When I first met Sara and RJ, I was instantly captivated by their love for their dogs, Cloe and Cooper. Cloe, the adorable Tripod Pocket Pittie princess, had just won a coveted spot in the 2025 Colorado Pet Pantry Calendar, a well-deserved honor that brought us together. Little did I know, this photo session in the mountains would become one of the most memorable experiences of my career
As soon as Sara, RJ, and their fur-babies arrived, Cloe leapt out of the car with a joyful wiggle and immediately made her way over to greet me. Her excitement was contagious, and it was clear why she had charmed her way into the hearts of so many. Cloe’s enthusiasm for life was a breath of fresh air, perfectly matching the crisp mountain air that surrounded us.
Cooper, however, was a different story. When Sara had initially reached out to include him in the session, she expressed concern about his anxiety. Cooper wasn’t the social butterfly his sister was. He was still learning to trust the world, carrying the weight of a past filled with fear. When the family arrived, Cooper hesitated to leave the safety of the SUV, his eyes scanning the unfamiliar surroundings with caution.
RJ gently reassured him, promising that everything would be okay. I made sure to give Cooper the space he needed, understanding that this moment was as much about building his trust as it was about capturing beautiful images. Slowly but surely, Cooper took his first steps out of the car, drawn by the intriguing smells of the woods but still wary of his surroundings.
Our location was a quiet, less-traveled trail that offered stunning views without the hustle and bustle of other hikers. It was the perfect setting for Cooper to relax and start enjoying his adventure. As we walked, I captured moments of Sara and RJ showering both dogs with love, giving Cooper the reassurance he needed. With each passing minute, Cooper began to relax, finding comfort in the familiar presence of his family and the serene environment.
What stood out the most during this session was the incredible bond between Sara, RJ, Cloe, and Cooper. Sara’s dedication to her pets, especially Cooper, was nothing short of inspiring. Working at the Denver Dumb Friends League, Sara had chosen Cooper from a shelter, knowing he was one of the least likely to be adopted. Despite his fear and anxiety, she saw potential in him—a chance to give him the life he deserved.
By the time we reached the spot with a breathtaking view that seemed to stretch on forever, Cooper had visibly relaxed, soaking in the safety and love that surrounded him.
As we wrapped up our session and headed back to the city, I knew we had captured something special. Not just the beauty of the location, but the essence of a family who had come together to help a once-terrified dog find his way to happiness. Cloe, with her unbridled joy, and Cooper, with his newfound courage, made this session unforgettable.
This session wasn’t just about taking photos—it was about telling a story. A story of resilience, love, and the incredible impact that a caring family can have on a dog who once knew only fear. I am honored to have been part of Cloe and Cooper’s journey and to have captured the magic of this day. I’m certain these images will serve as a beautiful reminder of the strength of their bond for years to come.
Have you been holding out hope for beautiful photos of your anxious dog?
Photographing anxious dogs is all about setting them up for success. Choosing a low stress location and encouraging activities they enjoy makes all the difference in the world. I hope this story inspires other dog parents to capture their unique family moments, no matter the challenges. Every dog deserves to be celebrated, and every family has a story worth telling.
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