Chesney's parents had a great weekend trip planned so I had the opportunity to have her stay with us as they were away. This sweetheart was such a joy and kept my dog, Eva, company over her birthday weekend. Our time with Chesney went by so fast and I have no doubt that she is now back home sleeping away all the walks, toys and wrestling that she endured over the last couple days. Chesney, you are welcome back anytime you want to keep us company. We miss you already! Of course, while she was here, I had to capture a few images of her...
I love her little smile :)
My First Cover!
It's finally here!!! The October issue of Lake Norman Currents Magazine is now on stands! I have been waiting all year for this issue for several reasons. Number 1 - because it is the coveted pet issue. Number 2 - because I have a picture on the COVER! I was very fortunate to meet the publisher of Currents back in March during a Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce event. I told her I specialized in architectural photography and I was just getting into doing pet photography as well. I saw her ears perk up when I mentioned pet portraits and she instantly told me about one of their most popular issues - the October pet issue. From that day on, I knew I wanted to be in that issue. Even if I just had an ad, I would be happy.
After shooting several stories for the magazine, the editor approached me about photographing an event that would raise money for the Cornelius Animal Shelter Alliance. The event would be in the form of a contest with the winner gracing the cover of the October pet issue. Sold! Of course I would help out. I would get to photograph cute dogs not just for the magazine, but for a good cause as well.
But wait...that wasn't all. The email continued by saying that they wanted ME to shoot the contest winner's picture for the COVER! Really!?! Me? I about had a heart attack. This is the issue I just wanted to have an ad in and now I'm going to shoot the cover? Hmmm...let me think out this. I politely and calmly wrote back saying that I would take the assignment.
Webster was the lucky winner of the contest and will now have a taste of fame at a very young age. This handsome puppy was so well-mannered and was the perfect model for his first photo shoot. I mean, who couldn't take a good picture of Webster with those adorable ears of his? Many congrats to Webster and his mommy. I will remember you forever! XOXO! Here are a couple other pics of the little man without his winning trophy...
For more pictures from the Currents Commodore Cover Dog Contest, pick up your magazine today or click HERE for my blog post from the event.
Eva's Day at the Lake
It's been a while since I've blogged a complete pet portrait session so I thought I would do one for my own doggy, Eva. I want to show those of you that may not be too familiar with McGraw Photography what a typical shoot might look like. Here it goes... Usually, I like to start off in my client's house - a comfortable place for the dog and really the best location for your pet to get to know me and my camera. From there we can go to any location that your pet loves - your backyard, a local park, etc. As I shoot, I let your dog do its own thing. Occasionally, and with your help, I'll have him pose or move to a specific location that I think will look great. However, I want to capture your dog's personality and the best way to do that is to let him be himself. I want images that you can look back on and say to yourself, "Oh, that is SO my dog."
So this is exactly how I shot Eva's images. We started out around the house shooting what she loves to do most - hang out on the couch, chew on toys, and play guard dog.
This was about the point when I told her we were going to GO somewhere (her favorite word). She was so excited...
She waited patiently in front of the door. She knew we would GO soon...
Finally time to head to the lake! Eva loves going on car rides in daddy's big truck. She can see everything from so high up in the air...
The drought really has affected the lake. A large stretch of "mud beach" greeted us along the water. Eva didn't mind...it made it easier to find sticks along the shore.
I love this image. It totally reminds me of Forrest, Forrest Gump...
I thought I knew all the tricks to get a dog's attention - toys, squeakers, treats, funny noises, meowing, etc. However, nothing works when birds and squirrels are just a few feet away...
It was time to head back home so Eva took a second to take one last look across the water. I think she was pretty content...
I love you Eva and Eva's daddy! If you are ready to book your own doggy portrait session, contact me and I'll answer any questions you may have!
2010 Holiday Mini-Sessions
Yes, it's that time of year already and I'm so happy to announce the 2010 Holiday Mini-Sessions! These special packages are a great deal, are all-inclusive, and contain everything you'll need for your holiday greeting cards, prints, and stocking stuffers. Each of these mini-sessions include 30-45 minutes of shooting and between 12 and 15 final edited images as well as all of the goodies already included. Additionally, all images will be posted to a private on-line gallery for viewing, sharing, and ordering any additional items you need for the holidays.
Location: Freedom Park - Charlotte, NC
Date: October 16, 2010 (Rain date: Oct 17)
Times: 8:00am, 8:45am, 9:30am, 10:15am
These sessions will go fast!!! If demand is high enough, additional days may be added. Here are the packages to choose from...
Each mini-session provides coverage for up to 2 dogs. Looking for a family shot for your holiday card? The mini-session also includes coverage for up to 2 family members! Additional pets and people are welcome to join in for an additional $25 each. A $100 deposit will be required to reserve your time slot and an 8.25% NC sales tax will be added to each session. The remaining balance will be due before your session begins.
Ready to book your mini-session? Contact me ASAP before the limited spaces fill up! I look forward to working with you and your pups!
Hudson - Studio Session
Sweet Hudson was the very last dog to have his picture taken of the 10 dogs in the doggy model call. However, that doesn't make him least! This Morkie (a Maltese/Yorkie mix) was a little shy of the camera at first but once we offered up some treats and toys, he was ready to ham it up! I've always have a soft spot for scruffy dogs so I was totally diggin' the hair on this boy. I just wanted to scoop him up and give him hugs and kisses!
I LOVE the hair on his paws as well as that sweet little nose...
Hudson is rockin' his bad boy 'do in this pic...
I hope you enjoyed Hudson's sneak peak along with all of the other photos from the doggy model call! I'd love to hear your comments and/or suggestions about the images. Plus, I'd love to know if you think studio sessions are something I should offer my clients from now on. I love feedback so feel free to share! A huge *thanks* to everyone that participated and to everyone that has followed the journey on my blog!
Dozer - Studio Session
This little 6-month-old Bulldog has the best name - Dozer - because he bulldozes into everything! Now, just because he's heavy and has a low center of gravity doesn't mean this boy can't move. He can leap with the best of them and has all of his tricks and give-me-food looks down pat...
I think the image on the left shows off Dozer's "I didn't do it, mommy" look...
I love his baby wrinkles!
Stay tuned for more pics of Dozer! His mommy won a Pet Portrait Session at the Dogtopia Dog Wash so I'll be photographing him and his sister in a few months. I'll be curious to see how much he grows! Until then, stay cool Dozer...
Simon - Studio Session
I have never photographed an Afghan Hound so I was very happy when Simon was submitted for the doggy model call! This stunner began his life in the showing world but ended up not being tall enough for the big time. He doesn't let that bother him though! He still struts his stuff with confidence and grace. When we first started the photo shoot, I think Simon thought he was in the showing ring! He just wanted to stand there and look handsome. After some coaxing, he relaxed and let his funny personality shine! Enjoy the sneak peak!
Haha! Wink, wink!
I love the way his hair moved as he played. So graceful...
Sundrop - Studio Session
I loved editing Sundrop's pictures. Why? The whole time I kept singing to myself, "Sundrops keep falling on my head." I know, I know...wrong kind of *drop* but it worked perfectly in my version of the song. Actually, her proper name is Sundrop Puddleton but I couldn't quite get that to fit. Anyway, Sundrop did great during her photo shoot and I hope her mom and dad enjoy her sneak peak as much as I enjoyed making up songs with her name!
I love the way Sundrop pranced around during the shoot. She seemed so happy :)
Check out Sundrop's smile. No, this was NOT photoshopped!
