I never enjoy getting that kind of email. The message popped up in my inbox, asking for a last-minute photo session, not out of impatience, but out of necessity. I promptly picked up the phone, and Izzy’s mom & I shared a rather emotional phone call as she told me about everything they’ve been through recently. You see, Izzy has a very rare form of cancer, unfortunately – of the tongue – and things had been going downhill fast. So we got together later that very same day, for our Pre-Session Consultation, and found an open day in my schedule just a few days later for the photo session. We didn’t waste any time! And I think it’s important to mention here, so others know: even in my busy season when I’m double-booked with photo sessions & Christmas card requests, I always save room in my schedule for emergencies. And while they’re difficult sessions to photograph, I know they couldn’t be more meaningful to my clients… to have their pet captured before the inevitable goodbye. And while Izzy should have a couple of years left, with the proper treatment – and I definitely hope I get to see her dawdling around years from now! – we certainly didn’t want to take any chances.

Anyways! Enough sad news! Izzy is an absolutely hilarious dog; she has an independent spirit, true to the shar pei breed, and pretty much does whatever she wants. At one point we wanted Izzy to lay down… but she wasn’t in the mood. At another point we thought it’d be fun to run around… and Izzy disagreed. Haha! She just loves to sniff around, explore her surroundings and do her own thing! I loved seeing her independent spirit (what entrepreneur would’t?) and she was lots of fun to work with – even if I had to get extra-creative a few times! :)

Oh those wrinkles. I can’t look at a shar pei and NOT say “awwwww”.

 Despite a few signs of age, Izzy still has the sweetest eyes.

 And this is Izzy’s brother, Pico! He joined us for the photo session since he & Izzy are best buds.

Pico loves his snuggles! Haha, what a goofball!

Jen, thank you again for the opportunity to meet your incredible dogs in a last-minute photo session. I’m so glad I had the chance to work with all three of you! :)