When a client describes her dog as the best thing that has ever happened to her, I know it’s going to be a session filled with joy and love, and that was exactly what I got when Shannon and her eight-year-old black Lab, Layla. A Bark & Gold session had been on Shannon’s wish list for quite some time, but an unexpected illness stemming from food sensitivites that struck Layla last July put that on hold, so when we got her on my schedule in late spring, I couldn’t have been more excited to work with these two.
Layla and her mom Shannon met me at one of my favorite locations, Brady’s Run Park in Beaver County, where I knew this lovely Labby girl would enjoy splashing its creeks and exploring the beautiful wooded areas throughout the park. Can you believe these three portraits were taken within just a few feet of each other?!
Layla also had a blast cooling off in the creeks on this humid June evening, which produced some of the most fun shots, one of which ended up being the featured image for a gorgeous barnwood framed print.
“My brother named Layla after Eric Clapton’s song. I actually really love the name because it means ‘dark beauty,’ but my brother did not know that when he named her,” shares Shannon. “Layla to me means ‘dark beauty,’ but I do occasionally sing her the Clapton song. She hates my singing (seriously)!”
When I gave Shannon the challenge to tell me what she loves most about Layla, it was evident how much she loves this sweet girl.
“Oh goodness, Layla is beautiful. I just love her. Her eyes, smile, excitement, and joy,” says Shannon. “She is a huge sweetheart once you get through the excited barking. She is stubborn and knows what she wants, but will do anything for a treat.”
Layla’s beauty is certainly easy to see. The portrait of Layla looking off into the distance captures her soulfulness and gentleness.
Even prior to her reveal and ordering appointment, Shannon had her eye on barnwood, one of my most popular frame options. She sent me a few photos of the wall in her living room where she was hoping to hang it and explained how it needs something, but that she just hadn’t found the right thing yet, but that a large framed print seemed to be perfect.
When Shannon casually mentioned during our session that her favorite color is teal, I knew I had to suggest this vibrant cover color option as we finalized the 5×5 signature book that she added to her framed print to hold several other favorites of Layla. It’s such a fun color and really popped that gorgeous gold foil imprinting of Layla’s name detailed in the bottom right corner of its leatherette cover.
Shannon, I enjoyed spending the evening with you and Layla who kept me laughing the entire time! Your new barnwood looks absolutely beautiful on your wall and I love how much you love your signature book. The joy and love captured between you two is the reason I do what I do. Thank you again!
If you would like to book a Bark & Gold Photography session for your pet, click here or give me a call at 724-913-BARK (2275). For more information on Bark & Gold Photography sessions, visit “The Experience” in the menu and be sure to share your email on my homepage to join the VIP list.