End of Life Pet Photography: What to Expect During Your Dog's Session

A bittersweet moment of an owner saying goodbye to her dog during and end of life pet photography session

Dogs are treasured family members who give us daily reminders to find joy in the little things in life. They’re by our side through thick and thin with a gentle nudge and tail wags when we need it most. While we all want our pets to live forever, unfortunately one day we must say goodbye.

It can be overwhelming when your dog receives a terminal diagnosis or you’re facing a heartbreaking decision around their declining quality of life. With all the emotions and stress going on, booking an end of life pet photography session is probably not top of mind, (which is understandable!) But one blessing in disguise from knowing your time together is limited is that it provides an opportunity to be intentional about making a few last beautiful memories together. End of Life pet photography is a maningful way to pay tribute to your dog’s legacy by capturing their essence and the incredible bond you share.

I want to ensure your session is as stress-free as possible. For pet owners, knowing what to expect helps alleviate some anxiety and makes the process smooth. Below you’ll find the most frequently asked questions I receive about End of Life Pet photography and what you can expect during your dog’s session.

What is End of Life Pet Photography?

End of Life (EoL) photo sessions are for dogs that have received a terminal health diagnosis or are in need of compassionate euthanasia. Just as every dog’s situation is different, so is every session. These sessions are tailored to your dog’s individual needs and abilities, which means their comfort and dignity is at the forefront of everything we do. Some families use their session to do a few of their dog’s favorite things before they pass as a sort of doggy bucket list! Whether your session is a quiet hang-out in your back yard or an adventurous romp through the park, you’ll come away with one-of-a-kind photographic works of art of your pet. Many people find peace and closure through these sessions, as it provides a dedicated time and a place to acknowledge the grief around your pet’s transition. I am here to help by turning it into something beautiful through photography. These meaningful photos also bring a sense of comfort to owners once their dog has crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

“We don’t know how much time we have, how quickly can we schedule?”

These sessions are often last-minute, as dogs are so great at hiding pain from us that sometimes by the time you suspect something is wrong, they are already in their final few days with us. Because of the urgent nature of these sessions, I keep time set aside in my schedule every week specifically for EoL clients, and am able to get most pet owners in for an EoL photo shoot within 48 hours of contacting me.

“Can I be included in the photos with my dog?”

You’re more than welcome to join your dog in front of the camera (though it is not a requirement for End of Life photography). One bonus of being in the photos with your dog is that you’re right next to them to comfort them during the session, and they can help you relax in front of the camera too—it’s a win-win.

“Do I need to wait until my dog is about to pass for an EoL Session?”

If there’s one piece of advice I could give to dog owners it’s: DO NOT WAIT! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard from regretful families who thought they had more time with their pet, and their pup ends up passing away before they even get around to contacting me. There is no such thing as “too early” to book a session. In fact, the earlier the better! Your pet is more likely to still be acting/looking like their normal selves at the begging of a diagnosis, and that may change quickly. With some illnesses like cancer, your pet may not look same toward the end of their life. Most owners want the photos to show their pup as their “normal” selves, capturing the way they looked and acted most of their life, rather than the way they were for their last few days on this earth. Sometimes at the end of a dog’s life they may no longer be able to stand or walk, eat or drink, control their bodily functions, or are in pain, so please do not wait to schedule. Of course life is unpredictable and pets can go downhill quickly. I will do whatever I can to accommodate your pet and provide you both with a positive and stress-free experience.

“Where will my dog’s photo shoot take place?”

Most clients prefer to have their End of Life pet photography session at one of the many beautiful parks in the Columbus, Ohio area. I will give you some park recommendations that generally have fewer other people walking around, in order to give us some privacy. I’ll also make my recommendations based on your dog’s abilities. My top priority will be making sure your dog is comfortable. As a result, it usually means that these sessions minimize the amount walking required. On the flip side, if your pet is still feeling great and is able to get around well, it also provides us with the opportunity to incorporate some of their favorite things into your session, like splashing in the creek, eating their favorite treats, or playing with their favorite toy to give them one more tail-wagging adventure together.

“What if my dog is too unwell to travel or leave home?”

While photographing at a park is great, there are some situations where you may not be able to transport your dog. For those cases, an at-home End of Life photo session might be a good fit for your pet. Whether it’s lounging in your yard or chilling on the couch, we can still capture beautiful photos of your dog at home without putting him through the stress of a car ride. There may be a small mileage fee for at-home sessions depending on where you are located. Contact me for a quote

“How do you ensure my pet is comfortable during the session?”

The most important thing in an EoL photography session is your dog’s comfort. We will work together to do whatever we can to accommodate them. Whether that’s bringing along a soft dog bed for them to lay on during the session, bringing a wagon full of blankets for them to ride around in so they don’t have to do any walking, or simply making sure they have plenty of cool water and shade available to hang out in during our photo shoot. Before your session we will chat about your dog’s abilities and their unique needs. We’ll also discuss their triggers to make sure we avoid those kinds of things during our photo shoot. We will work at your dog’s pace, and I will never pressure them into a stressful situation. I want to make sure it’s a tail-wagging experience from beginning to end.

“How do you handle the highly sensitive and emotional nature of the session?”

I know firsthand the devastating heartbreak of losing your furry best friend. I lost my soul-dog, Stoli, unexpectedly a few weeks shy of his 5th birthday. Coping with his loss was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, and although it’s been a decade since he passed, I still think of him every day. While I never had the chance to take EoL photos together with him before he died, I do have an older photo of him hanging in my home. Seeing his happy face helps bring me a smile when I think of him. So, all of this is to say that I know the pain you’re going through and how incredibly precious these photos are.

EoL sessions are absolutely judgement-free. This is a sacred time together for you and your dog. Whatever feelings you have are valid, and you don’t need to justify or hide those emotions from me. Heck, I’ll probably be tearing up behind the camera along with you! While the nature of end of life pet photography may feel inherently sad, many owners find the experience actually ends up being much more joyful than they expected. Owners faces always light up when talking about their dog, and every session ends up with genuine moments of laughter, because dogs are the best at getting us to smile.

During our time together we can chat about the things you love about your dog or your favorite memories together. I can lend a sympathetic ear to listen to what you’re pet is going through and how you’re coping. Or we can simply enjoy our time together in silence if you prefer. It is completely up to you how you’d like your session to go.

“How do I prepare for my dog’s photo shoot?”

Before your session, I will be in touch with some tips for preparing for your shoot. We’ll discuss your pet’s abilities, their likes and dislikes, and I’ll provide you some suggestions on how to make sure your dog has a comfortable experience. I also have an extensive FAQ page to help answer some of the most common questions I hear from pet owners and you can also take a look at Your Experience to get more details on what you can expect before, during, and after our photo shoot.

“How long does an end-of-life pet photo shoot typically last?”

While each package I offer comes with a different amount of shooting time, I also understand that sometimes at this point in your pet’s journey they don’t have the stamina for a regular-length photo shoot, and that’s ok! Since we’ll work at your dog’s pace, if he is totally “over” the experience, I will not push him to keep posing for me. Usually in these cases it’s best to let your dog rest and relax. I can also use a telephoto lens and put some distance between me and your dog so you can just hang out and relax in the grass with your dog while I snap away from a distance. Of course I understand if your dog needs to go home early, and will not be offended if we need to cut the session short. I’ve never come away from a session not having enough images (in fact I usually have TOO MANY to choose from,) so there is no need to worry about us not getting any shots. On the flip side, if your pet ends up requiring more time to complete the session you will not be charged for the additional time.

“How do I book my dog’s End of Life Photo Session?”

The first step is to fill out my new client questionnaire here. This gives me an idea of how to prepare for your dog’s session and what special considerations we may need. I will be in touch ASAP to get you scheduled. Most people are able to get in within about 48 hours.

Kamden's Dog and Owner Photo Shoot with Columbus Ohio’s Premiere Pet Photographer

Your pup’s quirky antics and fun-loving disposition deserve to shine in a professional pet photography session. As an experienced dog photographer, I know how to bring out your pup’s unique personality so that it totally shines through in the photos. Whether your dog is goofy or serious, outgoing or shy, laid-back or energetic, I can capture it all. It’s that versatility that means that we can let your dog do whatever he wants during our time together, and you’ll walk away with jaw-dropping pet portraits after every session! As a testament to versatility in pet photography, I give you Kamden the Golden Doodle’s dog and owner photo shoot which had it all! Posed portraits, action shots, stunning sunsets, cute candids, and more.

While Kamden’s dog momma wanted the photo shoot to mainly focus on him by himself to celebrate his birthday, she also wanted to be sure we captured a couple candid shots of dog and owner together as a tribute to the beautiful friendship they have. There were so many sweet moments to capture; they made my job easy! I loved hearing about their story and how Kamden has been by his mom’s side through lots of big moments in life including a few moves across the country for work. It’s another great reminder that our dogs are there for us through thick and thin, offering unconditional love and endless tail wags when we need them most. A dog and owner photo shoot is a beautiful way to capture a visual legacy of your life together. These images are not just photos; they’re one-of-a-kind works of art of you and your dog.

I think Kamden’s favorite part of his pet photo shoot was playing in the creek! The cool water didn’t faze him one bit. He splashed, leaped, and had an absolute blast. Whether standing still for a regal pose or mid-splash in action shots, Kamden showed off his playful yet composed personality like a professional dog model!

This location was the perfect spot for a dog photo shoot in the Columbus area. Having access to the creek, the slate cliffs, and colorful autumn leaves, meant we were certain to get amazing shots of an adventurous dog surrounded by the natural beauty of central Ohio. There’s just something so magical about incorporating water into your pet photography session—especially when it means your water-loving pup is having the time of his life like Kamden here!

After photographing in the creek bed, we moved to a tall prairie grass field area. This allowed us to get another background that looked really different from the photos we did in the creek. We started off with some more posed portraits of Kamden with the fall colors of the field.

In addition to the candid photos, Kamden’s owner also wanted to get one nice formal posed portrait of her and her dog together for their Christmas card. While we didn’t have snow on the ground for a truly Christmas-y look, this dry prairie grass made for a nice neutral winter background with the warm golden hues from the setting sun shining through. I think this was the perfect dog and owner portrait for their Christmas card.

Which Photo Is Your Favorite?

Kamden gave us so many fantastic shots that it’s hard to choose a favorite. Do you love the elegant, posed portraits? Or the joyful, splash-filled action moments best?

If you’re looking for the best pet photographer in Ohio for your dog and owner photo shoot, look no further! I would love to capture some beautiful portraits of your and your dog. Whether your pet is a calm poser or an energetic explorer, we’ll show their unique personality in every photo.

Dog Adoption Photo Shoot: Ed and Ellie in Columbus, Ohio

Congratulations to Ed and Ellie who were recently adopted into the same amazing family! Their new family came to me for a fun "Gotchya Day” photo shoot to celebrate finalizing their adoption. Both of these sweet pups' stories tugged at my heart strings.

Ellie: From Toyless to Treasure Keeper

When Ellie the yellow lab was picked up from her previous owner, her new family was told she wasn’t interested in toys—and she had never even had one. Can you imagine? Fast forward to today, Ellie is all about her toys! She loves them so much that she carries one with her everywhere she goes. (I made sure to snap a picture as adorable proof that she’s making up for lost time!)

Ed: One Senior Dog’s Journey Home

Ed ended up at the shelter after his owner passed away. The future was not looking so great for this deaf 13 year old senior. That is until an amazing foster family stepped in and gave him a nice place to crash while he went through heartworm and Lyme disease treatment. His foster family fell in love with his gentle and loving demeanor, and they knew he was right where he was meant to be, so made things official by adopting him.

I am so happy that Ed and Ellie hit the jackpot with their new family, and will spend the rest of their days living like the king and queen they are.

Book Your Gotcha Day Session Today!

Adoption stories like Ed and Ellie’s remind us of the transformative power of opening your heart and home to a new pet. If you’ve recently welcomed a pet into your home or want to celebrate a special milestone, I’d love to help you tell their story. Contact me today to schedule your own pet photography session in Columbus, Ohio!

Dog and Owner Christmas Card Photo Shoot - Stevie

A sweet candid moment of Stevie and her mom together during a Central Ohio Dog and Owner Photo shoot.

A few moths back Stevie’s mom contacted me to set up a photo shoot for the Golden doodle’s 1st birthday. Here’s the link in case you missed that post: Dog Birthday Photo Shoot

We had such a blast during our time together at her summer session that Stevie’s mom decided to do another shoot to capture some fun dog and owner photos for their Christmas card. Although, I think Stevie misheard us and thought we were saying “funny Christmas card photos” instead.

From the moment Stevie arrived, she brought the energy. Instead of the calm, posed portrait vibes her mom might have envisioned, Stevie brought the comedy! Her signature kangaroo hops had her bouncing down the creek on two legs.

Just look at that cheesy smile. You just KNOW she thought she was the star of the show! Of course, no photo shoot would be complete without some unexpected moments. For Stevie, it was the discovery of a pile of horse poo. Let’s just say she was absolutely enchanted by it. We had to work hard to redirect her attention (and keep her from getting too cozy with it), but her magnetic draw to it had us in stitches.

Despite Stevie's antics—or perhaps because of them—we captured some truly beautiful moments. Her playful personality and the bond she shares with her mom really shone through. And honestly, isn’t that what a Christmas card photo should reflect? The love, laughter, and goofiness that makes every family unique.

Stevie, you’re an absolute goofball, and I love it. Thanks for making this pet and person photo shoot one to remember. I can’t wait to see how those Christmas cards turn out—horse poo and all!

Thinking about a fall photo session with your own pup?
Whether your dog is a natural model or a certified goofball like Stevie, I’d love to help you capture their unique personality. Reach out today to book your session!

Ohio Adventure Dog Photography - Teddy's Creek Session

Teddy the dog was ready for his close-up during his adventurous outdoor pet photography session.

I just love a dog who's not afraid to get their feet wet—it makes a photo shoot so much more fun! There’s something special about capturing a pup’s pure joy as they play in the water, and it creates the most vibrant and dynamic photos. One of my recent shoots with Teddy, an adventurous pup, was a perfect example of this.

Meet Teddy: The Creek-Splashing Superstar

Teddy came ready to play. We headed out to a picturesque hiking spot with a gently flowing creek surrounded by the rich, golden hues of autumn. As soon as Teddy saw the water, his eyes lit up, and I knew we were in for a great time. It’s always a treat when a dog is willing to explore new environments, and Teddy was all about it—no hesitation, just excitement.

Why Water Makes for Great Photos

There’s a certain magic that happens when dogs play in water. The way it splashes around them, how it reflects the light and colors from the scene, and the added movement—it all comes together to create visually stunning images. In Teddy’s case, the cool creek and the surrounding fall foliage gave us a beautiful natural backdrop. The vibrant colors reflected off the water, adding a warm glow to every shot. It was the perfect setting for photographing the spirit of an adventurous dog.

Capturing the Moment

Teddy wasted no time diving right in. He immediately got in the water the moment he saw it, splashing and chasing after leaves floating by. His joyful energy was infectious, making the session not only fun for him and his owner, but for me as the pet photographer as well. Some of my favorite shots from the day were of Teddy mid-splash, with water droplets frozen in time around him. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do—being able to capture the soul of a dog in their most authentic state.

Tips for a Water Photo Shoot with Your Dog

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast considering a professional photo shoot for your water-loving dog, here are a few pro-tips:

• Bring Towels: It’s always a good idea to have a towel or two on hand for a quick dry-off afterward.

• Pick a Safe, Dog-Friendly Spot: Opt for creeks, shallow streams, or lake where your dog can safely play without or strong currents. I have a list of great dog-friendly spots in the Columbus, Ohio area that have been the perfect locations for for these types of sessions. Don’t want to have to hike to get to a spot? I’ve got you covered! I even have some water options that are just mere steps from a parking lot.

• Let Your Dog Lead the Way: Some dogs may be hesitant at first, so let them explore at their own pace. We will NEVER push or pressure your dog into the water. If they decide to jump right in like Teddy, then great! If they prefer to stay on the edge, that’s perfectly fine too.

• Dress Appropriately: Chances are, you might get a little wet too. I recommend owner’s wear water-proof footwear such as rain boots, hiking boots, or even sandals. Wearing clothing that is safe to get wet is also important (so probably best to leave the cashmere sweaters and dry clean-only pants at home for this one).

Why Adventure Dog Photo Shoots Are Perfect for Outdoor Lovers

For dog owners who love to hike and explore nature, an adventure dog photo shoot is a fantastic way to capture your pet’s playful personality in their favorite environment. Imagine having professional photos of your dog splashing in a creek, running through forest trails, or posing against a scenic Appalachian foothills backdrop. These types of sessions are perfect for capturing the unique bond between you and your dog while incorporating something special that you both love.

If you’ve got a dog who loves swimming hiking, or simply exploring new places, let’s talk!

To request your dog’s photo shoot, click the link below to get started by filling out my new client questionnaire. Your answers help me to make sure your session runs as smoothly as possible, ensuring everyone has a positive experience. Once I receive your request, I will be in touch with you within 2 business days to chat about the available days and times I have open, as well as suggest a few photo shoot locations for you to choose from that I feel would be a good fit for your pet based on their personality, abilities, and the type of images you’re looking for. Book your shoot today—adventure awaits!

Columbus Ohio Rescue Dog Photography - Macy from FCDS

I like to think that as one final act of love after a pet crosses the Rainbow Bridge, they guide your next dog to you from the other side. I think that's how Macy here found her way into Mike and Nora's home. After losing their beloved pup Rajah last year, they decided it was finally time to open their hearts to another dog. Since they had adopted Rajah from the Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center shelter (FCDS), they wanted to find their next pet there as well.

Macy’s journey to FCDS was a difficult one. After her previous owner was arrested and facing a lengthy jail sentence, the police brought Macy to FCDS. But everything changed the day Nora and Mike met her; there was an instant connection, and they knew she was meant to be part of their family.

Despite her rough start, Macy is unbelievably sweet and trusting. You might notice her slightly quirky expression—veterinarians believe she may have been hit in the face quite hard, an injury that broke off all the teeth on one side of her face and caused nerve damage, leading to some facial paralysis.

I’m constantly amazed by the resilience of dogs. Despite all the trauma she’s been through, Macy waddled right up to me with a wagging tail, eager to say "hello." She stayed by my side, happily munching on treats while I captured her beautiful spirit through my lens.

Every rescue dog has a story worth telling, and professional pet photography is a wonderful way to preserve that story for years to come. Macy’s photos not only showcase her beauty and spirit but also highlight the importance of adopting dogs from a shelter like FCDS. These photos aren’t just about capturing cute moments; they’re about celebrating resilience, second chances, and the powerful bond that comes with rescuing a dog.

Why Choose Professional Photos for Your Rescue Dog?

Professional photos of rescue dogs help capture their unique journey and give you lasting memories of the joy they bring to your life. If you’ve adopted a rescue dog or are considering it, a rescue dog photoshoot in Columbus, Ohio can be the perfect way to celebrate them. Whether they’ve had a tough past or are just beginning a new chapter, every adopted dog deserves to be celebrated for who they are today.

If you’re interested in professional photography for your adopted dog, I would be honored to help you capture those precious memories. From shelter dogs to rescue pups, every dog has a story to tell, and every moment is worth remembering. Follow the link below to book your dog’s photo shoot now!

Adventure Dog Photography: Epic Outdoor Corgi Photo Shoot

For outdoor lovers, there’s nothing quite like hitting the trail with your furry friend by your side. Recently, I had the perfect reminder of why I love combining pet photography with outdoor adventures. You’ve never seen a dog enjoy a hike like this! 💦 🐕 📸 A couple of weeks ago, I took my dog, Brisket, hiking at one of my favorite local spots. The only problem? I didn’t bring my real camera and regretted it the entire time. I was dying inside every time we passed a beautiful spot, especially when the light was perfectly golden. I knew I had to go back.

So, on our next visit, I overcompensated by bringing not only my camera but also a light to capture the fun. With the extreme drought we’ve been experiencing here in Ohio, the creek that’s usually a couple of feet deep had almost dried up, leaving just an inch or two of water in most spots. It was the perfect place for my corgi, Brisket, to stomp around—stubby legs and all—while I snapped photos!

This is exactly what makes outdoor pet photography so special. Letting your dog’s adventurous spirit run wild, just like Brisket did in the creek. Whether your pup is splashing through the water or exploring new trails, those natural, carefree moments tell the best stories and showcase your dog in their element.

From Hocking Hills to Battelle Darby Creek, I love creating photo sessions that feel more like an outdoor adventure. Maybe your dog is a fearless explorer, leading the way on every path, or perhaps they love to take their time, sniffing every plant and rock along the way. Each dog brings their own unique energy, and that’s what makes these sessions so exciting. The changing seasons, the beautiful light, and the diverse scenery—everything comes together to create moments that are completely one-of-a-kind. Every adventure deserves to be remembered, and what better way to the story of your dog’s wild heart?

Ready to hit the trail with your furry trailblazer? Reach out, and we’ll make it an unforgettable experience! Click here to get started!

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A look behind the scenes

2-Dog Photo Shoot with People : Ellie and Harrison’s New Albany Pet and Family Session

Capturing the Heartwarming Bond Between Ohio’s Dogs and Their People

Ellie the Golden Retriever and Harrison the Doodle mix made for quite the dynamic doggy duo at their photo shoot. Ellie's total happy-go-lucky goofball personality perfectly complemented Harrison's super chill Bob Ross vibes. It was a joy to witness and capture the unique bond these two dogs share with each other and their adoring pet parents during our pet and family photography session.

This couple wanted to make sure we captured their dog’s personalities with this photo shoot. I think it’s safe to say that Ellie and Harrison's souls shine through in every shot. Between Ellie’s joyful leaps and silly expressions, and Harrison’s calm and collected demeanor, we got a ton of gorgeous images. Their owners were equally wonderful to work with, and it was a pleasure to be a part of capturing the love and joy they share.

If your dog is your ride-or-die, then including them in your family pictures is a no-brainer. They’re a much-loved family member! Your session is your chance to celebrate and forever freeze those fleeting moments of affection, joy, and companionship.

As Columbus, Ohio’s best pet photographer, I specialize in capturing the special connections between pets and their people. Just as every dog is different, so is every photo shoot! Custom pet photography means I tailor your shoot specifically to you and your dog. Before your session we will chat about the type of images you’re looking for, your dog’s individual needs, abilities, personality and quirks. We’ll also discuss the locations we could use for our shoot as well as see if there is any special occasion you’re celebrating. Whether you’re marking a happy milestone like your dog’s birthday, celebrating the adoption of a new puppy, or simply wanting to capture the daily happiness your dog brings into your life, a professional pet photo shoot is the perfect way to do so. This couple wanted to celebrate their wedding anniversary with a fun summer photo shoot together with their furry friends. They wanted to to tell the story of their little family as well as create some dramatically-lit colorful portraits to turn into canvas print wall art for their new home.

Since your session is tailored to you, if there’s something special you’d like to capture (like a cute trick, or your dog playing with their favorite toy), let me know! There are lots of fun and unique ways to incorporate these little details into your shoot in order to truly make your photos unique.

Not only will we capture the natural beauty of your dog by themselves, but I’ll document the bond you share as well. During your session, we will have plenty of opportunities to capture candid moments as well. I love being able to freeze these sweet, quiet moments of owners together with their dogs forever. Beautiful candid shots are a great representing of your relationship and the depth of your bond. Often these unscripted scenes end up being the owner’s favorite, as they tend to really show genuine emotions and don’t feel “stuffy” or posed like traditional family photos that you would get from a people-photographer (rather than a professional pet photographer).

Whether you’re in Westerville, Dublin, German Village, or anywhere else in the Columbus area, there are plenty of beautiful locations for a dog and owner photo shoot. We chose New Albany’s Rose Run Park for this portrait session location because we wanted to get a beautiful blend of natural scenes like the woods and the stream with some more man-made features like the brick bridge over the water. This picturesque location, with its lush greenery and serene atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of tail-wags and belly laughs.

Interested in family photos with your dog? Let’s talk!

Your first step is to request your photo shoot HERE . Once I receive your submission I will be in touch within 2 business days to discuss your session details.

Columbus End of Life Pet Photography - German Village's Abby the Boston Terrier

End of Life sessions are never easy, but this one definitely tugged at my heart strings--even now as I write this I am fighting the tears welling up in my eyes. I have a very special connection to this beautiful Boston Terrier; 6 years ago Abby was my foster dog through RESCUEDohio!! Abby had a rough start in life. She was failed by her previous humans, and came into the rescue as just skin and bones. She needed a little TLC to get back on her feet, but she had tons of love to give and a sunny disposition, which made it easy for anyone to fall in love with her. I did a little photo shoot with her in my studio to help her get adopted (the purple background photo below is from that shoot), and it worked!

A wonderful family adopted Abby into their home and gave her an amazing life. So when I recently received a message from her adopter saying Abby's health was rapidly failing, I knew I had to get there quickly to make sure we captured a few last memories for her family before she passes. We wanted to make ensure Abby was comfortable during our session, so we did our photos in the back yard of her home in the beautiful German Village area of Columbus.

I couldn’t believe how much more grey fur Abbey had compared to the last time I saw her! She almost looked like a different dog (especially when you compare this photo to the purple one!) But all that frosty grey hair is just a happy reminder of the many beautiful memories she’s made over the years with her loving family.

Abby’s aggressive brain tumor meant that she was no longer able to run and play, so we made sure her photo shoot was nice and relaxing. We let her lounge in the sun in her favorite chair while being fed treats, and watched as she sniffed in the German Village ivy before she decided on the perfect spot to lay down for a nap in the shade of an old oak tree.

Saying goodbye to a faithful friend is never easy—whether you’ve had 5 years together or 15, it still hurts to lose a much-loved pet. I'll be keeping Abby and her family in my thoughts as they make the most of their remaining time together.

And to Abby: my little “Spaghetti Frog”, I'm honored to have been able to help such a wonderful pup on their journey. You can run free knowing you've brought a lot of joy to the people who were lucky enough to have you in their lives.

Choosing the right Professional Pet Photographer in Columbus, Ohio, for your Dog’s End of Life Photo Shoot

When selecting an end of pet photographer it’s important to find someone who is not only highly skilled in pet photography, but also someone who is compassionate and understanding of the very sensitive nature of the session. This session is your time and place to make a few last memories with your pup, as well as process the emotions that come with saying goodbye to your lifelong friend.

As a professional pet photographer, I specialize in creating a personalized, dignified, and respectful experience for you and your dog during this difficult time. My goal is to help you celebrate your pet’s life with images that capture and preserve your dog’s memory forever, as well as provide you one last opportunity to make a few more special memories together they pass.

We all wish our dogs could live forever, but if you’re facing the heartbreaking reality of saying goodbye to your pet, please contact me today to book your session.

Columbus Pet and Family Photo Shoot - Logan the Frenchie

Dog and Owner Photo Shoot in Columbus, Ohio | © Holly Hildreth Photography

Logan, the silliest French Bulldog of them all, was a joy to photograph during his recent pet and family session. This super friendly pup is very loved by his family, and holds a special place in the heart of his dog-dad. Logan and his dad made the big move to Columbus, Ohio, from Puerto Rico and went through the difficult transition of starting anew so far from home. Logan played an important role in keeping his dad's spirits up by providing lots of love, laughs, and company during an otherwise stressful time. I can definitely relate. When I moved across the country to Columbus back in 2012, I knew absolutely no one here and only had my corgi by my side, so I completely understand how important our furry friends are in helping us get through the challenging seasons of life.

We did our photo shoot at Creekside Park in Gahanna, Ohio. We wanted to have a good mix of urban scenes as well as some natural backgrounds to give us lots of variety. I love using this park, as you don’t have to walk far to get lots of different looks during a session.

As it turns out, it doesn’t matter what the background or location it—Logan is going to do his best to give face licking kisses wherever he goes. This goofy boy and his inability to hold his licker let me get beautiful portraits of him with his family with genuine smiles and laughter, and helped keep the session fun and lighthearted.

Logan’s people also wanted to be sure we captured a shot of him wearing his Superman costume complete with a big red cape. This was such a fun shot—I love when we get to do unique and personality-filled photos like this. To get this shot I placed Logan on a large rock and then I laid down on the ground and aimed my camera up. This allowed me to get a great larger-than-life shot of Logan proudly showing off his costume while his cape billowed in the wind.

Incorporating special items into your pet photo shoot is a great way to make photos more meaningful and memorable—whether it’s a costume, special collar, favorite toy, or their favorite treat.