Last year we started fostering sweet little Pekingese dogs through a local rescue organization PNC Midwest and we have enjoyed every minute of it! We have Pekingese already so that is why we chose this breed. Not only do we get to meet and care for so many dogs waiting for adoption but we can provide love and shelter to one of thousands of homeless dogs just in our state alone. The only downside is parting with these sweet pups when they are taken into their new owner’s arms but it is the best feeling in the world to know they have found their forever home!

As a photographer I would always pull out my camera and take photos of the rescue dogs to share on social media in the hopes that it would increase their chances of being noticed and eventually adopted. A few months back I read this Huffington Post article on the significance of good photographs of rescue dogs because of the effect it can have on their exposure outside of the shelters and foster homes! I hadn’t noticed a difference in the fosters we had been taking in but I had taken photos of all of them and posted them on Facebook and Instagram and they were all adopted within weeks of being with us. But this article drew my attention to what a difference this could actually make and I got really excited to do more! I love finding ways to help and make a difference even if for only one cute little face and the lucky person that is able to know the unique and amazing companionship of a dog.

Tips for Photographing Shelter Dogs
~Natural light is best! It puts light in the eyes and on the face..this is especially true for dogs with dark fur and eyes! If you have to be indoors use a large window for light. Avoid the harsh light of flourescent ceiling lights and cell phone flashes. These do not flatter even the most gorgeous person or dog.
~Shoot with a wide aperture or Av mode (f1.8, 2.0) if using an SLR camera and land your focus on their eyes looking at the camera…you want the viewer to really see the dog and create a connection. And this will blur out distracting background elements and really put focus on the subject!
~Ask for help! Photographing energetic dogs is a team sport!
~Remember even ONE good photograph can provide enough exposure to lead to an adoption! And then SHARE, SHARE and SHARE again…social media is a very powerful tool. Our last foster, Maggie, travelled all the way to Michigan to be with her forever family.
~Get to it! These photos took me 5 minutes outside…you don’t have to foster a pet to offer your photography skills and time. Head to your local shelter or contact a rescue group and let them know what you have to offer and what a difference it can make for each and every dog waiting for the love and attention they all deserve.

“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” Josh Billings

This is Brooke…or as I call her when I’m snuggling on her, Brookie. She is approximately 5 years old and about 5-7lbs…and the happiest and cutest little Pekingese I’ve ever seen with a side of sass!! She is available for adoption through the rescue link above or contact me directly!