Photo by Bark Pet Photography

Do you remember this photograph from our fall issue? It was taken by the very talented ladies of Bark Pet Photography and now Kim Rodgers and Sarah Sypniewski have some very exciting news! They have published a book entitled “Dog Photography for Dummies,” containing all sorts of secrets and tips for any aspiring dog photographer!

From a basic portrait to more dynamic lifestyle shots, this book takes you through the various ins and outs of dog photography in a friendly, accessible tone that is both encouraging and insightful. Accompanied by full colour spreads, the narrative reminds you of spending time with a good friend who doubles as a mentor and the well-thought out sections make the entire process from camera to final print easy to follow.

There are so many factors to keep in mind when attempting to capture a pooch’s personality on camera. One must remember how to create a relaxing environment for the shoot, how to frame a shot, how to edit that shot, how to format a model release form and how to display that final polished photo once completed. Dog Photography for Dummies covers all of these topics (and more!), providing detailed examples and step-by-step instructions slathered with inspirational notes. 

With the holidays quickly approaching, this book will make the perfect gift for the dog-lover in your life to help make those festive photos beautiful.

A fun stocking stuffer for any pet lover is an item that showcases their favourite breed. For example, if you know somebody who is crazy for Airedales, the largest of the terrier breeds, you might consider something from this ‘pawsh’ list to bring a bit of extra cheer to their holidays. A simple charming pendant will add some glitter to the season or perhaps a funky piece of original graphic art would better suit the Airedale admirer in your life?

A snazzy signature leash is both practical and pretty, as is the festive gingham neck kerchief. If you’re looking from something that will be used over and over again, you really cannot go wrong with a modernly designed tee or a sleek contemporary iPhone case. Last but not least a trio of whimsical magnets are sure to delight — just like this majestic breed.

Do you have an Airedale in your life? I would love to see some photographs of them! They are a dog who will always be near and dear to my heart as I grew up with two! Feel free to share your mugshots over here!

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Not too long ago we wrote about the beauty of the dog-child bond and how it is a lifelong love affair, an entirely unique relationship that deserves to be documented through a series of professional photographs. Well, unfortunately, we were remiss in our last post! We completely forgot to include the time that baby is just a bump to Fido. Luckily we were reminded by this gorgeous project created by Simply Bloom Photography. How delightful to see the glowing mother-to-be including her fur-babies in the precious pictures! Would you do this?

‘Tis the season for warmth, warmth, warmth! Not only do we mere mortals have to bundle up to keep bitter winds and nasty chills at bay, but so too do our furry sidekicks. Rory was thrilled to receive a darling dog puffer jacket and dog sweater from the new and oh-so stylish canine apparel company, American Digs and here is our pawsh review of each piece with a few candid photos. (Hooray for reviews!)

We’ll begin with the dog puffer coat. Despite its name this garment isn’t overly puffy and thus very easy to slip on and off your wriggling pooch. Rather than taking a ‘slip on over the head’ approach to clothing, this piece instead offers a nifty Velcro fastener that closes up along your dog’s belly — like a human coat.

The rich fleece and quilted micro-fibre shell provides a snuggly blanket of warmth and the exterior is waterproof! Anybody who has a dog that loves to go crazy in the snow and comes back inside drenched will definitely appreciate this jacket. The precise tailoring and bold colours are also delightful qualities, as is the convenient ‘harness hole.’ This coat is practical, modern and memorable.

Next up the beautifully soft Nantucket knit dog sweater. Rory was as pleased as punch to sport this design in pink and as she pranced around the house in it I kept imagining her singing, “I feel pretty, so pretty,” to herself. This dog sweater is lightweight, so although providing a bit of extra warmth (especially to short haired dogs), it wouldn’t be the best choice to wear for a long walk in -30 degrees.

However, for those damp days or quick jaunts outside to collect the mail, this garment would be ideal! It is also light enough to wear for some stylish indoor lounging. In fact, we’re pretty sure Rory will be wearing this to at least one holiday party this year. Machine washable, easy to move around in and soft to the touch, this sweater is as charming as it is adorable.

Be sure to drop by American Digs’ website to see even more sweet canine clothes that are both fun and functional. While you do that, Rory will be busy playing outside, snug as a bug in a fabulous coat that acts like a hug!