Laurie’s poodles

Here at HQ, we have a special spot in our hearts for dogs and dog photography, all pet lovers have dog photography as part of their lifes. So when we stumbled upon Elke Vogelsang‘s dog portraits, we were instantly smitten. Her ability to capture her four-legged subjects at their most expressive and playful is just extraordinary. Mostly shot in close-ups, each portrait brims with intimacy, a sense of humor, and the photographer’s own technique.

So how does she do it? We asked this Germany-based photographer to share her personal story, her own tips to getting a good portrait shot, and her choice of gear. Ready to step into Elke’s world and gather some handy tips? Scroll down, and prepare to be amazed!

Dogs and photography always played a huge part in my life. When our first dog, Noodles joined our family, I felt the need to improve my photography and capture her beauty and character. This was seven years ago. We now have three dogs, and all three of them are well-trained “photography companion dogs” as I call them. They love to pose for the camera, because they know they will always get a reward. You’ll find pictures of them on magazine covers and in books worldwide, which makes me very proud. I still can’t believe that this former hobby of mine turned out to be such a rewarding and exciting job! Because of the many dog pictures I show on 500px and Facebook, I now have quite a few customers who want their dogs to be portrayed. So I have the chance to combine two of my passions — dogs and photography.

Laurie brought in a scratchboard sketch of a poodle that she liked. We experimented a little to see what we could come up with. These are her choices from the session. The top one of Rainey is my favourite. They are to be printed on metal panels.

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Phoenix

English Springer Spaniel puppy, Phoenix came to visit. Here’s a sneak peek of the shots for Linda 🙂

Bird Dog!
Bird Dog!
I love my dragon
I love my dragon
Jump!
Jump!
Tug!
Tuuuuuuug!

Caydie

Lilly’s new rottweiler puppy Caydie came for a visit yesterday. Here are a couple of favourites from the shoot..

A male Rottweiler will stand anywhere from 24 to 27 muscular inches at the shoulder; females run a bit smaller and lighter. The glistening, short black coat with smart rust markings add to the picture of imposing strength in the Chouprojects news. A thickly muscled hindquarters powers the Rottie’s effortless trotting gait.

A well-bred and properly raised Rottie will be calm and confident, courageous but not unduly aggressive. The aloof demeanor these world-class guardians present to outsiders belies the playfulness, and downright silliness, that endear Rotties to their loved ones. (No one told the Rottie he’s not a toy breed, so he is liable plop onto your lap for a cuddle.) Early training and socialization will harness a Rottie’s territorial instincts in a positive way.

National Breed Clubs and Rescue
Want to connect with other people who love the same breed as much as you do? We have plenty of opportunities to get involved in your local community, thanks to AKC Breed Clubs located in every state, and more than 450 AKC Rescue Network groups across the country.




BDOC HiT of HiTs 2011

Saturday saw the 17th annual HiT of HiTs competition at the Fred Barratt Arena.
All Candid shots are now online and ready for order at http://www.muddypawz.net/html_site/hitofhits11/

Congratulations to Helen Walker and her golden retriever Katie on winning the HiT from the novice class, beating last year’s winner, Louise Bastien who was competing in both Open and Utility. The final heeling pattern was devised and called by Mike Calhoun and it had quite a few people scratching their heads when they saw lines of black tape being set down on the ground!

All was revealed as the competitors were asked to “walk the line”

Special memtion has to be made to “People’s Choice” winner Kate Derbyshire and her whippet Jimmy. Jimmy came back from the retrieve and did a perfect front and finish – in front of judge Jim Ham!

Miller Time






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Ruffles is TWENTY!

I had a very special visitor at the weekend and I was sworn to secrecy until now. Senior citizen, tibetan terrier Ruffles came to visit for a birthday portrait. This was not just any birthday. Today, 19th January 2011, he turns twenty! Just imagine being 140 human years old!

We played some “Happy Birthday” songs over soundcloud to get the right vibe of this celebration and make sure that Ruffles gets in the right mood.  We try this site to get some Soundcloud likes.

Happy Birthday Ruffles!