Honoring What Matters Most
Rainbow Sessions are designed specifically for pets who are aging or preparing to cross the Rainbow Bridge. These sessions are a chance to focus entirely on capturing meaningful, expressive portraits of your dog during this deeply significant time.
I can’t turn back time, but what I can do is slow down this moment with you. As Pittsburgh’s first pet photographer certified as a pet loss grief specialist, I bring empathy, calm presence, and thoughtful attention to every step of the experience so you walk away with beautiful images and enduring memories.
It's Never "Just A..."
It's never "just a" dog or "just a" pet. It's the little things that you’ll want to remember forever: the way your dog's paw felt in your hand, his familiar expressions, those funny quirks, and the love you share with one another. I promise to approach our time together with zero judgment and complete compassion.
Your Story at Your Pace
We’ll choose a location together—one that feels meaningful and comfortable—and move slowly to honor both your dog’s physical and emotional needs. I’ll be present with intention, patience, and zero judgment, bringing compassion and presence to every moment we share. Together, we'll tell your story at your pace.
Priority Scheduling Available
Please don’t hesitate to let me know if you think your session may be needed urgently. Every effort will be made to accommodate your desired session date, and I also offer time-sensitive sessions that can be scheduled outside my regular calendar when possible.
Testimonials
"I cannot say enough good things about my experience with Jessica and Bark and Gold Photography! She made the whole experience so much fun and got the best pictures out of my 16-year-old girl, who doesn’t even walk anymore. I have worked with her twice now, and both times I have enjoyed the session so, so much. It’s such a special way to spend time with your pet. The icing on the cake is that the artwork produced is stunning and will be cherished forever."
Audrey's mom, Erin
"Sadly, I had to say goodbye to Finn in late July. I was so happy that I did that final photo shoot, especially since, other than selfies, I didn't have very many pics of Finn and me doing things together. I was usually behind the camera! So those photos (pre-matted and presented in the gorgeous heirloom folio box) are very special to me."
Finn's mom, Becky
"Jes was absolutely the most patient, kindest, and compassionate photographer you would want to handle your precious fur kids. I cannot thank her enough for not only capturing beautiful memories of my girls but for her kindness, compassion, and gentleness with all of us! She is truly a special person (and a strong supporter of animal rescues), and I would highly recommend Bark & Gold Photography to any of you who would be interested in capturing your own special memories."
Angel, Ella, Willa, and Roxy's mom, Pat
"We couldn't be happier with our experience with Bard & Gold! Jess did such a wonderful job during our photo session with our very senior pups. She was patient and kind as they ran and looked in different directions for almost every shot. She was able to edit our photos in such a way that every single one looked like a 'framer', as we call them. All are worthy of being framed and hung prominently in our home. She was also able to schedule us just in time before we had to say goodbye to our beloved Boxer. She helped us create memories that we will cherish forever."
Hooch, Corry, and Winston's mom, Laura
"We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Bark & Gold Photography. Every single detail was clearly communicated to us from beginning to end. Jessica is clearly devoted to making sure that she has plenty of info about your pet and your expectations of the session. She also responds very quickly to emails and is willing to answer any questions you may have throughout the process. I can’t thank Jessica (and her husband) enough for being so patient and gentle with my senior Bull Terrier. The images she captured were beautiful, and I wouldn’t hesitate to use her services again."
Chico's mom, Jen
"You absolutely captured George! They are all beautiful, and please know that this will have a very special place in our home. Thank you for providing us with 'George's senior picture.' You have given us a beautiful keepsake."
George's mom, Christy
Pet loss grief specialist
As a certified pet loss grief specialist, I bring a deeper level of support to clients navigating anticipatory or post-loss grief. This training helps me approach Rainbow Sessions with calm, empathy, and a grounded understanding of what this time can feel like, and how to be present with care.
My background includes focused study in:
As the first pet photographer in the Pittsburgh area to hold this certification, I bring a perspective shaped by both compassion and experience. Your session isn’t just about portraits — it’s about honoring a bond in a way that feels gentle, respectful, and true.