Phase One: Practice until my eyes bleed...

Well, maybe that's a bit dramatic...but my head does hurt nonetheless. Learning manual functions on a camera is some of the hardest learning I have ever done! I think I have the "eye" for creative shots, I know I can see from a pet (as well as a pet parent) perspective, I can do composure of shots...but yikes! There are an infinite number of possible combinations and outcomes for a great picture when using full manual mode. Settings of aperture, shutter speed, zoom, ISO speed, etc...set with available light, subject motion, depth of field, background clutter, time of day, inside/outside all in mind, setting your flash strength, bouncing flash, no flash, different lenses, different angles and desired outcomes...so many possible combinations...it's overwhelming.

So, for now, I learn. I have been perusing the internet for help and reading incessantly. I have been studying dutifully and practicing religiously. My own pets are sick of the camera in their faces already...I may have to introduce treats if they decide to run away at the sight of the camera! Even the kids have been practiced on, since they move just as fast as pets sometimes. I am having fun, even if I am completely in over my head. Someday, I will have gotten it all in my brain in a quickly usable format...and that's when I can officially "start" this little venture of mine. But, for now, I learn. And practice, practice, practice...

Beginner Shots...of Jimmy, Braden and one of Cole. Yes, I am currently in love with black and whites...they add so much more to the story the picture is telling, don't you think? Though, I love B's Beautiful Blues...

Cole and His Bubbles

From the Beginning...

Hi everyone! I am starting from the beginning because it's the very best place to begin.

This will hopefully become my new pet photography site - a tribute to our beautiful Ruger, our baby boy whom we lost so recently. I wanted so desperately to help his amazing spirit live on somehow, know that he had an impact on me and others around us. I started to simplify my life immediately. And in an instant, this idea presented itself to me; almost literally a light bulb, a resonant "click" in my brain. I woke up one morning and realized that taking pictures, capturing spirits, spending time with dogs like him is where I want to be. As if Ruger was trying to tell me this was the way! At this moment, there are few greater pleasures than the company of a loving, playful dog.

I have seen so many beautiful things in them that I would love to try and catch on film for their "parents"...and for me. I hope to learn more and more every day, gain experience about different kinds of dogs, discover new tricks and in the process, meet great dogs and their humans - a great way to spend my "free" time. Maybe someday I will venture into cats...if I meet the right one, that is! Hopefully, that is the goal...all pets and their parents someday. Right now, I start simple...just puppies.

I have a deep love and respect for dogs, especially after losing one of our own. They have so much to teach us about living a more simple, calm and loving life. I have listened and now I intend to practice and preach - especially this one way, through pictures; ones that tell stories and teach "lessons"! I hope you will join me in relaying Ruger's "song" wherever you go, in the way you live and...maybe letting me borrow your dog for an hour! I may be calling soon... ;)

Ruger, if you're listening....this one's for you, babe. xxxooo