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.
Rehoming a dog is never something any owner plans for their furbaby, but it, unfortunately, happens all too often. Taking the proper steps to find a suitable rehome or a shelter that can foster and care for your companion takes a lot of courage, but it may be what’s best for your pet.
Rebecca Trumbull Photography specializes in documenting furry loved ones. This Toledo photographer believes that all life is important and should be celebrated. While lamenting the long, cold, drab winters we get in northwest Ohio, I decided to come up with a February theme that would help to break the monotony of the season. I felt that a month all about animals was the way to go. Fluff-uary is not just about furry friends like dogs and cats, I happily celebrate all creatures that enrich our lives and give us companionship.
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.”
Not only did I get to work with Bella again, she asked to include her three-year-old family dog, Zula! Pet photography is my niche and I am always happy to accommodate clients who wish to include their dog in their photography sessions. Any breed, any size, any age. I love them all! Zula is the sweetest Rottweiler and what a stunning pair these two made! Please message me with any questions regarding including your pets in your photography sessions and read on to learn more about Bella and Zula.
Being a small business owner in Toledo means I know how much work goes into successfully promoting yourself in any career. Having a great headshot means potential clients and customers know exactly who they will be working with. A person gets to put a face with your name and that can build trust and create a consistent client experience. Having a professional headshot is a really important part of any brand.
“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.
Volunteering with rescue animals has truly given more back to me than I think I have given to them. I have learned so much about dog behavior, how to make them comfortable, direct their attention, and find a way to capture their personalities. I have also learned more about myself as a photographer and that has enabled me to fine tune my brand and find my voice as a professional.
