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ohio photographer
Why are professional photos important to you? “Although it’s easy to get decent photos with modern technology, even for amateurs, we wanted this moment to be captured by a professional. True editing experience, experience with framing shots, and locations, etc. Those are things that we can’t really do on our own.”
I always enjoy having puppies in the studio. As a pet photographer in Toledo, I am often looking for ways to challenge myself and become better at what I do. I try to work with all sizes, breeds and ages. Volunteering with a local animal rescue, Planned Pethood, has given me opportunities to photograph dogs who might present some challenges. Some rescue dogs are nervous about meeting new people, some have current health issues and many do not have formal training. If I stay patient and make them feel comfortable, I can document each dog despite their circumstances.
“Rebecca gave me an opportunity to see myself in a way that I never had before. I had an image in my mind of what I expected to see in the photos, but instead I saw a happy, successful entrepreneur who was living a really great life. Rebecca you captured my space beautifully and I'm so excited for the next photoshoot!”
I had amateur photos taken of my senior dog a couple years before he passed away and those photos mean the world to me. I wanted to have some for Beau as well because unfortunately, Saints do not live long. Also, Beau is considered a “special needs” dog – he suffers from a mild case of cerebellar hypoplasia. He is an ambassador for rescue, the breed, and special needs dogs everywhere.
“I’ve worked with other photographers and dogs, but Rebecca is special. She connects and cares for every creature and they sense it. She works to create an experience that’s joyful for you and your pet. Whether it’s a family photo or a solo shoot, Rebecca will capture stunning images.”
I’ve discovered over the years that I need to become more present in the current moment. Anxiety is rooted in the fear of the future and depression is rooted in the loss over what has passed. Since dogs are firmly entrenched in the present and are neither thinking of the past or future, I both envy and seek to imitate Kismet’s ability to live in this very moment. Time is precious, and she doesn’t spend her days wishing for what she had or worrying over what is to come.
We joke about Patty, saying she has a magnetic personality that every dog cannot resist. They fall utterly in love with her and she is always a favorite. I can tell you that dogs really do judge character well. Patty pours her whole heart into rescue work. She fosters dogs consecutively without breaks. She transports foster pups on her day off to vet appointments, adoption events and photo shoots. Patty doesn’t just talk about rescue, she lives it. And the dogs can tell.
One of the first things I teach all of my clients are the boundaries for respect. They, their children and their guests should all follow these guidelines.
Some feel hesitant to take new headshots because they might think they see some new wrinkles, a few additional pounds, slightly thinner hair… I want to remind you that what prospective clients actually see in your photo is your friendly smile and your confident posture. They see someone they may feel comfortable working with, comfortable trusting.
This year has been a very solemn year. Many people have struggled with health issues, financial issues, work and school routines. I take this year very seriously in my own personal timeline. As I was editing Mr. and Mrs. Trumbull’s photos, I noticed myself drawn to these dramatic and deep black and white edits. They felt right for the gravity of what 2020 has been. Here, I offer you a selection of my favorite monochromatic images from a most important day.
Rio was adopted as a puppy from Planned Pethood Inc. here in Toledo. Now almost 10, she has become an irreplaceable part of her mom’s life. Quinn adores her “princess” Rio and spoils her in every way. Still appreciative of Planned Pethood’s work even today, Quinn entered their raffle fundraiser for a pet photography session I had donated. Rio got her opportunity to model for me downtown at the Toledo Metropark, Middlegrounds.
Having your employee’s faces on your business website can help your office to stand apart. As I peruse many websites for local businesses and services, I am disappointed at how many do not include the faces of their staff, owners or management. Putting real faces with your brand’s name helps to convey a sense of trustworthiness and responsibility to potential clients.
Why did you include your dog, Ryder, in your photos? Ryder is our family! He will be 2 on August 1st, 2020 and he is a labradoodle. It’s honestly hard to remember what our life was like before we got him. He’s kind of been like our baby before we have a human baby, as he’s helped facilitate communication and responsibility. Having him has been a little bit of a warmup for parenting. We also include him in all of our vacation plans and try to take him with us when we go places if he’s allowed. So, when I thought about getting some maternity photos taken, we of course wanted to include him.
“Rebecca was filled with motivational words, which is what several people need during this pandemic. The world felt uncertain to me, and she reminded me that I certainly deserved an opportunity where I could leverage all of the experience I have gained.”
“Rebecca will work with you on whatever you need and was GREAT with Morgan. She takes everything into consideration when coming for a session. She even brought a small heater so that it was nice and toasty in the areas she took photos! She is also flexible with what you would like. I’m pretty sure I didn’t inform her of the outfit changes but she definitely worked with it!! I would write more, but then how would you get to learn about her yourself? That would take all of the fun right out of it.”
“I’ve been told I have a very warm, calming presence which is really beneficial because most clients come to my chair really nervous for a big event or shoot that I’m getting them ready for. I help them focus and calm their nerves either by talking or using tools/products that help them relax.” -Amy Lewis
Is there a piece of professional advice you received that has stuck with you on your career journey? Every call counts. Every day counts. It's easy to allow negative experiences and failures to discourage you, especially early in your career. However, we can learn from every experience and grow. I believe that failure is essential. I don't fear failure for this reason - I'm actually motivated by it.
How do we cope with loss? We grieve. We remember. We reminisce. We celebrate what was. We cherish what we had. And then we honor their memory by moving forward and living each moment to the fullest. Documenting life is so important to me as a photographer because you get to hold those photos in your hands even after a loved one has passed. You get to relive the happy moments and dwell on the smiles that filled a life.
An important part of the sibling experience, especially in the retelling of memories are photographs. A well done photo can bring back a memory like a movie replaying a famous scene.
With the backing of these licensed professionals it would seem safe to conclude people feel better when they see themselves as being a part of something special like the family unit. Having images displayed around our homes is a way to ensure and encourage the members of that family as being important and included.
