One of the most rewarding activities I do as a photographer (and trust me, they are ALL rewarding! ) is capturing images of the hopeful hearts cared for by animal rescue organizations. In my previous life I was one of the founding members of Happy Tails Acapulco, a small animal welfare association whose mission was to create a Better World for the Animals living in that city. I know first-hand the deep need each abandoned animal has for a second chance at love and life, and how important compelling photos are in opening the hearts of potential adopters. As a new member of Hearts Speak, I am honored to be a part of this growing international network of compassionate artists helping ...

This week's challenge was to capture images depicting a favorite song.  I didn't have to think hard about this one.  A few months ago, as I was finishing the development of my website, I sat down to find that "perfect melody" to accompany my slideshows.  After many hours of listening, I kept going back to an instrumental piece from the talented artist, Laura Hall because it made me feel so happy.......the way I feel whenever I'm capturing the grace of people + pets with my camera. By sheer coincidence as I was purchasing the license to the music, I discovered that Laura had also written perfect lyrics............and those lyrics have become some of my very favorites. For ...

This book should be on the list of favorites of anyone who has loved and been loved by a dog. Mimi, my Muse Extraordinaire, and I have read it more than once together, and of course this is her favorite spot to read. (Don't be fooled, it was actually bestselling author Peter Mayle's dog "Boy" who wrote the book.)Now take a look at For the Love Pet Photography in Portland, Oregon to see what book she's had her nose in, and follow the blog ring until you arrive back here.  See you next week.

What a great way to end the week! In the company of some terrific pet photographers who I admire greatly, here again participating in the Beautiful Beasties Network's 52 WEEKS Blog ring.We missed Week 1's theme: Introductions.  So I present to you here my "Oreo". One of my "shadows". Never leaves my side. He is a Mixed Breed/Pure Heart; a rescue from Mexico. Several veterinarians told me Oreo would never walk again after both of his hind legs were fractured when he collided violently with a motocycle on a highway in Acapulco. But he proved them wrong.  He runs now, like a Greyhound, true to his Spanish Galgo descent.  He is strong and determined and knows about survival. He ...