Ohio Rescue Dog Photography - Studio Portraits of Josie

In my free time I volunteer my pet photography talents to a few Columbus, Ohio-area dog rescues in hopes of helping adoptable dogs find their forever homes. Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph Josie, a very special one-eyed English bulldog, who is available for adoption through Stop the Suffering Animal Rescue of Ohio!

Meet Josie: A Sweet Bulldog Searching for Her Forever Home

Josie is a one-eyed, 2-year-old English bulldog with a heart of gold. Despite her delicate condition, Josie is full of love and eager to find someone who can provide her with the care she needs. She has a heart arrhythmia that is improving but requires regular medication—something her future adopter should be prepared to manage long-term. In addition to her special medical needs, Josie also requires typical bulldog maintenance care, such as having her facial folds wiped regularly and avoiding overheating.

Josie is incredibly friendly, fully house-trained, crate-trained, and gets along well with other dogs and people of all ages. She has a sweet personality. She was happy to pose for photos for me—as long as she could take some breaks to come over and get some belly rubs and eat some treats in between shots.

Josie is the whole package. She even has a full wardrobe of doggy clothes that she loves to get dressed up in! She truly deserves a loving home where she can thrive and receive all the care and attention she needs. If you are interested in giving Josie her forever home, please visit Stop the Suffering Animal Rescue of Ohio to apply.

Why I Volunteer to Photograph Adoptable Dogs

Volunteering to take photos of adoptable dogs is incredibly meaningful to me. As a professional pet photographer, I understand the importance of a great photograph! The difference between a cell phone snap and a professional portrait can make a world of difference for a dog waiting to be adopted. Many dogs spend too much time in shelters or foster homes simply because potential adopters don't see their true personality from a standard photo. Often photos of adoptable dogs are taken at the animal shelter. The Pound can be a very scary place for most dogs! By busting these dogs out of doggy jail, we’re able to get them to a much more calm and positive environment, which in turn puts them at ease and allows me to capture each dog's unique spirit. I hope to increase their chances of being noticed by a family that will give them a loving home.

My goal is to use my pet photography skills to give back to the community here in Columbus, Ohio and help homeless dogs find their forever families. Every animal deserves a chance to be loved, and if my photographs can help make that connection, then all the effort is worthwhile.

Book a Professional Pet Photography Session in Columbus, Ohio

If you’re looking for a professional pet photographer in Columbus, Ohio, I’d love to help capture beautiful memories of your beloved pet. Whether it’s in the studio or outdoors on location, we will get a ton of incredible pet portraits. I photograph dogs and puppies of all ages, sizes, breeds, and abilities. Click the link below to book your dog’s photo shoot today.

Ohio End of Life Pet Photography - Dog and Family Session | Woody the Jack Russell Terrier

Saying goodbye to a faithful friend is never easy. I have had the pleasure of photographing Woody several times over the years. So when I heard he received a terminal diagnoses, we got him in immediately for one last photo shoot to celebrate his life. While he didn’t have a ton of energy, he was still happy to hang out in the warm sunshine and get lots of treats and pats. Woody and his family have had lots of adventures over their 15 years together, and I was honored to capture the incredible bond they share before he passes.

End of Life Pet Photography is such a special way to capture the incredible bond you share with your pet before they cross the Rainbow Bridge. Whether your pet has received a terminal diagnosis, or they are super seniors, I am able to provide you and your family a time and place to make a few last memories together with your dog that will be preserved forever. I tailor the session to your pet’s specific needs to ensure their comfort and safety is top priority. If you are in need of End of Life Pet Photography services in the Columbus, Ohio region, please contact me today. I am usually able to get most clients in for photo shoot within 48 hours.

Christmas Dog and Family Photo Session - Creekside at Gahanna, 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, AND I was supposed to be born on Christmas day). So when Crowley's family booked a session at Creekside Plaza in Gahanna to get some photos for their Christmas cards, I was so excited. I knew we were going to get some amazing shots with their incredible Christmas lights display at Creekside.

I hadn’t been to Creekside for their Christmas display in quite some time, but I was so impressed. It seems to keep growing year after year! 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 dog. 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 End of Life Dog Photography - Louis, Slugger, & Easton

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 End of Life Pet Photography - Cosmo

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 End of Life Dog Photography - Chloe the Sheltie

“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.

Columbus, Ohio, End of Life Pet Photography Session - Rocky

"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.

Columbus End of Life Pet Photographer - Tanner & Sadie

The loss of a pet can be one of the most difficult experiences in life. After all, our pets are our family. They provide us with unconditional love, companionship, and silent support. When they pass, we are left with a hole in our hearts.

End-of-life pet photography can help us to cope with the grief of losing our furry friends. It allows us to capture their likeness and personality in a way that will last a lifetime. These photos can remind us of the good times we had together, and they can help us to heal our hearts.

You may recognize Tanner and Sadie here from a previous photoshoot. We did a studio session of these two with their family a few months ago when Tanner's health was taking a turn. Luckily spunky 18-year-old Tanner is still with us, and continues to make his family smile.

We did Tanner and Sadie’s End of Life outdoor session at the always-wonderful Everal Barn and Homestead in Westerville, Ohio. This gorgeous park is not only filled with seasonal flowers, but it offers a quite, private setting for a Rainbow Bridge session.

If you or a loved one is faced with End of Life circumstances with your pet, please do not hesitate to reach out via my contact page, and I will be in touch ASAP. I keep time in my schedule reserved specifically for End of Life cases.

Dublin, Ohio, End of Life Pet Photography Session - Spencer

Sometimes home is where the session is! This handsome gentleman is Spencer. Unfortunately Spencer's health was declining, and his family wanted to capture some memories together before they had to say "goodbye". Since Spencer was vision, hearing, and mobility-impaired, we thought he would be happiest and most comfortable doing his End of Life photoshoot at home.

Spencer was such a sweetheart during his session. He had the warmest smile, and an equally sunny disposition to match. It was very easy to see how much his family adored him.

Losing a furry family member is never easy--especially when you've shared so much of your lives together. But, I like to think that we are not saying "goodbye" but rather "see you later". As author Pam Brown once said, “If there is a heaven, it’s certain our animals are to be there. Their lives become so interwoven with our own, it would take more than an archangel to detangle them.”

Celebrating Specially-Abled Pets - Columbus, Ohio, dog photography

Hooray! Today is Specially-abled Pets Day! This day honors and celebrates differently-abled pets, their stories, and the families that love them.

One concern I hear from owners is that they’re afraid their pet isn't suitable for a photo shoot due to being blind, deaf, mobility or otherwise impaired. They worry that we may not be able to get their attention, or that if their pet is not able to run and play, then they will look sad in the photos. I’m here to tell you that you have no reason to worry! Here is proof that we will absolutely get wonderful images of your faithful friend regardless of any impairments they may have.

In my years’ of experience, I have had the pleasure of working with pups from a whole spectrum of abilities, and as a result, I have figured out lots of the little secret tricks to get your dog’s attention. From dogs who are diabetic and unable to have treats during the shoot (my personal dog is diabetic too!) to seniors who are unable to stand, to dogs experiencing deafness, blindness…(or both!), I have seen it all, and know just the right ways to photograph these pets. Plus, you might pick up a secret tip for getting your dog’s attention from our photoshoot, that you can use at home when you’re taking your own snaps of your furry friend.

I wanted to celebrate today by sharing some of my oh-so-cute clients who haven’t let life’s curveballs slow them down.

Do you share your life with a specially-abled pet? If so, tell me about them in the comments below!

Westerville, Ohio, End of Life Pet Photography Session - Nellie

"How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard."

This is sweet senior face is Nellie. Her mom reached out to me for an End of Life photoshoot when Nellie's health began to sharply decline. Luckily I have the most amazing, understanding clients which allowed me to move some session around in order to get Nellie in the very next day for her shoot!

Nellie’s owner describes her more like a sister than a pet. They have made so many memories in their 16.5 years together. It was easy to see just how special their connection was. While Nellie’s health issues limited her mobility, that didn’t stop her from laying in the soft grass, sniffing the cool spring breeze, and enjoying watching the sunset with the ones she loves the most: her mom, and fur-sibling Patriot. I'm so glad we were able to get Nellie in for her session when we did, as 2 days later, she made her journey to the Rainbow Bridge. Run free, Miss Nellie! Until we meet again.

While we all want our furry family members to be by our sides forever, unfortunately at some point we all must say goodbye. End of Life pet photography sessions are an amazing gift that you can give yourself. We capture beautiful memories in our time together, that many owners find helps them with the grieving process when their beloved pet passes. I keep time reserved in my schedule every week specifically for End of Life sessions where owners aren’t sure how much time their dog has left and/or are dealing with tough decisions around the declining health of their best friend. If you find yourself in this situation and would like to book your own EoL Pet Photo shoot, contact me today , and I will be in touch ASAP.

Reynoldsburg End of Life Pet Photography Session - Tanner

“Blessed is the person who has earned the love of an old dog”. – Sidney Jeanne Seward

I am always honored to be trusted to photograph an end of life pet photo shoot, as I know how important these images are to the pup’s family. It’s an even bigger compliment when you’re capturing memories for a fellow photographer!

This is Tanner and his fluffy sibling, Sadie. Their owner (the wonderfully talented Jacqueline Marie ) contacted me for a session when Tanner's health started to fail. When you're an 18-year-old dog, you have to treat every day as a gift, so we got them in for my earliest available appointment. Once I met Tanner, it was easy to see just how much his family loves him, and the joy he brings to their lives. They all have a special connection that is just palpable in every photo.

Westerville, Ohio, End of Life Pet Photography Session - Twinkle the Boston Terrier

Twinkle’s owner reached out to me as soon as she received some devastating health news about her furry family member. Less than 24 hours later, Twinkle was in front of my lens for her special photoshoot. Twinkle passed away at home, surrounded by family, shortly after our session. I am glad that we had this chance to make a few last happy memories in the time she had left with us, and grateful to Twinkle’s family for trusting me with such an important shoot.

Twinkle’s owner found me through The Tilly Project, a network that connects pet owners with photographers who provide End of Life (EoL) pet photography services for cases just like Twinkle’s. EoL sessions are such an incredibly valuable gift that you can give yourself and your loved ones. I keep time reserved in my schedule every week specifically for cases like this where owners aren’t sure how much time their dog has left and/or are dealing with tough decisions around the declining health of their best friend. If you find yourself in this situation and would like to book your own EoL Pet Photo shoot, contact me today and I will be in touch ASAP.

Columbus, Ohio Pet Photography Session - Twix and Tanner the Mini Poodles

Twix and Tanner the miniature poodles came to me for a summer sunset session at Clintonville's Whetstone Park of Roses. The park is in full bloom right now, which makes for some amazing, colorful backdrops! Park of Roses is one of my favorite parks, as there are so many great spots to shoot here, so you can get lots of different looks.

Just a reminder: if you book a pet photo shoot with me in July ‘22, a portion of your session fee will be donated to Stop the Suffering Animal Rescue of Ohio. I have one opening remaining, so if you'd like to get your dog in for a photo shoot, send me a message today!

Westerville, Ohio, Pet Photography Session - Babe and Sparkles at Heritage Park

Babe the Shih Tzu mix was all smiles for her photoshoot. Babe's bubbly personality makes it so you can’t help but smile when you see her. Although our shoot was focused mostly on Babe, her furry sibling, Sparkles, shared in the limelight for a few shots. Sparkles is a sweet, blind, Cavalier mix who wasn't impressed with the super model life and opted for being pushed around in her stroller like the queen she is instead.

We shot at Everal Barn and Homestead in Westerville, taking advantage of all the great landscaping and seasonal colors. What I love most about this park, however, is that there’s a perfect little hill that allows us to get slightly above the treeline so that we have wide open view of the sky for sunset shoots. While the sun went behind clouds during most of our shoot, we still got a gorgeous, colorful sunset to take advantage of at the end of our session.

If you need more Babe in your life, her owners have an Instagram account for her! https://www.instagram.com/lilmissbaberescuedog/

Westerville, Ohio, Pet Photography Session - Lola the Cocker Spaniel

Lola came to me for a session when her owner received a pet photography gift certificate for Mother’s Day. This sweet senior Cocker lady is blind, but that doesn’t slow her down. She was super outgoing and loving, and your best friend if you gave her cuddles and booty scratches. It just goes to show that even if your pet has an impairment, we can still get amazing photos during your shoot. Lola’s owner even brought along a little flower crown for her session, which was the perfect finishing touch for this queen.