Sometimes I come across a spectacularly well-named dog, and I just love it when the name I keep calling during their session (usually with little effect, haha) is funny or has a great meaning behind it. This session may have been my all-time favorite: I had the privilege of photographing Mercedes and Jaguar! Both dogs are six years old: Jaguar is a retired greyhound and Mercedes is a Rhodesian ridgeback.

I was extra-excited for this session for another reason: my dog Bailey is part Rhodesian ridgeback (we think!). So it was fascinating to see the purebred version of my mutt, and honestly, I think they have a lot in common personality-wise! They’re both a bit stubborn and don’t have that eager-to-please attitude of, say, a golden retriever. But my gosh, when they run around free of a leash, I’ve hardly seen a dog smile bigger. Mercedes had a huge grin on her face! For now, enjoy these pictures while I keep working on the rest…

Thanks for a great afternoon at the beach, Cheryl!

Tags: beach, dogs, Florida, greyhound, Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, pet photography, pets, photography, rhodesian ridgeback