This is the second in a three-part series on anticipatory grief and Ever After sessions.
- Anticipatory grief: How the painful journey of losing our dogs begins
- From pain to healing: The transformative journey of Celebration of Love sessions
- Finding the solace: The comfort of pet photography in continuing bonds
One of my very first sessions as a professional dog photographer set my camera upon a sweet pit bull mix with terminal cancer.
Her guardians were soaking in every ounce of love they could in the time they had left. At their session, I witnessed the profound way this young couple adored their girl, and the love that radiated back from her.
In those moments, smiles and laughter emerged, fleeting but powerful instances where the weight of anticipatory grief was momentarily lifted. Though brief, these glimpses of joy signaled the beginning of the couple’s healing journey.
Why book an Ever After session
In a different session, a loving dog mama arrived with an extra level of pain. Her partner couldn’t fathom why she would dare to capture photos of their dog’s last day on Earth.
“The images will just remind us of our pain,” he told her.
“No,” she told me she said to him. “They will remind us of how we loved her.”
Through these two stories, we see the transformative power of dog photography. It’s not just about documenting our dogs’ final days; it’s about celebrating the bond we share and honoring the gifts they’ve given us over the years.
Every Ever After session with me becomes a sacred space where pet guardians can let their emotions flow freely, connect deeply with their dogs and begin their healing journey. As I witness genuine moments of love, trust and companionship, we create tangible reminders of the bond you share. These images serve not just as keepsakes but as symbols of resilience, testaments to the love that will live forever in your heart.
I want your session to help you find moments of peace with your dog, a chance to build an even deeper connection, no matter how soon the goodbye is coming.
Because we are paving the way for healing.
Step 1: Choose the right photographer
This is your most important decision when it comes to documenting these final days or weeks of your best friend’s life.
It isn’t just about finding someone who can use a camera. It’s about finding a professional who understands the depth of the bond you share with your dog and who can navigate this sensitive time with you.
During our first conversation, we’ll chat about your expectations, your hopes and any concerns you may have. I want to set the tone for your session and ensure we’re aligned with our goals.
I want to create a space where you feel comfortable and heard, so I’m going to ask you lots of questions about your dog and the special bond you have together.
Together, we’ll create a customized session that reflects your relationship. We’ll choose a location that is hopefully meaningful to you and your dog, or at least one where any mobility concerns are allayed for you.
Step 2: Preparing for your session
You have enough going on right now. I understand that everything can be a bit overwhelming and confusing, so I want your session to be as stress-free as possible.
We’ve already talked about your dog’s favorite toys, treats, and blankets when we planned your session. I suggest getting those ready the night before so you can focus on what really matters in the hours leading up to our time together: simply being with your dog.
These last moments together are precious, and they don’t need to be rushed or filled with ‘doing.’ Sit with your dog, share their favorite quiet space, stroke their fur and breathe them in. It’s a time for reflecting on the journey you’ve shared, so I want you to allow yourself to be fully present in their company.
Every heartbeat and wag of the tail is a reminder of the incredible bond you’ve built.
I’ll take care of the rest. Your session will flow naturally from the love you’ve shared, and my role is to document that in a way that feels real and true to you.
Step 3: Your session is more than photos
My primary goal is to create images and artwork that immortalize this love, that freeze in time your dog’s personality and the little things that make them who they are.
I am also here to support you, to hold space for whatever comes up – tears, laughter, quiet reflection. I’m a certified pet loss grief companion and grief educator, and I bring that understanding into every session.
This is more than a photo shoot. It’s a deeply personal experience that taps into the heart of your relationship with your dog.
So I want you to simply enjoy these moments with your dog, allow you to be fully present with them. In the end, it’s not just the photos that will matter – it’s the time spent, the connection deepened and the love felt in every second we share together.
Step 4: Creating your legacy
After your session, we work at your pace. There’s no rush, no pressure. When you’re ready, we’ll sit down together – either in person or virtually – to look through your images. I’ll help you select the ones that speak most to your heart, the ones that reflect those priceless moments of connection and love.
As a full-service photographer, I’m here to guide you in creating lasting artwork that honors your dog’s memory. Whether you choose a custom wall art piece, a keepsake album or something else entirely, I’ll make sure it’s something that feels like a true reflection of your journey together.
As we select your favorite images, we’re crafting a legacy of your dog’s memories that will live on in your home and heart. I’ll be with you every step of the way, ensuring that what we create together serves as a lasting reminder of the love and joy you shared with your dog.
Take all the time you need. I’m here to support you, not just as a photographer, but as someone who understands the depth of your grief and the beauty of your bond.