i got the shot photography

My Favorite Dog Collars

8/12/2022

It's no secret that I am a fashionista when it comes to dog collars. Housing many dogs over the years, I have purchased quite a number of different collars to try.

The main things I look for: SAFETY, WEARABILITY, COMFORT, FASHIONABLE--- with safety being the top priority.

Our dog lifestyle has evolved to using Martingale style collars for walks. While I tend to use a harness for travel purposes (because I have a seat belt connector that works with harnesses), once out of the car, I reconnect my lead to the martingale collar.

WHY MARTINGALE COLLARS?

The martingale is a type of collar that keeps dogs safely on-leash without choking them. They provide more control than a regular flat collar, while not allowing the dog to back or slip out of the collar itself. A martingale collar has a small loop of fabric, or chain, with a ring attached, as a part of the system.

The difference between a martingale collar and a choke collar is, a martingale collar is fitted to the dog's neck size and can only tighten to the width of the dog's neck, while a choke collar has no limit on how far it can tighten, and can harm a dog, especially smaller dogs.

Martingale collars were originally designed for Greyhounds, whose heads are smaller than their necks. These collars allowed Greyhound owners to keep their dogs safe and secure. They have become popular with owners of all breeds, and are recommended for owners whose dogs often back out of regular collars or harnesses.

Rescues often use martingales to transport dogs, alongside a flat collar, and dogs are double leashed.

So here, without further ado, are my THREE FAVORITE dog collars and companies.

1. RUFFWEAR

Talley is modeling the Ruffwear martingale collar in Seafoam. But we also have this collar in Sunset.

Ruffwear sells a martingale collar with or without a chain. The one with a chain is called their Chain Reaction collection, and the one Talley is wearing is their Web Reaction version. I can't say enough about these collars. They never look dirty, no matter what your dog gets into; they wash well, and the martingale releases quickly and easily when the dog releases pressure.

The collar is very affordable at $19.95 and also comes in Blue Dusk and Granite Gray. Check them out here.

Martingale Collars Are Very Safe and Do Not Allow Escape Artists to Wrangle or Back Out of Their Collars.

Ruffwear stands behind every product. If you are unhappy, or something happens to the collar, the company is quick to offer customer service options to replace the product. I have never had an issue with a Ruffwear product. I use their harnesses and leashes as well. One of my leashes is 7 years old and looks like new. I use it all the time.

2. HOT DOG COLLARS

I discovered this company in early 2022, tried their stylish martingale collars, and I love them.

A family-owned and operated small business located in North Carolina, Hot Dog Collars has 173 martingale collars to choose from, including a number of collections. They also personalize their products, should you choose to add a name or message to your collar.

The material is softer than the Ruffwear option, and the martingale portion gives up readily when pressure is released. One of the primary differences between the Hot Dog martingale and the Ruffwear, is that the Ruffwear collar comes with a buckle, so you do not have to loosen the collar to fit over a larger head, then resize it once on. But, this is a small issue, as the Hot Dog collars are easy to adjust once on the dog (no tugging, pulling, fighting to get the collar resized, due to the type of material used).

We own two Hot Dog martingale collars from their Flower Power collection. They wash up well, always look clean no matter what happens, and run about $12.99 on average. Your first order gets you 15% off, and the company often has sales across stock on their website.

Hot Dog Collars, Flower Power Collection

Talley wearing the Cherry Blossom collar from Hot Dog Collars.

3. BEAMER'S BARK IN STYLE (Formerly A Heart of Thread)

While we use martingale collars for walks, outings, events and training classes, our dogs typically switch to a regular flat collar at home, so I thought i would throw in my favorite place to buy flat collars, Beamer's Bark in Style.

The company is a small, woman-owned business, that only sells via their Facebook page. A pinned post from 2021 gives you instructions on how to order. Collars run anywhere from $12.00 - $20.00 depending on collar style and size ordered. Because they are custom made, there is a bit of a wait, but I have received most of my collar orders in two weeks time.

Alexa Vath, the owner, does many fundraising collar sales for dog rescue as well, and so I support her small business because she really has a heart of gold. Plus, the company is located in Pennsylvania.

The collars are festive (I love the summer series), comfortable, well-sewn, and the material seems to be indestructible. They look like new even after many washings, retaining their color right down to the buckle.

Alexa changed her business name when her original page was hacked on Facebook, and she could not retrieve it, but you will see that her ordering process is a safe one, and does protect your information.

Below are a few samples of summer collars I have ordered through Beamer's Bark in Style.

Colorful flat collars from Beamer's Bark in Style.

While the above three collar companies are my favorites, I want to mention that you can find martingale collars at any pet supply store, and Chewy has them as well.

In fact, below is the first martingale collar I ever purchased. It came through Chewy. It's a fine collar, too, and my favorite combination of colors. I will say that the material in this collar makes it a little harder to adjust on the dog.

BEST WAY TO WASH DOG COLLARS

Over the years, I have tried a number of methods to washing our dog collars. Depending on the level of dirt achieved by the wearer, I used this method:

soak in sink with dishwashing liquid in hot water for one hour
rinse in warm water
place in a laundry delicates bag
throw in washing machine with regular wash

Works every time! All of the collars you see here have been washed, and have held up to this method, coming out looking just like new!

Talley says: "Can we go for our walk now, Mom?" Sure can. Have a great weekend everyone!

CLICK INTO THE CIRCLE

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic (Favorite Things), start here with Courtney Bryson with CM Bryson Photography, as she shares a few of her favorite furry faces while giving you look at how she created her entry for Embark Dog Photography Challenge Number Two: Get Down - Photographing Dogs from Down Low.

Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer. Enjoy!

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3 Reasons to Choose a Mutt

7/29/2022

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Have you met a Heinz-57-Variety dog?
You know the ones that almost look like...well no, they look like...um, their ears remind you of...wait, that snout is definitely a...

Yep. I've met them, too.

When I was growing up, these dogs were called Mutts. They are still called Mutts today, but some people take offense over that moniker, and prefer to call them "mixed breeds."

Mutts are some of the best companions on the planet. There are many reasons why, but here's THREE.

1. Mutts Are Healthier

My grandfather would call the result of the pairing of two dogs from different breeds, a Mongrel. Purebred dogs stem from very controlled pairings of the same breed. However, Mutts looking up their family on Ancestry dot com, could find at least two or more different breeds in their lineage. Because of this single fact, Mutts are less predisposed to genetic disorders that are breed specific.

Example: When we had pet Golden Retrievers, our vet noted that the breed was prone to developing cancers, specifically lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma. We did, in fact, lose one of our Goldens to hemangiosarcoma at the age of 8, despite careful screening and yearly vet visits.

While disorders are still found in Mutts, they are not found at the rate they are diagnosed in purebred dogs. Mutts also tend to live longer lives than purebred dogs. The Canine Journal notes: "mutts who have at least two breeds and commonly more, tend to have the least health problems and live longer than their purebred counterparts."

Because of these factors, insuring a mixed=breed dog is often cheaper.

To check on some other breed-specific ailments, CLICK HERE.

2. Mutts Are Unique

Because a Mutt's background can be hard to trace, this questionable ancestry adds to their one-of-a-kind characteristics.

I love photographing Mutts. Every one of them that I meet is so very unique. Their one-of-a-kindness is endearing.

Fluffy mutt enjoying a summer evening on the dock.

Our Billie is a Mutt.

Everyone that meets her, comments on her unique coat and overall appearance.

She is also an award-winning model, as her photographs have merited in competition, and received a number of blue ribbons.

Her beauty is directly related to the fact that she is of mixed breeding, and has retained many of the most appealing characteristics of her ancestors.

Portrait of Billie - Wirehaired Terrier Mix

3. Over 75% of Shelter Dogs Are Mutts!

A few statistics.

Over half of the domesticated dogs-owned-by-people population are mixed breeds. Some came from accidental breedings of dogs that belonged to friends, neighbors or family members, but most were adopted from shelters.

So Mutts are readily available and are as near as your local shelter.

That is, in fact, where our Billie came from. She was a stray, and she was pregnant when the shelter took her in. Billie had six puppies at the shelter that looked VERY DIFFERENT than she did. She hasn't spilled the beans about the father.

Below is a collage I did, at the time we adopted Billie, of her puppies. We know the owners of two of her pups, but do not know who adopted the others. Billie was found wandering with her sister, Molly.

One Final Note

Aberdeen University researchers conducted intelligence tests on 100 dogs, both mutts and purebreds. The scientist used seven intelligence and psychology tests that included complex mazes, spatial awareness, and problem solving.

After the dogs performed the tasks, the results were compared. They concluded that, overall, mixed breed dogs are smarter than most purebred dogs.

We have been happy Mutt parents over the course of our dog-raising lives, and I can highly recommend checking out your local shelter to find your next loyal companion.

Click Into the Circle

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic, start here with Jessica Wasik of Bark & Gold Photography, taking you on a dog photography session at Sewickley Heights Borough Park with senior Border Collie/Saint Bernard Cody.

Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer.

Enjoy your weekend!

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Jobs for Border Collies

7/15/2022

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Back in June, I wrote a blog that featured working border collies. If you didn't get a chance to read it, or want a refresher, CLICK HERE.

I mentioned our dog, Piper, a Border Collie who joined our family in 2009. Piper was born deaf. Piper is a ball of electrical energy that needs unplugging daily. As he is almost 13 years old now, he may not be as fast as he was in earlier years, but he is ten times smarter.

You will often hear folks comment different things about different breeds, but the most common comment you will hear about Border Collies is: THEY NEED A JOB!

WANTED: BORDER COLLIE WHO NEEDS A JOB

Jobs for Border Collies are not going to be appearing in your local daily newspaper want ads, or in online headhunter forums.

If we translate and think of "jobs" as simply "something to do," it becomes much easier to structure a day for a Border Collie.

Something to do might look like this:
1. Fetch the ball (stick, frisbee, leash, my shoes, a soda from the frig, insert whatever here)
2. Find someone (the other person in the house, the cat, another dog, etc.)
3. Find something (a hidden favorite toy, shoe, treat, etc.)
4. Work on trick training (or any type of training that allows the Border Collie to use his/her brain)
5. Provide a doggy puzzle (hide treats under areas of the puzzle that the dog has to find)

The above are just a few examples beyond the norm of going to the park and going for a walk.

Border Collie at local dog park.

FULL TIME - PAY IS GREAT!

Because our Piper is deaf, we were unsure, at first, exactly what kind of employment we could offer. When he joined us he was always a bit over-interested in the cats (at the time we had five), so we kept him on a leash we could grab if his cat exuberance became over-the-top. He soon learned the leash meant "calm down," (I think he figured it out in 3 days), and pretty soon we didn't even have to pick up the leash, just walk toward him, and he would go lie down somewhere.

After two weeks (just to be certain of all things calm), he was off leash and provided us immediately with the answer to "what job can we give you?"

Piper became the official CAT MANAGER and CAT HERDER extraordinaire. Below is a little gallery of Piper and just a few kitty interactions.

Border Collie watches over cat lying in the grass

MORE STUFF TO DO

Border Collies excel in agility, fly ball, and working with any farm animals that need herding. I find them to be a lovely breed.

Piper's intelligence has superseded his deafness. He knows what we are going to do before we even know what we are going to do, because he reads our body language and routine so well.

He is the BEST cat manager on the planet. Our cats all love and trust him, and often seek him out for company. Our cat Matty likes to lay in Piper's big tail. Piper is a fair and good supervisor with our cats, and quite honestly, we are never going to be able to refill his position.

Piper, our Border Collie, enjoying an evening on the patio sans kitties.

Border Collies rank pretty high on my list of favorite breeds to photograph, especially when they are at work, doing what they love most.

CLICK INTO THE CIRCLE

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic, start here with Carol Mudra of Apawture Studios in Milan, Italy as she shares how her high-energy dogs left the woods behind for a much more comfortable job: modeling!

Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer.

Enjoy your weekend!

The circle of trust: Piper and Barney

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Adventures with Bird Dogs

7/1/2022

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Orange Belton Setter emerges from a pond to look for owner's next signal.

There is nothing quite like following a hunting team (person and dog) to capture a day spent in the field. It's a real adventure for the photographer.

What to Expect on Bird Dog Adventures

When I first started photographing dogs in the field, I didn't know WHAT to expect. It wasn't until I had my first session under my belt, that I realized a number of things.

1. You should expect that your backdrop may not be everything you want it to be.

I mean, we are in the woods...in tall brush...in places where half the time you can't even see the dog, because it is working to follow scent or find a downed bird. But, there is always a chance to capture a dog somewhere that will give a good visual for the day, like the dog in the above photo, emerging from a pond and standing a moment to check on the next signal from the owner.

Which brings me to a second expectation.

2. Expect the dog will not be spotlessly clean all the time.

You know those beautiful portraits of dogs staring into the camera with perfect coats and picturesque nature backgrounds? Not happening here. As a photographer, you have to change your mindset a bit while capturing bird dogs.

This is not portrait work, it's lifestyle work. It's sometimes fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants work.

I always try to capture at least one photo of the owner entering the field with their dog. Most of the time, as photographers, we are on the fringe of the field, wearing bright orange and trying to be mindful of where the dog is, and where the gun is.

I also do a quick visual survey of the location to determine where to (and where not to even bother) watch for dog emergence from thicket and other heavy areas, for a possible photo opportunity.

Once in the field, the dog's coat, if not protected, will pick up whatever brush wants to come along for the ride, so I try to get my planned pictures done earlier in the hunt, rather than later.

3. Expect that dogs will usually be wearing a lot of stuff.

Blue Belton English Setter suited up and ready to hunt birds.

Bird dogs will often be wearing a tracking GPS collar, a bell collar (with owner tags and info), and a protective vest (usually in bright orange, but colors vary--I have seen neon green and yellow as well). The bell collar is extremely helpful to me, as it pinpoints the whereabouts of the dog in high brush, and helps to discover the openings near the sound where the dog might appear from the thicket.

I try to find at least one photo that captures expression and the dog's personality.

In the field, a dog all suited up looks like this.

Owners will be well pleased with the three planned photographs discussed above (field entry, dog personality close up, field work). Remember, they want photos that reflect their dog is doing his or her job.

English Setter retrieves bird from thicket and high grass.

Being in the right place, at the right time, is our job as photographers. That involves understanding a bit of what is going to happen timing-wise in a hunting day, as part of the normally-scheduled program activities. It takes some practice, and an understanding that, at some point, you are not going to have ideal conditions (too sunny, too hot, too much brush, etc.).

You need to dress properly, too. I have my own orange vest, a good pair of field boots, a sun hat, and I wear clothing that is impervious to field debris, but dries quickly (LL Bean, Cabela's, or Orvis are great places to find things). I highly recommend THESE BRIAR JEANS. I treat my clothes with a good insect repellent, and carry it and some sunscreen in my camera bag.

Some people ask if bird dogs are mostly setters. The answer is NO.

Airdale anticipating the day's hunt at the edge of the thicket.

In my area, Airdales, Labs, Golden Retrievers and Beagles are prevalent in the field as well.

It truly is an adventure to head out for a day with dogs in the field. While it is hard work, it is also great exercise, and watching these dogs do what they love is good for the soul.

Click Into the Circle

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic (outdoor adventures), start here with Southeast Wisconsin dog photographer Jan Bezzo of Shadow Dog Photography, as she shares the 21 best dog-friendly hiking trails in Wisconsin.

Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer.

If you are interested in scheduling a session in the field with your hunting dog, there is no time like the present to get it on the calendar! Happy hunting!

Orange Belton English Setter dog waits patiently for her turn in the field.

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Keeping Pets Safe on the Fourth of July

6/24/2022

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It's right around the corner.

The great celebration of our nation's independence, filled by wonderful firework displays scheduled for many sanctioned locations. Good food, good times, good friends, family visits and gatherings.

But, for some of us pet owners, who have little furry bodies that fear loud noises (or even new people), planning for the 4th of July does not only include buying local corn and making fried chicken.

I am a pet owner that has both a dog and a cat that fear loud noises in close proximity (or that sound like they are in close proximity). Cats are not normally in this category, so our Matty breaks that mold wide open. He prefers to be alone in a quiet place during thunderstorms. He will either be under the bed or have slipped through the cat door into the basement where he hides for quite a bit of time (sometimes a whole day) until things settle down. The more severe the storm, the longer he hides.

Our dog Lilah, and English Setter, has been afraid of loud noises since she was a tiny puppy. Although our property borders a sportsmans club, the gun shots we hear from the range are far enough away that they do not bother Lilah on a daily basis. They also don't shake the ground, like rolling thunder does in particularly bad storms.

Noise Anxiety is a very real thing. For a GREAT ARTICLE on noise anxiety, CLICK HERE.

Safety Tips for Dogs with Noise Anxiety

Following are some tips for dealing with anxieties that center around fireworks and the 4th of July, as well as fears surrounding loud noises in general.

1. Don't take a pet with you to firework displays.

By all means, go out and enjoy the displays at local area celebration sites, but don't take your pet. Even dogs who are totally sensitized and good with loud noises, can suddenly become fearful of a number of things that TOGETHER cause enough anxiety to cause bolting or other fear reactions. I have never understood people who insist on bringing their dogs to fireworks displays.

2. Create a safe haven spot for your fearful pet.

Whether it's a blanket-draped crate or access to areas in the house your pet considers safe, by giving them control over where they want to go, is a step to helping them to feel safer. During thunderstorms, or when closer neighbors insist on shooting off fireworks, Lilah needs to be on either my, or my husband's lap, or in very close proximity to us (like hiding under a desk while we work, so we can touch her occasionally for reassurance).

3. Watch for signs of anxiety overload.

Obvious shaking, pacing, panting and whining activity, are key indicators your dog is stressed. Remove your dog from stress-point activities. Take your dog for a walk early in the day on the fourth, to avoid possible interaction with loud nightly activities. Never tie your dog outside (I am not a fan of this at any time, by the way) if you know fireworks will be set off in your neighborhood. Never even leave your pet alone in a fenced-in yard during such times.

4. Make Sure Identification is Up to Date

Always make sure that your dog's ID tags, licensing and any medical alerts are up to date and placed safely on your dog. We use both a collar and harness system here. Our identification information (license, rabies tag, name/phone number contact tag) is on the neck collar, which is secured so it cannot slip over the dog's head. Our leash is always attached to the harness. For our deaf dogs (we have two), their name tag has a large print I AM DEAF on the reverse side. When our cat Gus was alive, his name tag read DIABETIC on the reverse. Our dog Danny has FEARFUL DOG on the reverse of his name tag. Any major health-related issues should be placed somewhere as identifiers on your dog.

5. Time Alone from Gatherings

If you are having a gathering or party and even if your dog enjoys company, be sure to still offer them time alone or away from the crowd. They will let you know if they want to come back into the fold.

6. Speak to Your Veterinarian

When things escalate enough that you find it hard to keep your dog calm during noise anxiety moments, be sure to speak to your veterinarian about treatment possibilities. We do have a course of calming medications for Lilah, but as long as we are here, with a lap or quiet space to offer and guard, she does make it through without the use of medication.

Personally, we are always sure to be at home on the 4th (we can attend other fireworks displays on other dates surrounding the 4th, but the 4th is the most active day in our area) and we watch our weather predictions carefully for storms and make sure we are home, for Lilah, on those days as well.

Dogs are individuals. Some can be desensitized to loud noise, while nothing seems to work for others. Let's keep their individual needs in mind as we move forward to celebrate another July 4th!

Click Into the Circle

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic, start here with Houston Pet Photographer, Kelly Russo, as she shares some tips for keeping your pup happy and safe during the Fourth of July festivities.

Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer.

Have a great weekend. Celebrate your 4th safely!

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Meet a Working Border Collie

6/17/2022

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Fathers Day is coming up this weekend, and it always reminds me of the days we used to head over to Sheepy Hollow's Stock Dog Trials, which featured champion Border Collies from all over the U.S. and Canada.

The fields at Sheepy Hollow Farm, in Hop Bottom, PA (yes, that was the name of the farm) became a colony of glampers, with RVs that often reminded me of small apartments in San Francisco, as they were outfitted with so many amenities. The folks who populated these trials set major portions of their lives aside to travel to dog trials all over the country, and not just Sheepy Hollow It was RVs and dogs as far as the eye can see.

A Little Bit of History

"North of Tunkhannock, tucked between the rolling hills of Susquehanna County is the small town of Hop Bottom, PA. It’s the kind of one-stop-sign town that normally doesn’t draw a second look from people passing through. But once a year the community comes alive for a really unique event, the Pennsylvania Stock Dog Trials. Held since 1892 in the same place – Sheepy Hollow farm – this stock dog time trial is one of the oldest such competitions in the county and its the epitome of the bond between canine and man." ~Bill desRosiers

During a typical stock dog trial competition, handlers must control a flock of sheep vicariously through a stock dog, usually a Border Collie. Different vocal calls are used to manipulate the dog and ultimately maneuver the flock of sheep across a long field and around obstacles. The competition is an amazing display of trust and intelligence – displayed by both handler and canine. Scoring is out of one hundred but judges are critical of every move, deducting points for losing control of the dog, the sheep or missing obstacles throughout the course.

In 2013, when I took the photos above, there were almost 300 handlers, and nearly 1000 people visited the site to watch the trials over the course of three days. I remember the food was always great, and there were plenty of fresh baked goods.

Below is a quick clip of what it is like to watch trials, coming from Soldier Hollow in Midway, Utah. The Sheepy Hollow Trials, no longer exist. I miss them. It was such a great thing to have, literally, in my back yard.

Border Collie Ownership

We became dog parents of a Border Collie in May of 2009. Our deaf Border Collie, Piper, joined us as a rescue from Glen Highland Farm, then located in New York, now in Virginia. I wrote about Piper, and the other dogs that live with us, in a previous blog post. If you want to meet Piper again, CLICK HERE.

Border Collies (BCs) have a focus like no other dog we have ever owned. They require a job, lots of exercise, and can be a little OCD at times.

But I credit Piper with my ability to understand the breed and photograph it better, especially when an owner wants natural, working-dog scenarios, and not typically posed or studio photos.

Meet Tinker

Tinker is a farm dog. He is quite a bit older now (close to 13), but still as focused and ready for action as any young BC. You can see his keen eye and typical BC stare in the photo below. The crouch is instinctual in the breed, as they will move low to the ground for more stealth while working.

When Tinker and Piper were younger, they used to play together occasionally. Border Collies have a different way of playing, and really do appreciate a member of their same breed when it comes to play dates.

Tinker loves to play with sticks and balls, but our Piper does not like to play with toys at all. He prefers to watch our cats and follow them around. As I mentioned, they need a job.

Tinker is a smooth-coated BC. His coat is thick and lovely. In the photo above, I had his owner use a large stick to grab Tinker's attention, and as he waited for the stick to be thrown, he took the crouch position in anticipation of the game. It was an opportune time to snap the photo.

Border Collie eyes are usually small and dark in color. This has to be taken into account when photographing a BC subject.

The light was really perfect for the photograph above, and even though we are shooting in the opulent greenery of Spring, I used some poetic license with the trees in the background and added some paintbox colors to better separate Tinker's dark coat from the background. This is the photo Tinker's Dad now has on his wall.

Border Collies originated in Scotland. The word "collie" means sheepdog. They have strength, stamina, intelligence, and a great work ethic. They also have an impervious coat, which protects them in all sorts of weather.

Border Collies have a lifespan of 10 to 17 years. They can weigh up to 45 pounds and their height is usually somewhere around 22 inches at the shoulder.

They are one of the smartest breeds I have encountered in my years of owning, and now photographing, dogs.

Click Into the Circle

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic, start here with Dallas dog photographer Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography, as she shares a beautiful location for pet portraits, the Rose Garden of Farmers Branch where she recently met an adorable senior Labrador Retriever named Scooby. Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer.

Happy Father's Day to all the dog and skin-kid Dads out there! Enjoy your weekend!

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Decoy Retrieval - Just Add Water

5/27/2022

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There's nothing quite like a bright, sunny day and a happy dog doing his job and enjoying life.

A while back, I had the opportunity to watch a few champion retrievers at work, and to learn about the training that goes into waterfowl retrieval.

LEAVE THE DECOY - BRING BACK THE DOWNED BIRD

I realize that the subject of "downed birds" might be a problem. This discussion will show no photos of downed birds, but will simply discuss a few aspects of training a dog to be a hunting partner.

I grew up in a hunting family. My grandfather, uncles, and father, were all hunters. They were not trophy hunters. Any hunting in my family always resulted in a viable meat source. Turkey and/or pheasant were often served at Thanksgiving.

Having owned a Chocolate Lab at one point in our lives, I know the instinct is strong to "bring things home." Our Ike would often appear in our yard with tidbits he found in the woods near our house, some of which I would run screaming from.

So, when invited to a weekend event which included watching retrievers do their thing, I was excited to learn the process.

Decoys and "calls" are a part of hunting. It is important the dog is trained to leave the decoys alone and bring back the bird.

This Cabela's video, of a dog's first-time experience with decoys will explain.

Obviously, this good boy, caught on quickly, most likely because he had been taught to retrieve on dry land first, then using the same bumpers, moved to water retrieval.

TEACH STRAIGHT LINES

Retrievers are also taught to retrieve in a straight line--leave shore, get the downed bird, return to shore--all in a sort of shortest-distance-between-two-points approach. The straightest paths are the best paths. Here's a quick article from Ducks Unlimited that talks about why this is so important.

The very best thing to do, if you are unfamiliar with bird retrieval training, is to work with a reputable trainer, so that your dog is started correctly, and doesn't have a chance to build up habits that would hinder, rather than help, the process.

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN SEARCHING FOR A REPUTABLE TRAINER

1. What education and training does the trainer have?
2. Are they certified, accredited, or a member of a certified/accredited organization?
3. What training methods do they use?
4. Do they have any client testimonials or reviews that you can look over?

While there are more, I'm sure, these at least can get the conversation rolling to the point where you can gauge your feel for the person.

Thanks to Bridget Bodine and Charles Jindracek, I was able to see positively-reinforced retriever training in action with their black labs, Crosby and Frazier. They are now located in Tennessee, and Bridget has started her own business Versatile Dog Training. Click on the name to view her Facebook page.

Click Into the Circle

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic, start here with Seattle dog photographer, Holly Cook, as she explains what it takes for your dog to be a Salty Dog. Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer.

Have a great weekend. Enjoy!

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The Calming Quiet Times

5/20/2022

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Everyone needs a break now and then.

In my break from photo sessions, print competition preparation, and other work-related daily activity, I often like to spend time with my own pets doing things we love to do. There are grooming sessions, play-in-the-back-yard activities, walks, and other adventures we like to do together, or we simply relax on the back patio.

Playtime with Lilah and her hedgehog in the back yard.

Billie spending time in a favorite spot in our yard.

Mental Health Breaks - Pets Are Key

Pets are good for our mental health. It has been proven, through many scholarly studies, that pets afford us many positive things. Here is a list of them:

physical activity
companionship
reduce anxiety
boost confidence (especially in children)
help you to meet new people
add good structure to your everyday life

It has also been proven, that pets were instrumental in helping individuals through the anxiety and intensity of lock downs during COVID-19 year 2020. Click HERE for a great article that covers why pets are good for us. It's what I used to research the subject.

I have always valued my pets for supporting me through both tough and happy times. And I even forgive them when no one agrees to look at the camera!

LtoR: Moe, Bethy, Billie, Danny, Burton refusing to look at the camera.

Time to Experiment

I often use down time to try new things and experiment with new photography equipment acquisitions.

I recently purchased a Lens Baby, and have only had a minimal amount of time to play around with it and learn the secrets of what it can do. I took a Lens Baby class from a foremost user, but just need to set aside the time to put what I learned into practice.

I can guarantee I will be asking my pets for their assistance in helping me through the learning process. Here's a quick photo of Talley I did with the Lens Baby Sweet 35.

Talley, herself, keeps me active, motivated, and serene. She is always willing to help out and has become a great model for many things I try.

With six dogs, I always try to make time for each one, as they give so much of their time to me.

Click Into the Circle

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic "Serenity", start here with Nicole Hrustyk of Pawtraits by Nicole in Las Vegas, Nevada, as she shares what brings her zen. Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer.

We have a very warm weekend coming up, and I plan to spend some of it having fun with our pets! Have a great weekend everyone!

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Develop an Eye for Framing

5/6/2022

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This week's blog circle topic is "frames," and I have decided to talk a little bit about how to find good framing opportunities in nature, helping you to grab better pet photos.

I'm not just talking about camera photos, but also cell use.

I decided to scope out my own backyard with our hardest-to-photograph dog, Billie. Right now our landscape is fraught with downed ash trees and branches that need to be cleared out. High wind and ice storms did a number on a large quantity this past winter.

Nevertheless, if you think about three things when searching for an optimum framing element, you should be able to improve your photos of your pet.

3 Things to Think About When Looking to Frame Your Pet

1. Find Something Interesting or Colorful

A springtime landscape will often afford you the ability to find flowering bushes, trees or gardens of early spring blooms (like daffodils or tulips). Framing your pet amid the blooms is a great way to make a ho-hum photo more exciting!

I placed Billie on a large garden bench so she would sit up into the higher branches of our Magnolia bush. I also opened up my lens to add a dreamy/creamy look to the magnolias.

I think the pink suits her. What do you think?

2. Anchor the Subject Between Two Similar Objects

Talley was a little verklempt that I was asking Billie to pose, and not her. Talley knows that treats are involved (see that tiny bit of drool in the corner of her mouth camera left?) so she is typically a very willing subject.

These two tree groupings grow on an island in our yard. The key is to find the right angle in the frame up, and to use a lens setting that will blur out a distracting background. When you are working toward finding the right angle, be sure to pick the one that has the least amount of distracting objects.

Because the two tree groupings are "similar items," they do a nice job of framing Talley in between, keeping the look consistent.

I chose a different set of trees outside of our main yard for Billie. She is a smaller dog and needed some trees that were closer together, as she might get lost in too big a space between objects. Billie is at her scruffiest right now. She is due at the groomer's next week, but I kind of like photographing her when she is very scruffy.

Some other common similar objects you can find in nature are: large rocks, foot paths, clumps of high grasses, round hay bales, pond reeds...there are just a multitude of things you can find and use when you are out and about.

Look for openings that complement, rather than detract from, the size of your pet.

3. When You Can't Avoid Background Distractions, Use a Common Theme

Our grandkids climbing equipment served as a way to immerse Billie in common colors and objects, plus place her between two like objects (the green handles). While there are things going on behind her in the background, because of the common theme, your eye will go to Billie.

She loved it up on the play equipment, because it was a great vantage point to spot squirrels.

Armed with these three suggestions, I challenge you to go out and "frame" your pet. The more you practice, the faster your eye will find great spots in the future.

Click Into the Circle

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic, start here with Dallas - Fort Worth pet photographer Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography, as she tells the story of your dog or cat with one-of-a-kind story prints that allow you to display multiple pictures from your pet's photo shoot. Then find the link at the end of each blog to click on to the next photographer.

Happy Mother's Day to all the skin and fur-kid moms out there! Have a fantastic weekend!

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Is It Spring Yet?

4/22/2022

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I have to imagine that Northeastern PA black bears are laying in their dens asking this same question. Those of us who live in the Endless Mountains were treated to anywhere from 4.5 inches to 14 inches of snow this past week (many people still do not have power in my region), thanks to some cruel, late April fool's joke cast on us by Mother Nature.

And, just like those bears, I have been lazy and slacking in keeping everyone up to date on happenings in and around the studio. Hopefully, I can fix all that in this one blog post, play catch up, and move back into my regularly scheduled programming.

Technology Break

Everyone needs a break from technology now and then, so I took a week to chill out WITHOUT looking at an editing screen. This of course, was in preparation for a month-long, daily routine of working on print competition images, and attending various continuing education conferencing. There was even a speaking engagement thrown in that mix.

During that time, I have not been blogging, as I just could not put another thing on the schedule. Plus, there is the client thing.....ya know.

So, here without further ado, are the sure signs of Spring for me, even if Mother Nature isn't cooperating.

5 Signs of Spring in the Endless Mountains

1. Conferencing and Print Competition

Yep, that's me speaking at the NPPPA Winter Conference in March.

I was happy to talk about all things PET PHOTOGRAPHY at NPPPA's Winter Conference held in March. I am never at a loss for words about this happy life revolving around pets and their people. I have received great feedback on the presentation, and will be doing it again for the Finger Lakes Professional Photographers monthly meeting in May.

Also at the NPPPA conference:

I attended the Professional Photographers of PA's Inspire Conference in earlier in March, where I had two blue ribbon images (merited) and received an award for Best Wildlife Image. The wildlife image is now being moved onward to Professional Photographers of America's District Competition, after being reworked a bit per judges' suggestions.

In April, I participated in the Animal Image Makers print competition (virtually) and came away with three images which merited.

I am now submitting to PPA's District competition in two categories: Photographic Open and (for the first time ever) Artist (because I like to work outside my comfort zone). Judging is in mid-May, and none of the images can be shared until September, after International competition. If I am lucky, maybe some of my images will make it that far.

2. Geese

A big sign of Spring in my area is the return of all the geese at various nesting ponds. I always keep a watch for the same couple which arrive every year at a pond not too far from where I live. This year, I think they had no idea what they bargained for, and may postpone next year's arrival a bit due to snow conditions.

Goose preening on bank of local pond.

3. Harry the Cat

Our cat Harry is a sure sign of Spring. As the days get warmer and the sun sets later, he can be found sitting on our rock walls staring intently at some location where I am sure he has seen a field mouse or chipmunk (I am often rescuing these two animals). All the other bad weather days, Harry is asleep on a dog bed, with or without a dog. He honestly is not angry in this photo. The sun was in his eyes a bit when I took the picture, and he was bothered that I interrupted his steely gaze at a certain location.

Harry the orange cat sits on a rock wall watching for critters.

4. The Finch Family Returns

Not only does the Finch Family return, but they invite and bring all their friends to crash the feeder parties, which are held long into the early evening hours.

We get to see many different varieties of finches (I especially love the purple and house finches), but the golden finches are in abundance. Every once in a while, one of them cooperates and let's me get close enough for a photo opportunity. Most of them are used to me, just not my camera.

American Goldfinch sitting on a branch.

5. Red and Orange Sunsets Begin Again

I don't know what it is about our weather in the Spring, but it often looks like our woods are on fire. The sunsets are pretty spectacular, and even the best cameras can't seem to actually capture what you see when you look at them in person.

I wait for the first ones in Spring, because they make the grass look much greener than it is, and it's always nice to find some flora and fauna that match them for a pet session.

I guess I really have to admit that it is Spring, since the 5 signs of spring in my area are in place. But, boy, mother nature needs to get her bathing suit out and send some rays our way.

Otherwise, I am now in the season of "change-the-client-session-due-to-rain" which is never welcome here.

Click Into the Circle

I am part of a weekly blogging group of professional pet photographers located all over the planet. To see what others have blogged about in this week's topic, start here with Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography, who is celebrating spring in the Dallas - Fort Worth metroplex with bluebonnet pictures. Then find the link at the end of each blog to click to the next photographer.

Have a wonderful weekend!

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