What a handsome dog. French bull dogs, Frenchies as they are called, have a long history that started in England, made it’s way to France and then on to America. Now this little cutie thrives in Arizona with his dedicated owner.

It is amazing how varied dog breeds are. Apparently, a Frenchie really enjoys spending time with people, doesn’t need an excessive amount of exercise (just enough to stay healthy) and has a really hard time breeding. A C-section is usually used for delivering their puppies. Wow.

This little guy was a happy participant in his portrait session. A natural, really photogenic! It is just pure fun photographing a dog in a park – especially one that is as cute as this four legged subject.

These two puppies are just beyond adorable! What a pleasure to photograph these two little Maltipoos at their lovely home in North Scottsdale. They were so well behaved, they didn’t even complain when Keith suggested that they jump in the drawer and pose for a picture or two. These two dogs just rolled with whatever Keith threw at them. And did a great job!

Dog photography can be very interesting. I guess it is similar to photographing children – you have to be prepared for just about anything. You must be ready at any moment to capture your picture. Instinct, timing and enlisting the help of the owner to call the dog’s name, wave a treat or just make a crazy noise will certainly help your cause.

A dog portrait session, much like a children’s portrait session is always a compelling adventure.

What a great idea – have a family portrait session and get dressed in your pajamas and slippers, set off streamers and celebrate New Year’s Eve. I love it!

We have seen this family grow – the little boy was just a tiny little baby when Keith first photographed this family. Every year when they are photographed, it is so beautiful to see how he and his sister have grown. They are such fun, beautiful children. It is so wonderful to watch this metamorphosis right in front of the camera.

This mom’s goal is to send out New Year’s cards – simply a great idea in my mind!

This year we are also sending out New Year’s cards – I love the idea. Partially because I can be a procrastinator. But I’ll blame it on this being our busiest time of the year. Whether you are a children’s family portrait photographer inundated (I say that with a huge smile on my face) with holiday sessions or a mom trying to get things in order for the holidays – this is such a busy time time of the year. I think New Year’s cards are such a stress reliever. No pressure. You don’t need to have them to their final destination by New Year’s Day – you just need to have them where they are going sometime early in the new year!

Happy 2011!

There’s nothing we love more than when the phone rings (or the email bings) and it is a family wanting a portrait session with their dog (or other four legged friends). I love this pit bull, a striking subject and a dedicated family member.

This family has the desert as their back yard – such amazing scenery!

When a client contacts us for a dog portrait – we usually get asked the question: “Where should the session take place?” Our answer is: “Wherever your dog (or pet) is most comfortable”. It is really important to decide on a setting that suits your dog’s personality. If your dog is a couch potato, then an indoor session at home is in order. A dog that has a lot of energy will feel carefree being outside, whether it be their favorite park, your back yard or a desert trail.

Dogs don’t usually stay put for too long, we are always prepared for a great action shot or a portrait that displays your dog’s expression and personality. Figure out a dog’s tendencies and take advantage! A great shot is sure to follow.

Hi All,

Here are a few shots from the other day. I had the distinct pleasure of working with a wonderful couple that really love their dogs. I can easily relate as I was raised with a seemingly endless parade of dogs. I am currently dad to a 10 year old Jack Russell Terrier named “Pooch” as well as my two bi-pedal girls. Pooch is my first born and commands the respect of her two younger sisters. I can’t imagine them growing up without a dog to love. I believe that a good relationship with pets from a young age in addition to nurturing parents (or parent in my case), helps foster empathy. While there are many instances where this has not been true, I do feel that it can be a factor. Regardless of whether or not I am correct, dogs are awesome!

Sincerely,

Keith

We have been fortunate to know this family going on two years now – and this is their second go around with holiday pictures!  What I love the most is how these two children interact with one another, they are genuinely nice ( a great reflection on their wonderful parents!).  I can imagine how the older brother will really look out for his younger sister throughout their lives – this first picture just shows how much little sister looks up to her brother – beautiful!

Hi All,

Here are a few shots of some happy kids I had the opportunity to photograph recently. They are lucky enough to have both a loving set of parents and an amazing backyard with just about everything a kid could want to play with. Not a bad start to life. Enjoy their happiness.

Sincerely,

Keith

Hi All,

Here is a sampling from a recent dog portrait session. It somewhat illustrates that flexibility is a good quality in anyone who wants to photograph dogs. They don’t always want to do what you had diagramed. A good photographer always walks away with something good even when things don’t go as planned. To use a football expression, you take what the defense gives you. It works for me anyway. What do you think?

Sincerely,

Keith