leave!

  6. We know how to showcase the bond you share. Every photo has a story, and we know the best way to show and tell it. While your session may feel like you’re just hanging out with your dog in a beautiful park, I’ll be behind the lens, capturing the genuine and subtle little moments that tell the story of the love you share. While we can do set-up poses, often the most beautiful results are organic and candid.

Looking for even more reasons to get photos done together with your pet? Take a look at the gallery below for some of my favorite pet and people sessions.

Are you ready to book your pet photo shoot? If so, visit my Contact Page to request your session today!

Winter End of Life Pet and Family Photo Session - Tyskie | Gahanna, Ohio by Holly Hildreth

Tyskie’s family sharing a quiet, loving moment during their End of Life Session | © Holly Hildreth Photography

Tyskie the Border Collie mix recently came to me for a session after receiving some unfortunate health news. Since it was so close to Christmas, we decided to take advantage of Creekside park in Gahanna, which has an amazing Christmas light display in December. Tyskie’s family wanted to capture some portraits of him by himself as well as a few photos together. Take a look below for some of my favorites from our session.


End of Life pet photography is not about dwelling on the inevitable, but rather about celebrating the life, love, and the unique bond you share with your dog.

Dogs bring us immeasurable joy, unconditional love, and goofy antics that fill our lives with laughter and warmth. As much as we cherish every wonderful moment together, the reality of their shorter lifespans means we will all have to say “goodbye” to our best friends as some point.

Here's why end-of-life pet photography is a gift worth giving to yourself or a loved one:

  • Treasured memories: Photos transcend time and hold the incredible power to transport you back to joyful moments. A gentle nuzzle, a goofy grin during belly rubs, their soft gaze – these details might fade with time, but photographs keep them vibrant and alive.

  • Comfort in grief: Losing a pet is never easy, and the pain can feel overwhelming. End-of-life photos offer a tangible connection to your furry friend, a source of comfort and solace when you need it most. Looking at their familiar face, can bring a wave of bittersweet joy and cherished memories. The session itself also provides owners a sense of closure and peace knowing that we’ve captured something to hold on to after your pet passes.

  • Honoring the bond: These photos are a testament to the unconditional love and unwavering loyalty shared between you and your dog. They capture the pure joy pets bring to us, as well as the deep devotion we share. These are more than just portraits; they are gallery-worthy works of art created as an homage to your pet and their impact on your life.

  • Celebrating life: While acknowledging the inevitable, end-of-life pet photography is ultimately a celebration of life. It's a way to honor your dog through a beautiful tribute to their spirit. The session also gives us an opportunity to go on one last tail-wagging adventure before they cross the Rainbow Bridge. Owners often remark that their dog is so overjoyed during our session that they catch a beautiful glimmer of their dog acting like their old, happy selves.

Making the experience special:

  • Choose the right photographer: Look for someone who specializes in pet photography and understands the emotional sensitivity of end-of-life sessions, as well as the extra considerations that may be needed for a terminally-ill pet.

  • Focus on comfort: Prioritize your dog's well-being above all else. Choosing the setting, keeping the session stress-free, and letting your furry friend guide the pace means that you and your dog are both going to have a positive and fun experience

  • Doggy Bucket List: Does your dog love cheeseburgers more than anything? Or maybe they could never resist going for a swim. We can customize your session to your pet, which means we have an opportunity to incorporate some of your pet’s favorite things. Our session provides you with one last memory-making adventure together.

If you are interested in booking an end of life pet photography session for your dog, please use my contact page to request a session. Because I know time is of the essence in these cases, I will be in touch ASAP to get your pup in for their photo shoot.

Christmas Dog and Family Session - Creekside at Gahanna, Ohio by Holly Hildreth

A couple pets their pitbull mix dog in front of a christmas light display during a professional pet photography session in Ohio

Crowley and Family

A Christmas-themed session in Gahanna, Ohio

I just LOVE Christmas--it's my favorite holiday (I mean... I AM named after a Christmas plant after all). So when Crowley's family booked a session at Creekside Plaza in Gahanna, I was so excited. I knew we were going to get some amazing shots with their incredible Christmas lights display.

I hadn’t been to Creekside for their Christmas display in quite some time, but I was so impressed. There were hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights all around the park as well as a gigantic tree all decked out.

Crowley’s family wanted to get some photos of themselves together with their pet. While I am an animal photographer first and foremost, it’s also super rewarding to capture the beautiful connection people share with their pets. Here’s what Crowley’s family had to say about their session with Holly Hildreth Photography:

“To say this was a wonderful experience is an understatement. It was joyful, fun and Holly made it effortlessly easy for us. She is a wealth of knowledge for places that suit the dogs needs on top of having gorgeous backdrops. She was amazing with our high energy dog and helped create a safe space for him. The photos will be forever on our walls until the next time we book with her for updates.”

Ohio Dog and Owner Photoshoot - Berklee at Hoover Reservoir by Holly Hildreth

An African-American woman sitting in front beautiful fall scene. Her hound dog licks her face

An Autumn Pet and Owner Portrait Session in Westerville, Ohio | © Holly Hildreth Photography

Berklee the hound mix came to me for a Pet and Owner photo session at Hoover Reservoir in Westerville. Berklee's mom wanted to be sure we incorporated some color into our shoot—something that can be tough in early winter. Luckily for us, there are still beautiful pockets of color if you know where to look.

One of the trademarks of my photography is my off-camera flash lighting style. Even when a scene might regularly look pretty brown or drab (as is common in the late fall and winter here in Ohio), by utilizing a combination of high shutter speeds and a flash, I am able to make the colors pop. This technique is how I do all my dramatic sky sunset sessions. By shooting this way, it makes the colors of the sky and the golden sunlight much more intense and brings back some virbrant color into a scene.

Columbus Professional Dog Photography Session - Archie & Angel by Holly Hildreth

A Shepherd mix breed dog at Hoover Reservoir in Westerville, Ohio, at Sunset

Two signature elements of my photographic style are bold colors and dramatic lighting. When I get to combine those two things with a gorgeous dog? It's the best feeling ever--so satisfying! Angel and Archie recently came to me for a fall pet session. We began their shoot by taking advantage of the last bits of fall color, and then migrated down to the lake shore of Hoover Reserivor for some sunset shots. This little sandbar is underwater all year and only emerges in late fall/early winter. This is the first session this year where it's been accessible, and it was the perfect spot for getting some gorgeous golden hour sunset portraits.

Ohio Dog Photography - Dolly & Juniper by Holly Hildreth

Woman holding her cockapoo dog at sunset

Pet + Family Photoshoot

If you’d love a shot like this of you and your furry friend, then a Pet & Family session is the right fit for you!

There are tons of great reasons to get pet portraits, but one of the most special is when you add a new furry family member to your home. I recently had the pleasure of photographing Dolly and her little sister, Juniper the Toy Poodle puppy, together with their mom. I like to keep all my sessions as stress-free as possible for everyone involved, which means we'll work with whatever your dogs feel like doing. With puppies, sometimes that means letting them get their zoomies out while I photograph!

This little family of three was such fun to work with. Dolly and Juniper were full of life and personality, and it was so easy to see just how special they are to their mom. I love capturing the quiet little moments of love shared between a dog and their human. Which photo below is your favorite from this session?

Columbus End of Life Pet Photography - Dugan by Holly Hildreth

Handsome 13 year old Dugan recently came to me for an End of Life session when he was diagnosed with a sinus tumor. He was a tiny gentleman during his pet and family session and was nothing but happiness, tail wags, and love--at one point taking a quick break from shooting to run up to me and ask for a belly rub. It was very clear to see just how special Dugan is to his people. I’m so glad we were able to capture the bond he had with his moms while he was still feeling good. I'll be thinking of Dugan and his family as they treasure the remaining time they have together.

Ohio End of Life Dog Photography - Louis, Slugger, & Easton by Holly Hildreth

End of Life dog photography session with a special needs schnauzer dog in Ohio

End of Life Pet Photography

Saying “goodbye” to our furry friends is never easy. EoL Pet Photography is a wonderful way to celebrate the life of your furry friend before they pass.

While I always hope for amazing sunny skies for every session, sometimes Mother Nature has her own plans and gives you a dark and drizzly day instead. Your can actually see the raindrops in some of these photos if you zoom in! Louis, Slugger, and Easton recently had their fall session with me. Days before their session, Slugger's family found out he is diabetic. Getting a diabetes diagnosis in dogs can be extremely overwhelming at first--trust me, I know firsthand! Since my personal dog is also diabetic, I knew exactly what Slugger needed. We were able to time his session around his feeding and insulin schedule as well as use low-glycemic treat options that wouldn't impact his blood sugar. I'm so glad we were able to capture some beautiful portraits of these 3 adorable pups, despite the rainy weather, and am wishing Slugger's family all the best as they embark on their doggy diabetes journey together.

Here’s what their owner had to say about their pet photography experience:

“Wow! Holly was fantastic for so many reasons! She worked with all three of our dogs at once and delivered some fantastic photos! She took pictures of our three boys on a rainy, yucky day and turned them into magic!

My favorite part of the experience was the accommodations she made for our newly diabetic pup, Slugger. She was so great working with all of our dogs, but really tailored our experience to Slugger, by recommending the best treats, working around our feeding schedule, and offering her experience with her own diabetic fur baby.

We could not be happier with our experience. :)”

Ohio Commercial Dog Photography Shoot - Shetland Sheepdogs by Holly Hildreth

Professional Pet Photo of a spooky scene featuring a Sheltie puppy on a foggy autumn night in Ohio.

I recently had the pleasure of doing a multi-dog photoshoot for a commercial client looking to license some photos of Shetland Sheepdogs for their products. I put out a model call over on my facebook page. I quickly got connected with Érable Shetland Sheepdogs, who brought me these 4 amazingly-well behaved Shelties. We had our session at New Albany’s Rose Run Park. Although we had a gloomy fall day to work with, that didn't stop these pups from shining bright. Plus the moodier lighting felt perfectly fitting for this October photoshoot.

If you are a pet-focused business looking some high-quality, professional animal imagery, please use my contact page to reach out today. I have thousands of images available for licensing, or we can also set up your own custom commercial pet photo shoot.

Travel and Destination Dog Photography - Grey and Otto by Holly Hildreth

Professional Pet Portrait of a Great Dane standing next to a lake at sunset in the Appalachian Foothills of eastern Ohio

I feel like I met a celebrity! Recently I got to photograph Grey the Great Dane & Little Brother Otto! I met their mom, Charlene, on Facebook several years ago through a mutual interest in dog photography. Charlene is a talented Pittsburgh pet and family photographer (check out her work here: https://usandthedog.com/ ) It was so amazing to finally meet everyone in person. Plus it’s always extra special when you get to photograph another dog photographer’s pets!

For those who don't know, Grey and Charlene are an accomplished therapy dog team in the Pittsburgh area. Together they have clocked hundreds of therapy visits, bringing a little piece of doggy cheer to those who need it most. Grey's little brother Otto hopes to fill his big shoes one day when he's old enough, and become a certified therapy dog as well.

For our session we traveled to a cute little campground destination situated in the Appalachian foothills of eastern Ohio, near Cambridge. It's always an exciting challenge to photograph somewhere totally new, but we had some beautiful scenery to work with. My favorite part of the session was the blue-hour portraits we did beside the campground lake.

Are you interested in getting dramatic, eye-catching, one-of-a-kind portraits of your dog, but you reside outside of the Columbus, Ohio, metro area? Let’s talk! Travel and Destination pet photography could be the right fit for you. Whether you’re 30 miles away or 3,000, I can build you a custom package that meets your needs. Plus, if there’s one thing I love just as much as photographing pets, it’s traveling! Use my Contact Page today to schedule your travel and destination pet photography session!

Ohio End of Life Pet Photography - Cosmo by Holly Hildreth

Cosmo and his family recently came to me for an End of Life Pet Photography Session when he received the unfortunate news that his cancer had returned. It's always an honor to be trusted with capturing some final memories of pets and families together—documenting the love and deep bond that is shared. While none of us know how long our pups have with us, it is never easy to say goodbye. I'll be thinking of Cosmo and his family as they spend his golden days together. I'll leave you with my little poem about the most handsome one-eared wonder, Cosmo:

"For now let's cherish every day,

Savor every moment's play.

Though I may not have much pep

Please know I’ve loved every step.

So scratch my ear that special way,

Say the things you want to say.

Talk to me and let me know

It's "ok" when I must go."

Columbus, Ohio, Commercial Dog Photography - Parachute Home National Dog Day Campaign by Holly Hildreth

One of the things that has helped me develop my photographic style as a pet photographer, is my background in commercial photography! Any time I am able to combine commercial lighting and styling with photographing pets—I’m in heaven. So when Parachute Home reached out and asked me if I would join them again this year for their annual Puppy Party on National Dog Dog at their new Easton location, I was so excited! We had a great turn out, and created some beautiful product photos featuring our puppy party guests for Parachute’s campaign.

Did you miss the party this year? There’s always next year! Parachute Home loves celebrating National Dog Day by throwing a party just for you to come shop with your best friend, enjoy some local treats and drinks, and get your very own FREE pet portrait! Hope to see you next year!

Newark, Ohio Puppy Photography Session at Highland Hills by Holly Hildreth

Two English Bulldog puppies in front of the Appalachian foothills of Newark, Ohio

All puppies are cute, but holy cow, English Bulldog puppies are in a league of their own!

I had the pleasure of photographing 8 rolly, polly English Bulldog puppies and their momma at the gorgeous Highland Hills Venue. These insanely cute puppies belong to the venue owner, so it was fitting to do the session there. I'm so glad we did, because the location is amazing!

Nestled in the Appalachian foothills outside of Newark, Ohio. Highland Hills Venue is a photographer's dream. They have a gorgeous wooden barn, outdoor string lights, a beautiful view of the surrounding hills, a pond with fountain, a vintage truck, longhorn and highland cows...and the list goes on! If you're looking for an event venue for a wedding, party, or just a place to photograph your next shoot, I highly recommend checking them out!

Columbus End of Life Dog Photography - Chloe the Sheltie by Holly Hildreth

Woman cries while embracing her dying dog during and End of Life Pet Photography Session

“I lost a treasured friend today

The little dog who used to lay

Her gentle head upon my knee

And shared her silent thoughts with me.

Although my eyes are filled with tears

I thank God for the happy years

He let her spend down here with me

And for her love and loyalty."

Chloe's family recently brought her to me for an End of Life photo session. While Chloe’s health issues limited her mobility, that didn’t stop her from laying in the grass, sniffing the summer breeze, watching storm clouds roll in, and sipping on some dirty lake water (her favorite!) I'm so glad we were able to get Chloe in for her session when we did, as the next day she crossed the Rainbow Bridge. After Chloe’s passing, her mom reached out to let me know how important these photos were to her. They were glad Chloe was able to get out of the house and enjoy one last evening together doing some of her favorite things. They remarked that Chloe seemed happier and more herself than she had in a long time. It was a bittersweet goodbye, but I am honored that I had the opportunity to document some final happy memories together for Chloe’s family to cherish.

Losing a pet is one of the most painful experiences in life. However, End-of-life pet photography can be a beautiful way to capture some last happy memories before your beloved furry family member passes. It can help you cope with your grief, navigate the loss, and remember your pet in a happy light. Owners also report it gives them a sense of closure as the sessions provide a time and a place to celebrate your dog’s life as well as come to terms with what is next. It also provides you an opportunity to give your pup one last evening to do the things they love, whether that’s just laying outside in the sunshine, wading in some water, going for a car ride, receiving pets, eating their favorite foods, or just enjoying some fresh air with you. If you are in need of End of Life Pet Photography services, please use the form on my Contact page to reach out today.

Travel and Destination Pet Photography - Angel in Cocoa Beach, Florida by Holly Hildreth

Blondes really do have more fun! This beautiful blonde dachshund is Angel. I met Angel's owner, Liz, about 13 years ago online through Flickr. We hit it off, connecting through our mutual interest in dog photography, and our friendship grew from there. Liz has been a great cheerleader for me and always very supportive of my pet photography passion! So when I recently had an opportunity to travel to Cocoa Beach, Florida, I knew I just HAD to meet up with Liz and do a little photoshoot with her pup while I was there. It was truly so special for both of us to be able to do this!

We wanted to make sure to have a location that just screams "Florida". With those classic pastel hues and beachside views, South Beach Inn in Cocoa Beach was the perfect spot for our session.

While many of my clients live in Central Ohio, I do offer travel and destination pet photography services. Contact me today to get a custom quote!

Columbus, Ohio, End of Life Pet Photography Session - Rocky by Holly Hildreth

Black and white shot of a Woman holding her terminally ill dog during an end of life pet photography session

"I didn’t want to go at first,

I fought with all my might.

But something seems to draw me now

to a warm and loving light.

I want to go, I really do.

But I will try as best I can

to live just one more day with you.

To give you time to care for me

and share your love and fears.

I know you’re sad and afraid,

because I see your tears.

I’ll not be far,

I promise that, and hope you’ll always know

that my spirit will be close to you

wherever you may go.

Thank you so for loving me.

You know I love you too,

that’s why it’s hard to say goodbye

to this life with you." - Susan A. Jackson

I recently had an End of Life session with sweet Rocky here. Rocky's family contacted me about a session when he got some devastating health news. Unfortunately I was in Florida at the time. We discussed checking in to other awesome pet photographers in the area who might be able to get Rocky in before I got back to Ohio, as time is of the essence when dealing with End of Life cases. But, Rocky is a determined guy! He held on until I got back to Columbus. I think he knew just how important these photos would be to his family. After having a rough night, Rocky did not have the strength to walk or sit/stand for more than a fleeting moment, but what he could do was stretch out and enjoy laying in the cool grass, watching his fur sibling, Minnie, explore the park, and soaking up all the snuggles and pats from the people who love him the most.

One concern I hear from owners considering End of Life pet photography is that they’re afraid their dog isn't suitable for a photo shoot due to being blind, deaf, or mobility or otherwise impaired. They worry that if their pet is not able to run and play, then the photos won't capture their pup's personality. I’m here to tell you that you have no reason to worry! Here is proof that we will absolutely capture wonderful memories of your faithful friend regardless of any impairments they may have.