MOMENTS IN FOCUS
River & Pride
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River & Pride -
One type of session that I do not do nearly enough is equine.
Similar to all my sessions, I always look for opportunities for a variety of images with horses, typically some headshot type portraits as well as some natural light images.
The most common type of portrait requested is that black background image (i.e., low key)..
It allows you to truly focus on the elegance of the animal.
The dark background really highlights the details and coloring of the horse as well.
One of my main focuses during an equine session is the angles created by the horse. Horses are gorgeous, but large animals. It is easy to find an unflattering perspective. Patience is key here!
Photographing horses takes a lot of teamwork. Typically we have a few roles in the equine session. Besides me holding the camera, there obviously has to be someone holding the horse. This person has to be knowledgeable about the movement of the horse and preferably have a trusting relationship with the animal.
This a great setup, but at least one more person is typically needed and that is the “attention-getter” (that is an industry term of course). The attention-getter has a serious but challenging role. They work hard to get the horses attention and to help find the perfect look. Especially in horses, the alert ears are vital…which is easier said than done. It is quite a scene with the noises, hat/branch waving, and jumping up and down, but it definitely could not be done without this person!
Send me a message with any thoughts or comments you have. I would love to hear it!
🐾 Before & After: The Power of Editing in Pet Photography
Pet photography is all about capturing the spirit, personality, and quirks of our furry friends. But, capturing the moment is only half the job. The other half happens after the session—during editing, where raw images are refined into stunning portraits.
In this post, I’ll take you behind the scenes to show how editing enhances your pet’s personality, corrects distractions, and transforms good images into gallery-worthy art.
🐾 Why Editing Matters in Pet Photography
Pets don’t pose like people. They move quickly, get distracted easily, and often have unique fur textures, colors, or eye reflections that can challenge even the best camera settings.
Editing isn’t about making pets look “perfect”—it’s about making the image feel real, intentional, and emotionally resonant. Here's what post-processing allows us to do:
Correct lighting or exposure issues
Remove distractions in the background
Bring out detail in fur and eyes
Adjust color tones for warmth and clarity
Enhance mood or style (e.g., soft, dreamy, vibrant, dramatic)
🐕 Wrapping Up: Editing is Art, Not Deception
Some people worry that editing "fakes" a photo, but in pet photography, it's all about enhancing reality, not replacing it. A well-edited photo still reflects the real pet—just with the distractions removed and their personality front and center.
Whether it’s removing a leash, adjusting fur color to match real life, or bringing light into a shadowy eye, editing is an essential part of telling your pet’s story in the most beautiful way possible.
🐾 Ready to book a session?
Or curious about how your pet's photos can be brought to life through editing?
Let’s chat!
Capturing Natural Pet Portraits: My Approach to Stress-Free Photography Sessions
During each of my photography sessions, I aim to create a relaxed and creative atmosphere where everyone—especially your pet—feels comfortable and has fun. One of the reasons I love photographing animals outdoors is because it’s such a natural setting. That environment helps your pet feel at ease, which in turn leads to portraits that genuinely reflect their personality.
Depending on where your pet is comfortable, we can have our session in a variety of settings.
I like to let your pet guide the session. If they love to run, we’ll capture them in motion. If they enjoy swimming, we’ll head to the water. By following their lead, I can ensure the final images showcase who they truly are. Of course, I also work to capture a variety of images, including more traditional posed portraits, but flexibility is key. If your dog isn’t feeling a certain pose or setting, we’ll adjust—either finding a new approach or shifting to something that suits them better.
Mako had a fun session at Jamestown Beach a few years ago. Mako is very active and when we first started the session, he was not all that into the idea of standing still (I can’t blame him…there is water right there!) So we pivoted and encouraged Mako to enjoy the beach. What resulted were these amazing, fun, and personality-filled images!
Levi is a sweet mama’s boy who did not want to stray too far from his person. So, we went with it and ended up with some of the sweetest images!
Lovable Lola was a little nervous at the start of our session, so we gave her some extra time to warm up. I also photographed her with a longer lens so she felt like her space was respected and she could still be herself.
Before the session, I always consult with you to understand your vision and how you plan to use the photos. This helps me tailor the experience to match your expectations and create images you’ll truly love!
Tooth Truth:
A Vet Answers Your Pet Dental Questions
Recently Dr. Moyer of Five Forks Animal Clinic answered a few frequently asked questions about your pet’s dental health…read on for a few tips!
Why is dental care so important for dogs and cats?
—There’s a direct link between dental disease and heart disease, not to mention PAIN when the teeth are diseased. Plus stinky “dog breath” or “cat breath” is actually dental disease/tartar buildup!
What is the most common dental issue in dogs and cats?
Dogs
Periodontal disease…this is where the ligament that holds the tooth in the jaw detaches and makes the tooth loose. As you can imagine, this causes pain and also requires extraction…
A close second (that I see) is broken (fractured) teeth from chewing on things that are too hard. Use my “rule of thumb” …if the bone/chew is too hard to indent with your thumbnail, then it’s too hard for them to chew! Pet’s jaws are WAY stronger than their teeth and they WILL try to bite through a hard chew, breaking their tooth in the process. This creates pain and usually an abscessed tooth root. I always recommend only using VOHC approved dental chews: Accepted Products | Veterinary Oral Health Council
**DO NOT USE ANTLERS. I can’t tell you how many teeth I’ve had to extract because they were broken on an antler.
Cats
Resorptive Lesions…these are like REALLY painful cavities. The bone literally absorbs the root, but in the process creates painful cavities in the crown of the tooth. Sometimes, I can remove the crown, but many times I have to remove the whole tooth with roots included.
Why does my dog’s breath smell so bad?
Tartar/dental disease! It’s typically actually the bacteria that smells so bad.
How often should I brush by dogs teeth?
Every day! That seems impossible at first, but you can desensitize them to it with a little time. Start with them just licking the toothpaste off of the toothbrush. We really like the Jasper Finger Brush and CET Enzymatic toothpaste (the vanilla mint smells wonderful). Then, start to let them nibble on the toothbrush, and eventually you can brush the whole mouth!
What else can I do at home for my pets oral health?
“Dental Care powder” from Vertiscience (formerly Perio Support)…it has a probiotic that helps get rid of the “bad” tartar-causing bacteria and enzymes that can dissolve some of the tartar (aka plaque).
VeggieDent chews: daily vegetable based chews to help “brush” the teeth
Anything else approved by the VOHC (link above)
How often do dogs and cats need dentals by a veterinarian?
…some never need a cleaning if their teeth are brushed and cared for regularly! Some need cleanings every few years, some yearly, some every 6 months! It definitely depends on the dog/breed. If they are on soft food only, that typically leads to more tartar buildup (hard food helps “brush” the teeth when they chew it).
Thanks to Dr. Moyer for answering a few questions for all of us curious pet parents!
Questions or thoughts…I want to hear from you! If you have any ideas for future blog posts that you would like to see, let me know!
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for specific guidance and recommendations tailored to your pet’s individual needs.
Moments in Focus
Meet Hummus!
(Yes…best name ever!)
Hummus is a sweet black lab puppy. He is currently being trained for a very important job!
Hummus is a part of Canine Companions in Williamsburg, VA.
[Canine Companions] “provides service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings.”
Hummus is being trained by the amazing @raising.puppies (IG). This is the third dog in training that I have photographed with @raising.puppies. Hummus will stay in his current home for about 18 months and then will move on to the next stage of training. I am lucky enough to be able to photograph Hummus again at 18 months and see how he has grown.
Fun Fact…Hummus is the son of the last dog I photographed for @raising.puppies…Gage. We also photographed Gage as a pup and at 18 months.
Check out Gage’s puppy images at the end of this post.
The type of job Hummus will hold will be determined when he is older. Now he is just focusing on learning great puppy manners!
Visit https://canine.org/about/who-we-are/ for more info on Canine Companions!
*Top Row: Gage
*Bottom Row: Hummus
Follow us on social media @sweetelliephotos or send me a note here
Follow Hummus @raising.puppies
Follow Canine Companions @canineorg
Fall for Fido: Can't-Miss Dog Events in Williamsburg
Fall in Williamsburg is a gorgeous time with so many things to do around town! And what better way to enjoy Williamsburg than with your pup? Dogs make everything more fun, right?!
Check out Fall inspired crafts at 2nd Sundays Williamsburg Art and Music Festival
On October 12, bring Fido out for music, magicians, food, and handmade crafts. 2nd Sundays features over 180 artists, food vendors, and musicians on the second Sunday of each month from March to December. Take a walk through 6 blocks downtown from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Peep Some Leaves
Free and simple…my favorite type of outing. You can catch beautiful leaves turning vibrant colors all over town. A classic spot to start is Duke of Gloucester Street. If you really want to push your walk over the edge of color, head over close to sunset. As you enjoy the leaves, you can add in beautiful colors throughout the sky. One more bonus, hang out until the lighting of the cressets.
Celebrate at the 3rd Annual Williamsburg Fall Festival
Hosted by Midtown Row and CultureFix, the 3rd Annual Williamsburg Fall Festival will be popping up at 200 College Row. This free event occurs November 1, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Drop by with Pup for live music, craft beer, snacks and fun for the family. Costumes are even encouraged.
Until next time…
Your Guide to a Perfect Photo Experience with Sweet Ellie Photography
You’ve booked your photo session…now what? Here are just a few ideas to get you started!
Schedule any grooming a couple of weeks prior to your session. You want your dog to be fresh and clean, but you do not want to end up with a cut you don't like. Just like you wouldn't get a cut the day before a big event, follow the same rules for your pets.
2. Make sure your dog has a suitable collar and non-retractable leash. Safety always comes first. We want a well fitting collar that keeps your pup secure. Your dog is welcome to wear a harness during the session. However, harnesses are not removed in post-processing, so a collar allows for a cleaner view of the chest.
3. What reinforces your pup? Whatever it is, you want to bring it along! It can be treats or toys…bring along whatever may help your pup to happily participate in the session.
4. Choose your outfit! You and your family are more than welcome to be a part of the session. Usually I recommend neutral colors with solid patterns.
5. Complete your questionnaire and contract. Part of the booking process is a brief contract and questionnaire. I will send those to you once you book your session date and you will complete them online.
6 Spend some time thinking about how you will use your images and about any specific photos you would like to capture. This knowledge will allow us to tailor your session toward what you are envisioning. Additionally, thinking about how you would like to use your photos helps me plan the flow of our time together. You can review our session guide and artwork offerings, which will be attached to nearly all emails. It helps to know whether you are looking for one statement piece featuring a classic portrait or an album that includes a variety of images capturing your dog’s personality.
7. If you can, avoid any intense running of playing immediately before the session. While it could possibly help wear your pup out, we might end up with all panting faces and big tongues hanging out for all the images. We want to give your dog the best chance to really show their best selves during their time in the spotlight.
8. Lastly, reach out to me with any questions and get ready to have fun!
Moments in Focus
Pippin had a great portrait experience on July 4 at York River State Park.
Pippin is a playful sweet rescue. He is obsessed with running after his ball.
Pippin has super cool coloring. He is a mixed breed rescue, yet his primary breed is long-haired Dalmatian. How neat is that?!
Have you scheduled your session yet? Fall is coming up quick!
Top 4 Favorite Enrichment Toys
Busy Buddy Kibble Nibble
We have used the Busy Buddy Kibble Nibble since Ellie was a tiny pup. Not only is it mentally stimulating, but it gets your dog moving around as they “hunt” for their food. There are two different sizes and each holds an entire meal. There are rubber bumpers that protect floors and furniture. Best part, it is dishwasher safe! You can find the Kibble Nibble on the PetSafe website or third party sites like Chewy.
Puzzles by Nina Ottoson
If you aren’t familiar with Nina Ottoson, quickly head over to the website where you will be met with a variety of toys, games, and puzzles. The toys are separated into 4 levels. Typically, the puzzle games have your dog find hidden treats. A recent favorite is the Dog Snuffle N' Treat Ball. Similar to the other games, this toy provides physical and mental stimulation.
Snuffle Mat
The snuffle mat is a simple item that can serve several functions. Snuffle mats provide enrichment and mental stimulation while your dog snuffles for treats. It also helps develop a dog’s sense of smell. Additionally, it can be used to slow down a fast eater. Snuffle mats come in a variety of formats, shapes, and colors. The snuffle mat has strips of fabric that can be arranged into folds, pockets, and flaps. A recent favorite of mine is the Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Stuff N' Snuffle Interactive Plush Puzzle & Snuffle Ball Dog Toy. The snuffle is formed into a ball for even more fun!
Project Hive Pet Company Chew Toy
The Project Hive Pet Company Chew Toy is a fetch/chew toy and treat dispenser. There are several options on how to use this interactive chew toy. It is compatible with the Hive Chew Stick Treats that easily fit inside of the toy, making it easy and quick to prep. I love when no advance prep is required! Chewing promotes healthy teeth and gums. We also sometimes just press kibble into the center. When there are just a few pieces of kibble left, it is fun to bounce the toy and watch the erratic bounce that sends kibble flying. Dogs and people alike get excited. This is another dishwasher safe toy! It can be purchased from the creators website, but is also available on sites such as Chewy or Amazon.
Upcoming Dog Friendly Events in Williamsburg Virginia
Second Sundays Art & Music Festival
Street festival in downtown Williamsburg
August 10, 11-4
Drool in the Pool
Dogs only swimming event
Sunday, September 7
11-3
Chickahominy Riverfront Park Pool (1350 John Tyler Hwy)
$10 per dog
Music in Midtown
8/14, 6-8pm
200 College Row, Williamsburg VA 23185
3rd Annual Food Truck Festival and Concert
Aug 22, 5:30 PM
Williamsburg Community Building
Tickets $10
Hope to see you there!
While you’re here…Let’s Chat!
Moments in Focus:
Highlights from My Latest Sessions
Meet Louie!
Louie recently had an awesome session at Freedom Park—and absolutely crushed it (just look at him!). I first photographed Louie during our Bark the Halls event last year, and he was just as well-behaved this time around!
I’ve also photographed Louie’s big brother, Duffy, a
few years back.
Duffy won one of the initial HHS fundraising contests and we created an awesome, huge canvas to hang at HHS.
I love getting to meet new family members when they join your family!
These are a couple of my fav images from Louie’s session!
5 Tips for taking cute snaps of your pet
“When I open my camera, my pet….”
…finish the sentence. Maybe they run away or turn their head. I hear so many funny stories about how your pet reacts to your phone camera. Sometimes your pet is just being adorable and you want a quick photo. Here are my top tips for getting your pet to cooperate with your hope for a cute snap…
Use treats!
No shame in a little “bribe”, although I like to just think of it as “payment”. Nobody likes working for free, including your dog. Use something that you know is motivating to your pet. Additionally, I find that a small and soft treat serves my purpose much better than a crunchy milk bone. Those smaller treats get swallowed a lot faster and allow you to get back in there and capture another photo. Otherwise I find that the pup likes crunch and focus on their treat before reengaging with you.
2. Make noises!
Make all the noises to get your pet’s attention. Use toys and squeakers…whatever your pet might respond to. The louder/more exciting/high pitched noises the better. Hold any squeakers right near the camera so your pet will look in that direction. Noises are one of my secret weapons to get those cute expressions in my portraits. My “dolphin noise” is usually a clincher and often gets that head tilt!
3. Give them time and space!
My first priority during our sessions is always the pet’s comfort and working with them instead of against them. Just like us, sometimes your pet might not want a photo. Give them some time and come back to it later or another day! You are definitely not going to get that laid back or comfortable look you are wanting if he/she starts in a place of annoyance lol!
4. Get low!
Get on their level! One of the biggest differences you can make in your shots is getting more of an eye level photo. It allows for such a better connection between your pet and the camera! it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
5. Have fun!
The best way to get personality filled photos is to enjoy yourself and make sure your pet is enjoying themselves as well. They will be much more likely to put on that smile you love if you are just having fun!
When to Hire a Professional Pet Photographer
While snapping day-to-day photos of your pet is wonderful (and with a few tips, you can absolutely improve your own shots!), there are some special moments that deserve something more.
As a professional, I bring more than just a camera—I bring experience, patience, and a deep understanding of how to connect with animals to truly bring out their personalities.
Here are just a few benefits of hiring a pro like me:
You get to relax and enjoy the experience. No stress, no chasing the perfect shot—just you and your pet having a great time.
Your pet gets to be the star. Most animals love the attention and play, making the shoot fun and natural.
I capture your pet's true personality. Whether it’s their quirky smile, soulful eyes, or signature head tilt, I specialize in creating portraits that reflect the way you see them.
High-quality, lasting artwork. Each photo is professionally edited, designed, and printed to create heirloom-quality pieces you’ll treasure forever.
A snapshot captures a moment—my portraits tell a story. Let’s create something beautiful together!
Would you like me to help turn this into a blog post, social media caption, or something else?
Paws & Paths: 5 Outdoor Adventures to Enjoy with Your Dog in Williamsburg, Virginia
Paws & Paths: 5 Outdoor Adventures to Enjoy with Your Dog in Williamsburg, Virginia
York River State Park
York River State Park is one of our favorite parks in the Hampton Roads area. There are tons of paths and lots of wildlife. Since the park borders the York River, you are able to see gorgeous waters as well as forest paths. Our favorite trail goes right down to the beach!
Pros: Variety of trails, soft paths for our pawed friends, water views, equestrian trails, hike options with some elevation
Good to Know Before You Go: Since this is a Virginia State Park, there is a $5 parking fee. Dogs are not allowed on canoes.
Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a beautiful spot to stroll with your dog. You can grab coffee from Aroma’s, Eleva, Hohl, or the Bake Shop in the morning. In the evening, make your way over to Precarious Beer or Amber Ox for a beer or cocktail.
Colonial Williamsburg is one of our favorite places to photograph, so make sure you stop and grab a photo with your phone to capture your adventure. There are lots of sights for you and your dog to enjoy on Duke of Gloucester Street. Ellie loves to meet all of the actor-interpreters walking around (and sometimes carrying treats)!
Pros: Lots of spots to stop and grab food or drinks, outdoor dining tables where you can take a break, lots of people and dogs (if your dog is into that)
Good to Know Before You Go: Lots of people and dogs (if you dog is not into that), paved paths, streets are fairly sunny so be cautious mid day in the summer
Freedom Park
Freedom Park is another of my favorite places to photograph. It has really beautiful light that streams through the trees in the morning. There is also a small botanical garden that blooms in spring and definitely worth a walk through. Many of the paths at Freedom Park are paved. There are unpaved paths through the woods, but they are shared with mountain bikers. Although the pup can’t go, Go Ape is a fun outing and shares a parking lot with Freedom Park.
Pros: Shaded paths, flowers/gardens
Good to Know: Unpaved paths are shared with bikers which can be stressful (Ellie likes to stand in the middle of course), the rest of the paths are paved, mostly wooded so not much scenery
New Quarter Park
New Quarter Park can be accessed off of the Colonial Parkway which provides a beautiful backdrop for your drive. When you arrive, you will find a disc golf course (where ellie likes to watch the frisbees bring thrown), as well as endless paths. You could wander around the paths all day if you wanted.
Pros: Lots of trails, gravel trails, lots of tree coverage/shade for your hike, spots overlooking water, the park has enough space that you can distance yourself from others
Good to Know: Mostly tree lined paths (so if you are not into a forest hike this is not the place for you), limited/confusing parking
Waller Mill Park
Waller Mill Park provides a great variety of activities in one place. There are a few unpaved paths that twist and turn through the tress and provide for great hikes. There is a nice lake and a dock to catch a sunset. And to top it off, there is a dog park! If your dog needs to burn some energy or really needs a play date, there is a fenced dog park with lots of shade for you. If you are looking for more of a true hike, Waller Mill is a great spot. The paths wind through woods with changing elevations. Hiking shoes are never a bad idea here though.
Pros: Dog park, hiking paths (ups and downs/twists and turns), water views
Good to Know: Entry fee to visit (some days), not a lot of paved or flat trails, dogs are not allowed on rented canoes or paddle boats
So go ahead and make your and your pup’s day by checking out one of these great spots that make Williamsburg so special!
Make sure to let us know what you think!