As the curtain falls on 2023, I’m looking back at a year filled with wagging tails, floppy ears, and countless moments of pure pet delight.
From goofy antics to heart-melting poses, my camera has been on a non-stop journey to capture the charm and charisma of our furry pals.
So, here are a few highlights of 2023 that made this year in pet photography one for the books!
In March, I was chosen to be a part of an international fundraising book project called, “Tails of the World”. Caitlin McColl, from Australia, is the creator behind this.
May-June 2023, I met and photographed ten incredible dogs, one cat & one rabbit from the southeast Minnesota area, each with a fascinating story. They’ll be featured in Tails of the World, coming out March 2024.
I was able to raise $800 to help Camp Companion Rescue located in Rochester, MN.
WOOFDA
2022 started off with my Woofda fundraising project and after months and months (well, over a year to be exact) it was finally published. Come June, we celebrated with a super fun book launch party, bringing together the adorable dog models and their families to snag their copies and indulge in some treats. To top it off, they got to strut their stuff down the “cat”walk while I read their pages. It was an absolutely fantastic day!
CHARLIE & HARRIET
In the middle of a playful puppy session, my daughter’s face lit up as she cradled the only female in the group. It was clear – she had found her new fur baby. Welcome to the family, Charlie! Bonus points: we got ourselves a new model, and I can’t get enough of Charlie’s adorable antics.
Now, let me share the tale of Harriet. My son brought her to us this summer, and let’s just say she’s quite the character. After a brief stint by the pond, Harriet decided our house was where the action was. She claimed a prime spot by the waterfall near our front door, turning it into her summer headquarters. Harriet took her job as the “guard duck” seriously, especially when it came to delivery drivers. When not on duty, she’d be at the window, eagerly waiting for morning pets. She fearlessly held her ground even when Nellie, my son’s Golden Retriever and self-proclaimed duck retriever, was doing a session. I had to step in and return her to her waterfall sanctuary. No fear. (And she was fine!)
As for Harriet’s winter adventures in Minnesota, she’s living it up on a farm surrounded by cows, chickens, cats, and a dog (sharing the chicken coop). According to her co-parent (let’s call her Nicole), she’s got a sassy side. No surprise there! While I make my monthly visits with treats, we’re counting down the days until Harriet returns in the warmer weather. Truth be told, we can’t help but miss her spunky charm.
TAILS OF ROCHESTER
“Tails of Rochester” is more than just a fundraising book—it’s your passport to the heart of Rochester, MN. It serves as a unique guide, highlighting local spots, businesses, and landmarks, all adorned with the charming presence of pets in each frame.
As of January 2024, I’ve completed around 60 sessions, with many more eagerly waiting their turn. The waitlist is buzzing with anticipation, filled with pets and their owners hoping to be featured in this pet-centric showcase. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of featuring some wonderful dogs from Paws & Claws Humane Society, aiming to play a role in helping them find their forever homes.
It’s undoubtedly a significant task, but the end result promises to be a meaningful tribute to the pets and the community they call home.
TRAVEL/EDUCATION
I’m part of the most fantastic mastermind group (Cheryl Hornbaker from sitstaysmile.studio and Janet Liu from janetiliu.com), and I’m truly grateful for it—not a day goes by where we aren’t collaborating and checking in. They’ve been invaluable.
In January, we gathered in sunny San Diego for a week of brainpower blending and many beach sessions (one with the famous Derby from Amazon’s The Pack). It’s called, Bark at the Ocean. Ideas bouncing around, mutual assistance on tap, and even a Zoom meeting with our business coach extraordinaire, Heather Lahtinen from The Flourish Academy. Heather’s got this magical touch on mindset, and let me tell you, we left feeling like a pack of inspired wizards.
Fast forward to September, and I found myself in the lively city of Las Vegas for Shutterhound—The Conference, hosted by the dynamic duo of Dog Breath Photography, Kaylee Greer and Sam Haddix. Who was there? None other than the O.G. of pet photography, William Wegman! Listening to him spin tales about his pet photography escapades was like getting an extra scoop of ice cream on an already awesome day.
Three delightful days surrounded by top pet photographers in the industry—now that was something. I came home with a heart full of inspiration, ready to turn every wag and whisker into a masterpiece.
MORE EDUCATION & AWARDS
Embracing the lifelong learner vibe has always been my plan, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. 2023 was a whirlwind of learning adventures—I became a certified pet loss grief specialist, dove into not one but two studio courses, and proudly earned the title of a level 3 Dog Photography Master. It was a bit of a journey, taking just under a year to complete. Video classes, quizzes, and editing images to be critiqued and passed were needed to receive that certificate.
Next, I submitted images to AIM (Animal Image Makers) and the International Pet Photographer of the Year.
My jaw hit the floor when they called my name for 2nd place in the action category for AIM—an international competition, no less. There may or may not have been a tear or two shed! I also entered some images into the International Pet Photographer of the Year Awards, where a panel of judges critiqued every pixel. The result? Three silvers and two bronze awards! My heart was doing cartwheels! Always hustling to level up my game, because delivering professional-level images to my clients is what it’s all about.
AS SEEN HERE
In July, I got to chat with Kamie Roesler, the delightful host of Midwest Access on KTTC News (and FOX47) . With photographer extraordinaire Chuck Sibley in tow, we wandered around my property, and I spilled the beans on some of my favorite tips for capturing pet perfection.
And then, after a session at the Post Bulletin with the oh-so-adorable Romana, a Welsh Pembroke Corgi, John Moleseed (also Romana’s dad!) asked if I would like to be featured in an article. The interview took place at Cafe Steam and I found myself fielding the most thought-provoking questions about pet photography. They really made me put on my thinking cap, and it was like peeling back the layers of why I do what I do. Best questions ever!
NEW INDOOR STUDIO
In March, we took a big step and transformed our 24’x36′ gym into my indoor studio/showroom/office. Let me tell you, this space is my haven—it’s like my own little paradise. I had been using it as a studio prior—I don’t miss taking everything down & putting it back up.
Not only is it my personal sanctuary, but it also offers a warm welcome to clients after their sessions. They can enjoy some treats and explore the array of stunning artwork choices in person, making it a more personal experience.
This spacious setup accommodates two areas for studio sessions, complete with a variety of colored backdrops and props for smaller animals. It’s a necessary haven during the chilly Minnesota winters, providing a comfortable indoor option for pet sessions.
So grateful for 2023 and looking forward to 2024!
