A lot of my photography depicts super happy times in the lives of people, but it’s also necessary to document the not-so-happy times. Even though it might not seem like it now, the not-so-happy times are still happy because you’re together. So even while you’re fighting a difficult battle, you have each other, and every day is worth celebrating.

It’s the celebration of Zoe’s life that brought Spencer and Ed to me, and I was happy to help them document the love that they have for her, and she for them. It was a bittersweet session, but the sweet outweighs the bitter in that they care so much for this adorable little pup, and they are making sure she makes the most out of her life and is living happily and comfortably in her remaining days. The photos were taken in the gorgeous front yard garden of their house (Ed has worked so hard on it!).

Spencer adopted Zoe when she was just 12 weeks old, and they have an incredibly close bond. That bond was shared when Spencer fell in love with Ed three years ago, and now Zoe loves them both (and vice versa). Zoe, at age 6.5, was diagnosed with lymphoma. While a little tired between rounds of chemo, she is still a major cuddlebug, and happily follows Spencer and Ed around. It was a joy to get to know her fluffy face and to capture the bond between this family (minus the cat, who was out galavanting but I’m sure he shares the same sentiments). I wish Zoe the best with her treatment and care, and know that she has two very loving parents who are making sure she knows she’s loved.

Martha and Justin are dear friends of ours whose wedding we photographed way back in 2011 (!!) and whom we’ve played many games of Killer Bunnies with ever since. Martha’s from Chicago and Justin’s from Minnesota, but they met in Chicago. Martha left to attend Duke, and Justin joined shortly thereafter… and they both became Durhamites through and through. Here they adopted a cat and later had a real human child named Emilia, who is the friendliest and most adorable kid on earth. She is a fantastic hugger and excited ALL THE TIME! and also loves pizza. She is also incredibly patient, especially for a 2.5 year old. I’ve seen her look lovingly at pizza that wasn’t hers (while clapping) yet remaining seated (!) and just politely sitting there until her pizza arrived. I’ve seen grown adults who can’t do that and have zero chill when it comes to waiting for pizza (namely my husband).

Now they are sadly (to us!) moving to Minnesota, and taking their knowledge of amazing food with them (Martha helped us discover the joy that is pupusas, and, of course, El Cuscatleco). We will miss them greatly. They wanted a family session that documented a little bit of their time spent in Durham at the playground in Central Park and The Parlour, where Emilia makes the best ice cream eating face. It’s like the face you would make to imitate a tiger, only instead you’re just eating ice cream. I love her. And them. When we visit you in Minnesota you have to promise you’ll take us to see Prince stuff. xoxo.

When Kristen first wrote me, she told me that she runs a consulting business for dog business owners. And I wrote back, “Wait, what?” First of all, I did not really know that there was an industrial complex known as a dog business. Second of all, I did not know AT ALL that there were indeed coaches! conferences! consulting! branding businesses! ALL built for and around people who own the dog businesses! What! My head exploded and my world got a little bigger. Kristen Lee is, in fact, a dog biz consultant. She helps dog business owners, especially women, find their voice in the industry. She helps them brand themselves and their businesses to take them to the next level. I find it completely fascinating. Kristen came from the corporate world and has been putting her skills to use for the doggo businesses for years, and now she’s developed a following, speaking at conferences and consulting near and far. Part of that following is based on her badass, wild child personality. She’s confident, determined, and likes to give the finger a lot (part of her message of disrupting the norms in the dog business industry). I’m thankful to have been able to update her headshots to reflect her confidence and personality. And of course, if you or someone you know has a dog walking business and are interested in branding, visit Kristen Lee Consulting to learn more!