Printz Photography Blog

Check out and bookmark our NEW BLOG!!!

2010-03-16T10:40:00.002-04:00

It's been real, Blogger, but Printz Photography is movin' on! This will be our FINAL post on this blog. We've got a brand new design, located at http://www.printzphotography.com/blog. It's been a bit of a struggle to get it up, but now that's it's "almost" done, I think it's safe to direct you all there. Please let me know what you think!

It's been real, Blogger!

* Lisa

CALL FOR CALENDAR MODELS!!!

2010-02-28T10:18:00.001-05:00

I have decided to put together a Calendar for 2011 made up of dogs in the Hudson Valley. The proceeds from the sales will go to various Rescues and Shelters in the area.

If you'd like your dog included, please send me an email to princeli@optonline.net with a photo of your dog, your name, location, occupation, and anything special you can tell me about your dog. I would like to highlight dogs working in the community some months.

Once I choose the dogs, I'd like to meet with you and take pics a couple times over the course of the year, so I have a lot to choose from when it comes time to put the calendar together.

Thanks in advance!
* Lisa

Want to Win a FREE PHOTO SESSION?

2010-02-14T20:43:00.000-05:00

Would you like a win a free session with me? All you have to do is be within 50 miles of Poughkeepsie, NY, and post how your dog has made you a better person in a reply here, or on our Facebook Page! Tia choose the winner within the next month!

The Walkway over the Hudson

2010-02-02T20:12:00.000-05:00

My daughter, husband and I went for a walk across the Walkway over the Hudson yesterday. It was warm, at 26F... (not) but it's just so awesome up there it really didn't matter, we had a great time! I brought my new Canon s90 I got for xmas instead of one of my big camera bodies and really had a lot of fun with it! It's such a different experience... it's tiny... doesn't have the regular viewfinder... or big lenses... but at the same time, I'm practicing the Chase Jarvis school of, "the best camera is the one you have with you!"

Printz Photography interviewed on Dog Tipper!

2010-01-29T21:38:00.000-05:00

I was recently interviewed by DogTipper.com... If you'd like to check it out, you do so, here!

Thank you Dog Tipper!

*Lisa

How you can HELP ANIMALS IN HAITI

2010-01-23T07:57:00.000-05:00

News from the Unexpected Pit Bull:

"We will be selling our surplus calendars - which we usually print for promotional purposes - to raise funds for the Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti (ARCH). In order to sell as many calendars as possible for this cause, we will offer them at $10 each. 100% of the proceeds from all calendar sales through the end of February, 2010 will be donated to ARCH.

ARCH was created to address the needs of animals in Haiti in this time of crisis. The coalition is headed by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), and consists of a number of animal welfare groups including the ASPCA, American Humane, Best Friends, the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International (please visit their respective websites for more information).

Thank you for considering making an additional calendar purchase and please spread the word so we can raise as much money as possible for ARCH."

$10 for a great calendar - $10 to help Animals in Haiti - if you're interested, click here and order your calendar now!

Paying it Forward....

2010-01-21T19:44:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, I was deeply moved by the amazing group of dogs and volunteers I met through Greyhound Rescue and Rehabilitation of Cross River, NY. I have decided to run a SPECIAL, specifically for people who have adopted an ex-racing Greyhound. If you simply "book" a session (it can be for a later date) between now, and the end of February, 2010, I will take 25% off of your total purchase, and, will donate that 25% to Greyhound Rescue & Rehab, on your behalf.

Greyhound Haul #2 from Mass....

2010-01-19T20:51:00.000-05:00

This is an absolutely amazing group of volunteers. Every single one of them goes above and beyond... the love & dedication they show these dogs is really quite remarkable.

The Art of Greyhound Rescue....

2010-01-13T15:25:00.000-05:00

This past weekend I had the privilege of documenting the process of taking ex-racing Greyhounds into a Rescue by NY Greyhound Rescue and Rehab. The Raynham/Taunton, Mass., greyhound track closed down on January 1st, 2010. These 6 beautiful souls, ranging in age from 3 to 5 years old... went through a major right of passage last Saturday, where their old life on the track came to an end, and a new journey began... I felt honored to bear witness to this... cleansing ritual of sorts... or, that's at least where I chose to put my focus for the sake of this album, as it seemed totally appropriate. Oh.... and BTW, there is a chance that some of these pics might be shown on a major news channel!

(click on each image to see full size)

Trudy!!!

2010-01-09T07:11:00.001-05:00

One look at this girl, and you can see she has had a challenging past.... but.... her positive attitude and great sense of humor are a testament to the amazing, forgiving and kind nature of Pit Bulls. This is one great girl, and she definitely should have the BEST. If you think you might have what she deserves, please fill out an application for her here:
(dbl click on images to see in full size)

Diego!

2010-01-09T07:06:00.001-05:00

Diego is the sweetest little pup... His light green eyes and blonde coat are simply the icing on the cake.. his sweetness will most definitely melt your heart! If you think you might want to add Diego to your family... please fill out an application for him here:
(Dbl click on images to see in full size)

Hercules!

2010-01-09T06:59:00.000-05:00

"Clever," should be Hercules's middle name. I fell in love with his eagerness to please, and super smart nature. About 8 months old, Hercules is ready to find his forever home. If you think he's got what your family's missing, please start by filling out an application for him right here!
(click on images to see full sized photos)

Happy 2010 - the Year of the Tiger!

2010-01-02T18:14:00.000-05:00

Thanks everyone, for a really great 2009. I took some pics at the New Year's celebration at my parents' house.... and since it's the year of the Tiger - thought you'd appreciate some pics of their "Tiger," Koko.... 17 years old, and "solid muscle..." according to my mom.... what a character..... Here's to amazing times and dreams realized in 2010!

Happy Holidays - 2009!

2009-12-22T09:14:00.001-05:00

2009 has been a fabulous year for us at Printz Photography and I'd like to thank all of our friends and clients, as it wouldn't have been possible without you!

My hope was to test out my new 5D Mark II during the much anticipated SNOW STORM we were SUPPOSED to get this past Sunday and post those photograph here..... but..... the storm decided to veer around Dutchess County, New York, completely... and while people South of us received between 8" and 20" of the fluffy white stuff, we received ZERO.

Therefore, I will post this picture I took on Sunday instead. My two babies, chillin' in my bed, after a day of baking Holiday cookies...

Happy Holidays all... and best wishes for a 2010 that brings you all that you wish for, and brings you closer than ever before, to your heart. Cheers! (double click to see image in full size)

A typical November evening.....

2009-11-28T12:36:00.000-05:00

Every day, whether it's a clear night with stars as far as one can see, a night so dark one can barely see one's own hand infront of one's face, whether it's raining, snowing, or a full blown storm, I go out to feed and close up the chickens and the goats.

The chickens go in by themselves, each to their own respective coops, (we have 3) but it's my job to close up their doors, to keep the predators at bay.

On one side of our property, there's a strip of forest. The wind blowing through the trees creates what's music to my ears... a choreography of clicking, cracking trees, rustling leaves, often complimented by the sound of a train in the distance traveling up the West side of the Hudson River where the sun has set.

We have over 30 chickens, 1/2 are geriatric and no longer very productive with their egg laying, and more than half of whom just started laying eggs over the last month or two...

No matter how much I resist going out sometimes, as I walk back from the coops and see the goats content as they munch away at their hay.... I love our farm and how it never fails to reconnect me to what's important in life.

Sallie Racer

2009-11-21T11:28:00.000-05:00

(Double click on images to see full sized.)
Meet Sallie, a very lovely lady available for Adoption at Animal Farm Foundation....

She's a super happy, smilin' Pit Bull

who can balance the World on the tip of her nose!!!

Would you like to welcome Sallie into your home for the Holidays? Fill out an application here!

Give a Gift that Gives - Pay it Forward This Holiday Season!

2009-11-13T18:31:00.001-05:00

Do you love Pit Bulls or know someone that does? A friend of mine puts together an amazing Pit Bull Calendar, of which 100% of the proceeds go to Pit Bull Rescue and organizations. They make a great stocking stuffer or gift for a friend, and most importantly, pay it forward... Imagine if everyone gave gifts with this in mind? To order one, please visit The Unexpected Pit Bull's Website.

Autumn Aussies!

2009-11-12T14:20:00.001-05:00

Meet Rescue and Bandit, two super smart, adorable, siblings. It was a beautiful fall afternoon and these two were such a pleasure to work with! We did a little sun chasing, but found some great spots down a long trail and along the river. Enjoy ~

Rescue:

Bandit:

Look at those EARS!

More photos of Emma, the gorgeous Golden and her Mamma!

2009-11-05T15:05:00.000-05:00

I don't get to photograph very many people, as honestly, they just don't want to be in the pictures, but this was not the case with Emma's mom, and you can see why... She really photographs beautifully! I had the absolute biggest grin on my face as I processed these pics. The deep bond, and love these two have for one another is sooo evident here. I LOVE seeing this. This is a woman who will stay in Friday night, if Emma was cooped up all day... Who bases her vacations around Emma, etc. I can totally relate to this, and feel I was able to capture this special bond on this amazing fall day, so will share some more of the pics from that day with you here! Enjoy! (click to enlarge!)

Howl'oween @Pause Dog Boutique in Rhinebeck!

2009-11-02T21:21:00.001-05:00

Despite the rainy Halloween weather, 42 dogs made it out to the first annual Pause Dog Boutique Howl'oween Dog Costume Parade! A lot of fun was had by all, well, almost everyone! Even the dogs wearing elaborate costumes were "uber" good sports about it!
Double click on images to see in full size!

Adorable Smiling Jack Russel Princess from Russell Refuge, in Rhinebeck!

Another handsome adoptable, from Russell Refuge!

Gorgeous Golden Autumn!

2009-10-28T11:55:00.000-04:00

Tia and I had such a good time photographing Emma and her Momma this past weekend. The Fall colors in NY were just amazing, and really compliment these two well! Emma is just the absolute sweetest girl... really... so laid back and happy, it was such a pleasure! Remember to double click on the images to see them full sized.

Holly, Izzy & Harley

2009-10-27T20:33:00.001-04:00

I absolutely adore Bostons, and these three were just tooooo cute. There's Harley, a spunky lilttle boy and the youngest of the bunch, and then the two ladies, Izzy and Holly. Tia and I had SO much fun playing with these three!

Harley with his kindling... reminded me a lot of Taiho, our Pit Bull, with his logs for some reason!

Holly and Harley... Harley seemed to absorb Holly's grace whenever he was close to her....

I love how worn out dogs get towards the end of a session.... these were some of the last photos I took that day.

Meet Pugsley!!!

2009-10-12T14:41:00.001-04:00

And this is Pugsley, Webster's (below) sista..... Just thought I'd share a couple, and give Lisa a tiny sneak peak!
(click on image to see in full size)

Break time....

2009-10-12T13:49:00.001-04:00

Something I love about this pic, taken while we took a break from our photo shoot this morning....

Meet Obi

2009-10-10T11:04:00.000-04:00

(click on image to enlarge)
Obi is a large, Rhodesian Ridgeback from New Jersey. I caught him in a contemplative moment here... thought I'd share:

Marie's Tear Stain Removed

2009-10-07T21:10:00.000-04:00

here you go, Michele ~

Before:

After:

And 16 X 20 would be shaped like this...

All three of these as canvases will be cropped in tighter around Marie's face.... as you have to consider the inch or more that is going to get wrapped around the frame.

Iggy's October Swim

2009-10-05T07:56:00.000-04:00

(double click on images to view in full size)
Iggy absolutely loves to swim. I'm not sure which is more important to him.... watching over his big sister Tia... making sure the pool has no leaf or dead bug debris floating in it... or kissing Tia (there's always a small chance, in his mind, she might be low on oxygen and need mouth to mouth....

K104 Poochapalooza Dog Event - Images

2009-09-28T16:46:00.001-04:00

This event was HUGE! I've never seen so many dogs in one place, and soooo happy too! They had dog parks (one for large dogs, one for small) dog water fountains, great vendors, great food, fabulous weather, all in all, it was an amazing day! Now, I've got to plug away at the HUGE number of pics I took! Remember to click on the images to enlarge them!

Poochapalooza - September 26th, 2009

2009-09-16T11:32:00.001-04:00

Printz Photography will be the official photographer for K104's, third annual Poochapalooza this year, please come and say hello! Money is being raised for local shelters, so please, come, meet us, bring your dogs, enter some contests, help animals in need and have a ball! This is the perfect time of the year to spend time outdoors with your dogs! Hope to see you there!

a little more about Canada Geese....

2009-09-12T11:35:00.001-04:00

Their calls stir so many thoughts, feelings, memories and emotions inside of me, having grown up on a property with 2 ponds and 3 families of geese for the first 15 years of my life... One of my advisors, Veda Andrus from Goddard College shared this story with me, and I'll share it with you here. It's pretty amazing.

The Goose Story
Next fall, when you see Geese heading South
for the winter… flying along in V formation…
You might consider what science has discovered
as to why they fly that way:

As each bird flaps its Wings, it creates
an Uplift for the bird immediately following.

By flying in V formation the whole flock adds
at least 71% greater flying range
than if each bird flew on its own.

When a goose falls out of formation
it suddenly feels the drag and resistance
of trying to go it alone… and quickly
gets back into the formation to take advantage
of the lifting power of the bird in front.

When the Head goose gets tired it rotates back
in the Wing and another goose flies Point.

Geese honk from behind to encourage those up front
to keep up their speed.

Finally… and this is Important… when a goose gets sick,
or it is wounded by Gunshots, and falls out of Formation
two other geese fall out with that goose and
follow it down to lend help and protection.
They stay with the fallen goose until it is able to fly
or until it dies; and only then do they launch out
on their own, or with another Formation
to catch up with their group.

Dr. Harry Clarke Noyes

I woke up to the sound of Canada Geese flying overhead this morning...

2009-09-12T08:55:00.001-04:00

Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year. I can best describe what it represents to me, using the Japanese word, "Yugen," which means, a beauty tinged with sadness.

Last Fall I did a series of photos entitled, "Letting Go." I thought I'd put a link to it here, but for some reason, I can no longer find it... (?) so I will re-post them.

I, personally, have trouble letting go, and have to constantly remind myself of the importance of it... on so many levels. Enjoy ~

Photography as Practice....

2009-09-09T13:00:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I get so caught up in my business that I forget to stop and notice the beauty I'm surrounded by. My camera is the vehicle that slows me down... that brings me into the present moment, to really appreciate the little things about my life here I am so grateful for. I guess you could call it my "practice."

We're entering my absolute favorite time of the year. The humidity is lifting, and the earthy colors of autumn are slowly starting to reveal themselves.

The chicks we got this spring have grown into gorgeous adults, we've got Light Brahmas, Dark Brahmas and Aurocana's. I think one or two of the 25 hens might have just started laying eggs, and hopefully within the month, we'll have a good supply again so I can start bartering with my potter friends again! :-)

As always, if you'd like to see an image in its full size, just double click on it.

Cheers!
*Lisa

Cell Phone Pic

2009-09-04T20:49:00.000-04:00

Drama, just all the way around here.... Lukas (the cat) stuck (not really, but playing it off very well) in the GARBAGE drawer... and Iggy being VERY concerned (truly) ...

Rosie is a Cover Girl!!!

2009-09-04T20:29:00.000-04:00

A photo I took of Rosie at one of the Pause Yappy Hour's this summer made the cover of the Fall issue of About Town, Community Guide to Rhinebeck, Red Hook, Tivoli, Hudson and Surrounding Areas!

Should I Change my Blog?

2009-09-02T22:57:00.000-04:00

I am thinking about upgrading my blog to a Wordpress blog. If you have any experience with them, I'd love to hear your thoughts! One of the reasons I'm considering switching is that it's really difficult to leave comments on a Blogger Blog. I also like how many of the Wordpress Blogs I've seen have much larger photos, nice backgrounds, Flash capability, etc.

If you're a photographer, do you think it's worthwhile to get control a Wordpress Blog via ProPhoto Blogs? It seems for a nominal fee you can get a whole bunch of control options...

If you have any comments, I'd really appreciate your feedback! Do you think the current method of posting on my blog is cumbersome? If it was easier, would you be more inclined to post comments?

Thanks in advance,

* Lisa

The Dutchess County Fair - 2009

2009-08-30T11:13:00.001-04:00

We were thrilled to be at the Dutchess County Fair this year, sharing a space with Pause Dog Boutique & Sirius Dog Training in the Canine Tent! (as always, by clicking on the images you can view them in Full Size.)

The Animal Farm Foundation Crew!

Ashley and her handsome boy, Abe - an amazing ambassador for the Pit Bulls!

This is Bonnie, minding the AFF donations, and YES, this beautiful pup is AVAILABLE! You can fill out an application for her HERE

This amazing girl was walking around collecting money for Laborador Retriever Rescue. She was soooo sweet... can you see how proud she is? Seriously, it was as if those dollar bills inside the basket were her pups or something.... she was so proud of them.

Another one of my favorite rescues in the area is Russell Refuge, of Rhinebeck, NY with all their adorable Jack Russell Terriers.

One of the Dock Diving dogs from Ledgewood Kennels -- Look at that FORM! :-)

The miniscule eggs in the far top right of this incubator hatch the TINIEST little birds... and being in the CHICKEN area, I was under the impression they were chickens too, but for the life of me, couldn't figure out what the heck would be 1/4 the size of a tiny bantam chick! They were so small they had marbles in their waterers to prevent them from drowning! It turns out, they are NOT chickens, they're quail! Very cute little guys, none the less.

A very cute miniature horse and her foal:

I always feel sorry for Elephants at places like this though...

I'm going to end this post with Mr. Camel.

Okay, so this sweet guy... OMG... He was in the petting zoo area, in the center, with goats and sheep all around the perimeter of his little area, so he had to reach his long neck over them to try and get fed, BUT, nobody was feeding him. Why? Because they all thought he was MEAN and would SPIT on them. He was getting increasingly depressed and hurt, swaying back and forth as the crowds continued to demonize him. Feeling badly, Tia and I fed him. We found him to be woefully misunderstood and quite the contrary, very sweet and appreciative ... SO, we convinced a bunch of the folks he was sweet and gentle and made sure they all fed him too, before we left.

Macromutt.com

2009-08-27T07:23:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Chris, for Featuring Printz Photography on his site, MacroMutt.com today - a great Database of Pet Photographers and information for anyone interested in photographing their pet!

Come See US @ the Dutchess County Fair in the Canine Tent and help Feed the Pets of the Homeless!

2009-08-25T18:39:00.001-04:00

Come visit us all this week at the Dutchess County Fair at the Rhinebeck Fairgrounds - we're in the Canine Tent! It's a lot of fun, for so many reasons. There are tons of farm animals, and then of course, loads of dogs and dog related events in our tent! We have dock diving just outside, agility inside, tons of rescues and adoptable dogs such as Russell Refuge, Animal Farm Foundation, and of course, US!

I am selling raffle tickets to raise money for a REALLY good cause, Feeding Pets of the Homeless. A ticket gets you a chance to win 3 - 8X10 prints, so if you're considering getting Fall pics of your dog, this would be a huge value, but most importantly, proceeds help some people and pets that REALLY need it.

$1 = 1 ticket
$10 = 12 tickets
$20 = 25 tickets.

100% of the proceeds will be used to supply Dogs and Cats belonging to Homeless People, Food and Veterinary Care! How AWESOME is that? Gives me goosebumps, for some reason...

If you're NOT going to the Fair, or just don't plan on getting a photo session anytime soon, you can still MAKE A DONATION. You can either, send it to me at:

Printz Photography
553 Salt Point Tpke
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

.... and I will send it on to the Pet Food Pantry through the Dutchess County Community Action Partnership in Dover Plains, NY first thing next week or..... If you want to send it directly to them at any time afterwards, you can send it yourself to:

DCCAP Southern Dutchess County (Dutchess County Community Action Partnership)
3414 Route 22
Dover Plains, NY 12522
(845) 877-9272

(photo by Ana Muller)

(photo by Kirsten Bole)

In Memory of Jasper Jons: ? - August 19, 2009

2009-08-20T08:41:00.000-04:00

Jasper came with our house/farm when we moved here 9 years ago. He was the "barn cat" with no name. We promptly dubbed him, Jasper Jons. He seemed thrilled to have a name, and to be considered part of a family. He never came inside the house, he was a true outdoor cat -- that's where he was happiest. He hung out with my boys and their friends in the barn and brought mice and moles to them up in the hayloft. He really was a true ROLE MODEL. Things I've learned from Jasper:

1. savor the moment.
2. we've got everything we need to be happy, inside ourselves.
3. Have no fear.
4. TAKE THE TIME to appreciate the simple things (sunshine, a cool breeze, a gentle shower, a downpour, dusk, dawn, spring, summer, fall, winter) 5. Love, forgive, and love some more.

Jasper Jons passed away yesterday, and though my heart hurts and I miss him deeply, I will carry these lessons I've learned from him with me, always.

I will always love you Jasper, thanks for everything you've contributed to our family.

Pug

2009-08-12T14:26:00.001-04:00

Pug-a-liscious cuties, Rosie & Mikey!

2009-08-04T11:35:00.001-04:00

I first met Rosie and Mikey at Mickey's Mile.... We've looked forward to this session for some time, now... everyone was SO excited... They were just TOO cute!!

p.s. Can you tell which one is from a Rescue??? Point.... bet you can't!

Yappy Hour at Pause in Rhinebeck 08.01.09

2009-08-04T07:53:00.000-04:00

So, after dinner at Gigi's with the our dogs... a lot of people migrate across the street to the Yappy Hour. Each week a certain theme seems to evolve.... and this week, it was definitely, FRENCHIE FEVER! Check it out.... they seemed SO excited... it was as if they were saying, "Hey, you talk just like me!! You stomp your front feet when you're excited? SO DO I!!!" I have a bunch more pics but Blogger is giving me a hard time uploading so you will have to wait, or, you can visit Printz Photo on Facebook (click on FB page thumbnail on right side of blog someplace) and see all 40! BTW, I'd love peoples' feedback on which they visit more... This Blog, or the Facebook page... as these posts are starting to feel so redundant! Thanks in advance! * Lisa

A Lazy Sunday for My Best Boy Iggy.....

2009-08-03T06:52:00.000-04:00

click to enlarge

A Shout out for Gigi's Trattoria, Rhinebeck, NY

2009-08-02T09:41:00.000-04:00

If you visit my blog, you love dogs... and so I absolutely HAVE to recommend a restaurant in Rhinebeck to you all. It's called Gigi's Trattoria and it is TOTALLY dog friendly. We ate dinner there yesterday, before going to the Yappy Hour at Pause like we've been doing for a few Saturdays and sat outside. It was an awesome site. Probably a dog at 9 tables out of 10... The waiters and waitresses would bring out the bread and place it on the table for the humans, and simultaneously squat down and place a fresh bowl of water and treats (from Pause) for the dogs! They smoothly and conscientiously navigated the crossed leashes and occasional barking dog as they served the humans their consistently amazing "Hudson Valley Mediterranean" cuisine, crafted from the plethora of fine ingredients available from the local Hudson Valley farms... If you haven't yet, take your dog and go have a great meal!

Yappy Hour at Pause in Rhinebeck 07.25.09

2009-08-02T07:34:00.000-04:00

Yappy hours at Pause are really turning into a great time for humans and dogs to socialize, if you haven't made it to one yet, they will continue through the month of August every Saturday, so I highly recommend them. Laura has a different special running during each one and her store is open, so you might also end up with a special treat. Each week it takes on a different feel... This gorgeous evening (she's been lucky!) brought an empty back parking lot, and several awesome games of fetch!

Yappy Hour Primer...

2009-07-26T17:07:00.001-04:00

Here's the first pic from Yappy Hour this Saturday, 7.25.2009! This is Casey, and his mom Brannon, of the Handmade Hound! Printz Photography's own dogs will soon be sportin', and modeling, some of their custom coats, of which a percentage of the proceeds go to, Greyhound Rescue! Now look at this handsome boy!! (please dbl click on image to see full sized)

In Memory of Dodger

2009-07-26T15:10:00.000-04:00

I photographed Dodger and his buddy Bopsy this spring. I recently heard that Dodger passed away from Cancer. It is so hard to lose a dog, as far as I can see, the only problem they have, (for selfish reasons) is that their lives are far too short. Rest in Peace, Dear Dodger...

AUGUST SPECIAL OFFER

2009-07-22T08:34:00.000-04:00

I've decided to run a SPECIAL for the LAZY HAZY RAINY DAZE OF AUGUST! Through-out this month, take 25% off both the Session Fee and Prints!

(This offer is only good for sessions booked FOR the month of August.)

More Charlie!

2009-07-20T16:39:00.000-04:00

I don't always post pics from my sessions in this blog, as honestly, I just don't have the time... but... I had to make an exception here, as I am just so proud of the evolution of Charlie... from timid pup when we first met him, to super-model-extraordinaire, within a very short period of time. Lots of treats, and a fabulous assistant totally contributed to this, as did Charlie's great personality, and the very relaxed attitudes of his mom & dad. So, without further ado.. (and please, click on the images to see them full sized and Charlie, in all of his "stuning'ness..."

Pause Dog Boutique's Yappy Hour - 07-18-2009

2009-07-20T15:07:00.000-04:00

Another GREAT Yappy Hour! So much fun was had by all - two legged and 4 legged! Laura plans to hold Yappy Hours every Saturday through July and August - and Tia and I plan to be at as many as possible -- I hope to see you there!
As always, click on images to enlarge. Enjoy....

Charlie, the Supa-STAHHH!

2009-07-15T13:06:00.000-04:00

(click to enlarge)

Meet Charlie! I have to post him because he is special to me for many reasons -- He is the FIRST Pug I've had the privilege to photograph, and, his Mama was worried because he is very nervous with new people... When we first arrived, he barked in fear for a little bit... but then look at him here, 30 minutes into his session.. Can you say, "super model extraordinare???" He was AMAZING... we all had a GREAT time, and I honestly believe Charlie had a blast. I might post more later.. Thanks Katie & Charlie!

Pause Dog Boutique's Yappy Hours!

2009-07-13T22:47:00.000-04:00

Remember the photos from the Yappy Hour at Pause Dog Boutique last month? Did you find yourself wishing you had gone? Laura has decided to hold Yappy Hours every Saturday, from 6 - 8pm, through the month of August! I will try and be at every one with my camera in hand. The store is located in beautiful Rhinebeck, across the street from Gigi's in Montgomery Row. It's in the back, next to the Paper Trail, a safe place for dogs and their humans to socialize! It'll definitely be a great time for you, and your dogs! I hope to see many of you there! Oh, and Tia will be the official "Bark-tender!"

The Handmade Hound

2009-07-11T10:28:00.000-04:00

I just had the pleasure of learning about the Handmade Hound. A business started by Brannon Conza. The following is part of an email she sent me:

"I was inspired to start it (her business) because as you may know, greyhounds have nearly no fat below their skin, and so chill quite easily in the cooler weather. A coat is just an absolute must-have. But I figured why overpay for a coat I didn't love when I could happily (and more affordably) sew my own coats for our dog Casey. This blossomed into the idea that I could sew coats for other greyhounds, and even other breeds. As the months went on I decided to add custom & personalized bandanas, as well as all natural handmade dog treats. I also decided to donate 10% of all my net proceeds to the greyhound group I volunteer with (and the one that Casey came from) Greyhound Rescue Rehab of NY. They are a fantastic registered not-for-profit organization who has adopted out roughly 800 dogs in the last 10 year or so - including around 3 dozen over the last several months who were rescues from Guam, where a track closed and dogs were let loose into the jungle. I simply LOVE this organization, and volunteer with them at greyhound meet & greets, but I wanted to do more - so I'm contributing those portions of my proceeds to them."

I can totally identify with Brannon's passion for helping rescue, and admire her efforts. Printz Photography is going to be photographing some of her coats, using our own dogs as "models," so stay tuned for pics! It's so important to support local businesses, I try my best to shop local at all times, I hope you'll consider it too!

"ENOUGH"

2009-07-06T12:20:00.000-04:00

This is a cross post for my two friends, Kate Fraser and Beth Connolly. They both work tirelessly at the Pit Bull Rescue org, Animal Farm Foundation. and I have the utmost respect for them, and everything they do for this amazing breed.

Kate wrote:

Subject: A Blog worth reading...

My co-worked and friend Beth Connolly-Horton is not only a lover of animals, and all around good Gal, she is also a talented artist. When we met four years ago, she was working with the horses at the farm and came to work with the dogs "part-time". She had a wonderful little rescued beagle, Bishop, who was a little gray around the muzzle, but had a strong spirit and that unique beagle sense of humor! (He used to honk Beth's car horn if she was late with his lunch!) We used to say that he guarded the pit bulls and when he died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 13, everyone mourned his loss. A couple of months after Bishop left to become an angle, a litter of pups came to AFF and among them Bethy found her next dog, Ziggy Marley. Zig and Beth have an amazing bond and compete (and win) in Rally-O competitions.

It wasn't long after Beth started working with the dogs that she began painting portraits of them. The portrait she did of AFF's Ambassador dog Snoopy was one of her first and it is one of my most cherished possessions. Many portraits have followed, some are of dogs that went on to live happy lives with their adoptive families. Others are of dogs whose journey ended at AFF, but who nonetheless, knew love and caring and compassion perhaps for the first time in their lives.

I believe the people who work with the dogs are also on a journey. Bethy not only found Zig and more recently Kane, she found a passion as an advocate for pit bull dogs that she may not have known if she hadn't made that trip down Puglsey Hill from the stables to the shelter four years ago. I'm sure glad she did. Not only does she capture the dogs through her art, she has also become a great blogger and they are one of her favorite subjects. This is the link to her most recent blog, I think its one of her best so far, please give it a read.

Click here.

All the best to each of you,
Kate

p.s.
Beth has started a new blog, inspired by Holly. It is called Painting4theVoiceless Please visit and become a follower!
* Lisa

July 2nd SURPRISE......

2009-07-02T17:53:00.000-04:00

This morning when I went outside to open up the chicken coops and feed the goats, I noticed an Auracana hen was out. This is unusual because we close the chickens up every night, but I have actually noticed her out a few times before this month, and wondered how and why that was. Today, when I looked again, I noticed she had 7 tiny little chicks walking closely by her side!

Chickens go "broody" from time to time, (obsessed with hatching eggs) but we rarely let them hatch them, for fear we'll get too many roosters. Well, Mama Auracana was sure determined to have her way... as she succeeded in secretly laying a bunch of eggs, away from her coop, AND successfully sitting on them for 21 days!

We couldn't leave them outside, as I didn't want to chance having Mama or any of her babies caught by predators, I called Tia, and she and I caught them all. This sure as heck was NOT easy... I grabbed Mama first... and maan, did this chicken FIGHT not to be held! With her held tightly in my left arm, I managed to somehow catch three chicks with my free hand while Tia (like Mama like Daughter?) caught the remaining FOUR chicks. We were determined to catch them all, because if we left any behind, we might never find them in the tall grass of the goat pen.

We decided to put them into our third chicken coop, which has been empty for the last couple of years. We made our way over there holding mama and 7 chicks between the two of us, and plopped the family into safety.

Just inside the door to the right are 4 laying boxes that sit about 36" off the ground. Tia and I were shocked to discover that this was where Mama auracana had made her nest! There were many broken eggs, and sadly, two chicks that didn't make it, too.... Can you just picture the 7 little guys that made it, JUMPING to the ground from up there??? Nature... it NEVER ceases to AMAZE me.

I left out how when I climbed the goat fence to get to the chicks, a rail broke.... so the goats could have escaped... thankfully they didn't.

I also didn't mention how when we first put the chicks down in the coop, 5 of them ran straight to the opposite end of the coop and OUT a tiny, and I mean TINY hole... Tia and I caught them, and then I spent the next 30 minutes moving cinder blocks around to block any potential escape holes....

Mama and babies are now safe and sound in their coop. Lastly, I should share the fact that our Auracana mix rooster Voldemort, that lived with the Auracana hens, died last month. I wonder if there's any chance that Mama Auracana's brave determination was born from a desire to bear his young? We'll never really know, but one thing I do know... I love living on a farm, and have so much respect for all the critters who live with us on it.

Oh, and one more thing. Yesterday was Tia's birthday. I'm SURE some of this group shares a birthday with her. How cool is that?

The First Annual Pet Palooza at Poet's Walk in Rhinebeck!

2009-06-18T09:11:00.000-04:00

Jennifer Morris of Pre-furred Pet Sitters organized the first annual Pet Palooza, held last weekend at Poet's Walk in Rhinebeck, NY. Her intention was to both raise money for P.A.N.T., the Partnership for Animals Needing Transition, an animal welfare organization, AND to help gain more exposure for many of the pet-related businesses in the Northern Dutchess area during these difficult economic times. Some of the vendors present were, Melissa Crapser of Healing Paws, Pause Dog Boutique, Sirius Play Dog Training, Positive Paws Dog Training School, Russell Refuge, P.A.N.T., Pre-Furred Pet Sitters, Aussie Pet Mobile, Agway and Scenic Hudson. There was food provided by Spacey Traci, and music by 93.3. It was a huge success -- and I want to congratulate Jennifer for the amazing job she did! It was really a lot of fun for everyone who was in attendance!
(to enlarge images, double click)

Yappy Hour at Pause in Rhinebeck 6.12.09

2009-06-16T18:08:00.000-04:00

What a great event! Laura went above and beyond to make her store and sidewalk outside her store a great place for both dogs and their people to hang together! Her new store is in such a great space, it really looks great. Thanks Laura!
(double click on each image to see full size)

Mickey's Mile Pics

2009-06-14T10:27:00.001-04:00

I had a great time at Mickey's Mile! I'm still learning about events... but this is one that I would highly recommend and will definitely return to next year! When I first spoke with Camille on the phone, she brought tears to my eyes, and, gave me goosebumps. She lost her soul dog Mickey to a rare form of cancer 5 years ago, and turned her grief around and started this walk to raise funds for Canine Cancer research. The event has grown significantly each year, and everyone I met could not say enough good things about it. There were many vendors, a steel drum band, food, demonstrations, raffles, and of course, the walk with all the dogs. There were all sorts of dogs too... dressed up, au natural, dogs with cancer, humans with cancer, it was really a moving event in many ways and I feel honored to have been invited.
(please double click images to see in full size!)

Beautiful Betty!

2009-06-06T15:22:00.000-04:00

Betty is all wags, and would make someone a very nice co-pilot! For more on Betty, visit the Animal Farm Foundation Website

GREAT NEWS!!

2009-06-06T08:52:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to announce that Printz Photography is going to be collaborating with The Unexpected Pit Bull on future projects to benefit the breed we both love! They have been making fabulous calendars for several years with the help of Photographer, Laura Moss, and though the calendar will remain exclusively her project, Printz Photography will be working with them to start some others!

If you don't have their 2009 calendar yet, you can purchase one HERE. Of course, all proceeds go to an organization that works to help this wonderful breed.

We just started a FB page together, so please, check it out and become a FAN and show your support! Thanks so much!

Sgt. Stubby has MY attention!

2009-06-05T18:57:00.000-04:00

OMG, this is one VERY cute little guy! Sorry for some of the blurry shots, but he got a case of the zoomies and BOY is he FAST! Hopefully, blurriness aside, you can see the CUTENESS factor in Stubbs, is way over the red line! He's a little squat guy... with this adorable tooth that gets stuck outside of his lip from time to time.. Remember to double click on the images to see HIM full sized, and if you're interested -- please go to Animal Farm's website: www.animalfarmfoundation.org

Meet Ramsey!

2009-06-03T18:43:00.000-04:00

What an sweet, sweet boy Ramsey is! He's got a very soft, gentle nature with an inner comedian laying beneath it all... I believe he's around 10 months old, but he really has a lot of wisdom about him... If you're interested, he's at Animal Farm and you can fill out an application at www.animalfarmfoundation.org
(don't forget to dbl click on each image to view enlarged!)

Mickey's Mile TOMORROW!

2009-05-29T21:50:00.001-04:00

Come Join Us tomorrow for Mickey's Mile - A Dog Walk for Canine Cancer Research!

(Pic from Mickey's Mile website taken at last year's walk)

Hope to see you there!

Dogs with a Purpose!

2009-05-26T17:49:00.000-04:00

How lucky am I? I got to spend an entire beautiful cool morning with these amazing animals on this beautiful farm.... The dogs are working dogs. They watch over, and protect a very large herd of Llamas (and 1 goose) on over 20 acres of pasture and forrest. It was a purely magical morning with these guys... I really didn't want to leave! Dogs with a purpose, a job, are just so unbelievably content. Have a look... and don't forget, if you click on the images you can see them full sized! Enjoy ~

Pet Palooza & Dog Walk, coming up soon!!!

2009-05-23T06:44:00.000-04:00

Join us on June 13th at Poet's Walk from 11am-4pm for Pet Palooza & Dog Walk to benefit the Partnership for Animals Needing Transition (P.A.N.T.), an all volunteer, animal welfare organization that services animals in Dutchess County.

To pre-register for the walk (advised), please email Jennifer at: jmorris6161@yahoo.com. If you raise $100 online before the Dog Walk & Pet Palooza, you get to register and walk for FREE! (Click here to find out how.) Or, if you purchase your tickets in advance, you will receive a free gift at the door, and you will be automatically entered into the Grand Prize drawing.

There will be vendors (including us!), music, live demonstrations, contests, giveaways and more.

For directions to Poet's Walk, click here.

It's a beautiful place, and a wonderful cause ~ I hope to see many of you there! (Rain Date is June 14th.)

K9 Crazy Rally-O Event

2009-05-07T12:57:00.000-04:00

This was our first Rally-O event -- and all in all, it turned out to be a really great day. I was really moved by the theme of connection, and relationship that was present in the photos. These were all very fortunate dogs -- all with great bonds with their people, and truly moving to witness.

Obama shooting w/Canon!

2009-04-29T17:13:00.000-04:00

As a photographer who shoots with Canon, I really got a kick out of this image!

Clermont's Sheep & Wool Festival - 85F!!!!

2009-04-25T20:46:00.001-04:00

After a very long winter, today was SOOO welcome.... unbelievably beautiful... needed.... appreciated.... just FABULOUS... so... we took a trip to the Sheep and Wool Festival in Clermont, NY - The colors there were so stunning.... between the flowers blooming in their gorgeous gardens, to the potted flowers being sold by vendors... and then of course, the WOOL products! Amazing yarns, again.... color - color - color! On the downside, there were not quite as many "sheep" as we expected, but maybe this is our own ignorance to how these events are organized. There were a few "token" sheep that were used in a sheering demo., a few Alpaca's, and the only other sheep we saw were stuffed, as in, to put in the crib with your baby... All in all, it was a lovely day, with very pretty scenery! Enjoy! (click on images to enlarge)

The only "downside" of the day was that it was too warm to bring any dogs in the car with me... Can't you just imagine what Iggy is saying/yelling here??? Taiho, well, he's just like... "what he said..."

Congratulations to Ziggy Marley & Beth!!!

2009-04-22T15:16:00.000-04:00

The following is an email and photograph I received from my friend Beth, mom to Ziggy Marley. Ziggy is a Pit Bull Terrier, brother to our own, Taiho, from the Animal Farm Foundation, where Beth works. They competed in a Rally-O event this weekend. I was/am so moved by her email that I have to post it here, for everyone to see. She's an amazing mom to Ziggy, who works tirelessly to help this breed, for which Ziggy is an absolutely amazing ambassador!

"My biggest wish before we walked into the ring at our first dog show is that Ziggy and I could bring home a blue ribbon. A blue ribbon to those waiting in the kennel for their forever homes. Ziggy found his forever home. This blue ribbon was earned with the kennel dogs in mind. Those waiting for homes, those who found homes, and for those who never will.

All of these dogs have steered through obstacle courses of their own, and every one of them deserves a blue ribbon in their own right!! Ziggy won this for them, and the kennel is where his ribbon will live."

For more about Beth, check out her website HERE!

What a GREAT Photograph!!!

2009-04-20T18:10:00.000-04:00

Sooo much going on here, I just had to post!

New to Animal Farm!

2009-04-16T18:48:00.000-04:00

(remember to click on each image to enlarge, and see these guys in all their glory!)

Introducing, Mr. Junior Mint! Junior is just the perfect little gentleman..

and Leonard "Lenny" Kasnowski....

Lenny is adorable, I totally fell in love. (Could it be because he reminded me of my Iggy?!) No seriously, if I didn't have 4 dogs already, I might have snuck him home with me..... I don't know if you can see it in these pics, but he tries VERY hard to please... I absolutely love how when he sits, he deliberately pushes his upper body back... can you see it? I'm told he picks up new tricks very quickly, and would be fabulous for Rally-o or other obedience related competitions - I'm certain he could be a Super Star! (Actually, I believe he thinks he already is!)

And then there's little Squiggy! OMG, this little guys is CUTE! You know how some people wish puppies would just stay puppies? Well Squiggy's tiny -- he could not weigh more than 27 pounds.. I just wanted to squeeze him.

If you're interested in Junior, Lenny or Squiggy, you can fill out an application for them HERE!

Maybe It's Maybeline?

2009-04-15T07:44:00.001-04:00

Nature, at it's best:

Pause Dog Boutique's Online Store Has Launched!

2009-04-04T07:29:00.000-04:00

Laura and her assistants Empi (Sheltie) and Ella (Russell Terrier) have been helping us by hanging information about Animal Farm's Feature dogs each month. It's a great store, with an amazing selection of canine accessories of all kinds... NOW you can check them out online - so even if you're not close to the quaint town of Rhinebeck, you can still take advantage of all they have to offer! Check it out here! Iggy and I highly recommend it!

Herbie is this month's Feature Dog!

2009-03-20T20:46:00.000-04:00

I've already put Herbie up on this blog before so to see pics and learn more, please click here and here

I'm really amazed Herbine hasn't been adopted yet, as though I don't like to play favorites, he's truly one of the coolest dogs there! Won't you consider giving this dog who's had a tough start in life the home he deserves? If you think he might be your future "soul dog," please fill out an application.

3rd Annual Dog Walk - Mickey's Mile!!!

2009-03-16T12:44:00.000-04:00

Saturday, May 30th, 2009, will mark the 3rd Annual Dog Walk for Canine Cancer Research! I was so moved when I was approached by Camille to be the official Photographer for this event this year. It's truly the animals, and people who care for them the way Camille does that makes my work so amazing. I feel blessed beyond words.

Camille lost her dog Mickey to a rare form of Canine Cancer a few years ago. We all know how devastating that can be... Camille took her sorrow and channeled that energy into an amazing event that raises much needed funds for Canine Cancer Research in his memory. The money she raises is donated to the Purdue Foundation at Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine for canine cancer research.

The event will be a lot of fun - I hope that many of you will bring your dogs and walk with us for a cure that day! For more information, please visit their website !

MOLLY BROWN HAS GONE HOME!!

2009-03-10T09:52:00.000-04:00

Yay! Molly has found the home she SO deserves!

Printz Photography is on Facebook!

2009-03-03T17:11:00.000-05:00

A fellow photographer, Juliet Harrison recently suggested we start a Facebook page sooooo, VOILA!

Please show us your support and become our FAN!

Animal Farm Foundation Dogs!

2009-02-23T14:18:00.001-05:00

I know I have my monthly feature dog from Animal Farm but I can't resist... I have to post some that I met last week!
(click on images to see full size)

Introducing Charlie:

Can you say CUTE???? He's looking for his tiny stuffed mouse!

Super Sweet Jasmine:

Stunning Kane:

Punky Brewster:

Gentle Tonka:

... and Cute Little Peanut! Check out his High Five!!!

If any of these sweet dogs strike your fancy, fill out an adoption application here!

Greener Photography & Giving Back

2009-02-19T22:52:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I became a member of a non-profit organization called Greener Photography. I was thrilled to find this org, as my husband and I are both huge advocates for the environment and work hard to incorporate sustainable practices into all aspects of our lives.

After joining Greener photography, I found a photographer, Lin Photographer from the West Coast listed as a pet photographer. I was so impressed with the work she does for shelters, and her emphasis on giving back, that I am going to follow her lead and will be doing the same for shelters in my area, as I truly believe you can't give enough to homeless animals! Thank you Lin Photography!

I added a new section to my site entitled Giving Back, which can be found in the Details section.

Giving Back to the Environment...

I have been influenced greatly by my mother, Noriko Yamamoto Prince. She is Japanese, and an artist as well. She and my grandfather taught me the most about respecting Nature and animals and truly understanding the fact that everything~is~connected and that all of the most important lessons we have to learn are found in Nature.

I always consider the consequences of my actions on the environment, and naturally, this includes my daily workflow. I seek out paper with a high post consumer recycled content whenever possible. When choosing vendors, I consider the sustainability of their business practices and whenever possible, I work with people from within my local community. I am careful not to create excessive waste, and work hard to close the loop wherever possible by consuming less, and recycling more.

Giving Back to the Animal Community!

It has always been important to me that whatever I do helps to make the world a better place. I donate my time and services to Animal Farm Foundation, Ulster County SPCA, the Good Dog Foundation and Safe Haven Animal Farm. I photograph their dogs, horses, chickens, goats, sheep, ETC., and have donated my services for their fundraisers.

If you adopt a pet from Animal Farm or UCSPCA and then book a photo session with me, I in turn, will donate 10% of your complete order back to that shelter. I strongly believe in helping out the local animal community and always, giving back.

Giving Back to others who are doing the same... Attention Rescue Groups!

My business was born from the volunteer work I did for the Animal Farm Foundation. If you run a rescue and feel professional photos of your animals would help them to find homes, or you with your mission, please contact me at princeli@optonline.net and I’ll see what I can do to help. The least I can do is provide a free photo session and some high resolution digital images for you to use for your promotional materials and website.

For What YOU can do,
visit Lisa & her huband George's website: www.earthavenonline.com

First Hard Cover Photo Book...

2009-02-10T19:07:00.000-05:00

Here is my first Coffee Table Book, made in Aperture from a session I had with Asa, Magnus & Gianna back in September, 2008 on Magnus and Gianna's 5 month birthday. I kept going back and forth between a white background, and black... and two slightly different styles, they are both hard covers. I decided to go with a black cover, and white for the background in the books, so as not to take away from the photographs. I also think it looks crisp this way. Enjoy...

(to view in full size, double click on the book just like you do on images!)

Get your own - Open publication

Thank you Laura, of Pause Dog Boutique!

2009-02-08T11:59:00.000-05:00

(Photo of Laura and Ella at Poet's Walk!)
Laura at Pause Dog Boutique in Rhinebeck has offered to highlight Animal Farm's Feature Dogs in her store each month! I just delivered the first frame featuring Molly (seen below) to her store yesterday, and I just want to give her a public "thank you" for doing what she can to help out these great dogs! If you haven't yet done so, you should definitely check out her store - she's got a selection of collars, beds and other unique, environmentally friendly accessories and treats that can't be beat!

Meet Molly Brown!!

2009-02-04T16:29:00.000-05:00

** UPDATE -- CONGRATULATIONS TO MOLLY - SHE HAS FOUND A HOME!!! **

Molly's beginning in life was a bit rough and she spent the last year in a shelter with a skin condition.

Molly has been friendly to all of the people she has met at Animal Farm. She greets everyone with a toy in her mouth and a wiggle on her butt!

She enjoys playing with her dog friends and walks nicely on leash and is basic obedience trained. Molly loves attending AFF’s shelter dog classes and is currently working towards her Canine Good Citizen Certification!

I hope I did her justice in these photographs... I mean, just LOOK at her EARS!!!! Enjoy... and remember, if you click on the images, you can view them in full size and see her, in all her glory!

Interested in adopting Molly? Fill out an application HERE or call: 518.398.0017.* Molly's beginning in life was a bit rough and she spent the last year in a shelter with a skin condition.

Molly has been friendly to all of the people she has met at Animal Farm. She greets everyone with a toy in her mouth and a wiggle on her butt!

She enjoys playing with her dog friends and walks nicely on leash and is basic obedience trained. Molly loves attending AFF’s shelter dog classes and is currently working towards her Canine Good Citizen Certification!

I hope I did her justice in these photographs... I mean, just LOOK at her EARS!!!! Enjoy... and remember, if you click on the images, you can view them in full size and see her, in all her glory!

Interested in adopting Molly? Fill out an application HERE or call: 518.398.0017.

Shelter Cats...

2009-01-28T16:59:00.000-05:00

I am helping the animals at the Ulster County SPCA by taking photographs for them as well. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all of the amazing cats, what great personalities! If you're thinking of adopting a kitten.... please think again... there are so many adult cats that have been abused and abandoned that would appreciate your home, even more. Here they are, enjoy.......
(as always, click on images to enlarge.)

Guess Who Was a Winner in the Unexpected Pit Bull's "The Pit Bull Who Loved Me Photo Contest!"

2009-01-25T19:47:00.000-05:00

I was first introduced to the Unexpected Pit Bull when I was given a calendar a little over a year ago from the people at Animal Farm Foundation. I deeply respect how they set out to, (as they say on their website,) "...celebrate these wonderful dogs and give them a positive visual voice." Their calendar is lovely, I really enjoy the photographs and stories. If you don't have one, and you like Pit Bulls, I highly recommend them! You can order one here. A while back I heard they were having a photo contest entitled, "the Pit Bull Who Loved Me." Well, of course I had to enter my Pit Bull mix, Iggy!! Today, I was pleasantly surprised to discover Iggy was chosen as one of the winners! I feel so honored, and Iggy is thrilled too! (He sensed my excitement and immediately started to yodle....) His is the picture on the upper right hand corner here.

Rest in peace, Beautiful Girl....

2009-01-23T10:52:00.001-05:00

I just received an email from Chris, the husband to Meg, an employee at Animal Farm and, best best friend to Jane, informing me that Jane was put to sleep on Wednesday, as her physical problems were causing her great suffering.

Jane was an amazing dog, who carried herself with such grace, and deeply touched everyone she met. Not surprisingly, she chose Meg as her person. When they first met she was a volunteer, and now she's an employee of AFF. Jane recognized Meg was her soul sister, and this post is as much for Meg as it is Jane. I have all the respect in the world for you Meg, Jane was so lucky to have crossed paths with you!

I truly look up to people who dedicate their time and love to these amazing dogs. I realized how much Meg loved Jane when I saw her brought to tears as she opened a Christmas gift from AFF; a coffee mug with Jane's pics on it... She and Chris really wanted to adopt Jane, but they had another female dog, and the two were not compatible. Even though over time Jane became incontinent, Meg and Chris would have still taken her if they could... These are the type of people I love, and the world needs more of!

So on Wednesday, January 21, Meg held Jane's hand as she passed on, out of her broken body, to a better place. I am certain that when Jane is ready, she will return, and she will have the fabulous life she so deserves. I don't think she has any regrets, however... she touched so many people -- and that's what's so important to this fabulous breed. Sacrifice just comes as second nature.

Rest in peace, beautiful girl, and thank you Meg, for all that you do.

With Love,
Lisa

For more on this story, you can see Animal Farm's Tribute to Jane by clicking here

Happy Happy Birthday Iggy, you are my SOUL Dog and I LOVE YOU!!

2009-01-06T07:35:00.000-05:00

Iggy's Story:

My best guess is that Iggy is a Pit Bull, Mastiff and American Bulldog mix, with perhaps a smattering of Dogo Argentino. His parents were picked up by Dog Control off the streets of Manhattan. His dad was euthanized immediately, which unfortunately, is not uncommon for dogs that fall under the category, Pit Bull, or Pit Bull cross … His pregnant mom, China, was spared. Fortunately, after she gave birth to her pups, they were all taken in by a Pit Bull Rescue group.

We first learned about Iggy through the Pit Bull Rescue’s website. After completing their adoption application we waited patiently and watched him grow through the photographs that were updated online every week. Iggy remained our favorite in the pictures, and when the pups were 8 weeks old, all the potential adopters gathered to meet them at the official, “puppy party.” We fell in love with him immediately – the biggest and mushiest of them all, Iggy was even cuter in real life. A week later, he was delivered to our house for a “house check,” we passed, he stayed, and the most amazing human – dog bonds ever, began to form.

Iggy quickly grew to be my full time, and official “co-pilot” and super model extraordinaire... His dashing good looks coupled with and his stoic, kind, tolerant, understanding and comical nature, are what inspired me to become an advocate for Pit Bulls and ultimately, to start a pet photography business.

Iggy loves to play with his humans companions, his 3 dog siblings, Taiho, Zoey and Maya, the cat that raised (brainwashed) him, Lukas, and his other cat friend, Jengo. He works hard on the family farm, protecting the chickens from predators and the field, from…. crows? (well, sometimes he takes his job a little too far!)

Today, January 6th 2009, Iggy turns 4 years old. I want to thank him for everything he’s brought to our lives. For the special “Iggy moments” he shares with us all, where he stands up and hugs us and looks DEEP into our eyes until our souls connect…. For the huge effort he puts into communicating his thoughts at all times, through his countless facial expressions, his yodeling, demand barking, subtle gestures, and kisses…. For the games he plays with his 9 year old human sister and her friends, or for how he patiently stands guard by them when they play outside…. For how he tries to save them when they’re swimming, even if they don’t need saving…. For how he places his hand around his mom’s shoulder and his cheek against hers, when they go out for their daily adventures in the car, and for just plain being Iggy.

Happy Birthday Iggy!

Happy Christmas Pics of Our Gang!

2008-12-26T15:48:00.000-05:00

Maya, aka, Munk, aka, TAZZ.....

Zoe

Ignatius Bodhi Sattva, aka, Iggy

Taiho (aka... baby!)

Herbie in the Snow!

2008-12-23T21:16:00.000-05:00

He really is, such a cool dog! (see original post, below) The people at Animal Farm have really been taking such great care of him, he looks fabulous! Herbie really does love playing in the snow - but notice how as soon as we asked him to sit and stay for a posed shot, he transitioned right into "super model" mode, and struck a pose! For more info, remember to contact the Animal Farm Foundation. (click on images to enlarge)

Introducing Herbert Hoover!

2008-12-20T20:52:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness, Herbie is SUCH a good dog. Like so many of the dogs from Animal Farm, he has not had an easy past. Herbie is recovering from an injury that made it necessary for him to have metal rods placed in his pelvis and back leg. Though still working on his leash manners he is becoming a pro at basic obedience. He plays nicely with his dog friends and enjoys meeting new people.

Herbie loves and needs to work, and thus, is looking for an experienced handler who will continue to do what he loves with him.

The following photographs were taken on a day we were playing with Studio photography, and Herbie was an amazingly patient super model. As you can see, he took this job very seriously, moving his head ever-so-slightly each time he heard my camera shutter, as if to say, "how's this?" -- "or this?" -- "or how about THIS?"

As always, please click on each image to see it enlarged (and look into his soulful eyes!).

If you'd like to learn more about Herbie, please get in touch with the good people over at Animal Farm!

New Gift Certificates!

2008-12-19T21:27:00.001-05:00

(Click Image to enlarge)

As I worked on my Holiday Cards, I got inspired to re-design my gift certificates... I thought I'd share it with you here!

Tis the Season...

2008-12-19T21:09:00.000-05:00

(click image to enlarge)

Introducing Jane!

2008-12-11T07:25:00.000-05:00

(click on photos to enlarge)

Jane is available for adoption at the Animal Farm Foundation. She is a very sweet dog and quite loving with people. She enjoys obedience training and entertaining herself with a ball or toy.

Jane has had a rough life. She was found on the side of the highway in NYC. It appeared she had been hit by a car but no one stopped. Her leg was injured beyond repair and had to be removed. A very determined girl, Jane has not let having three legs keep her down. She loves to ride in the car!

The Doctor believes that poor Jane is incontinent because of the accident, but feels if someone keeps her on a strict elimination schedule, or, give her access to a yard whenever she needs it (as she realizes what is happening and runs outside) it should not be a problem.

As you can see from these pics, Jane LOVES being a SUPER MODEL! Do you have a place in your home and heart for a sweet dog who really needs a break?