pet

This weekend Plum Tree Studio Pet Photography was out with tails a-waggin' in Libertyville, Illinois photographying the annual event called "Photo Op with Santa Paws". Santa Paws was at the "Who's Your Puppy" Salon and Spa on Saturday (December 6th) and Sunday (December 7th). The salon offers pet stylists, relaxation at the spa, accesories, toys, collars, and above all else a knowledgable and friendly staff. I was amazed and pleased to see that every guest was personally greeted and given a tour of the facility. Talk about personalized service! Take a look at their web site and stop over -- and make sure you tell them Agnes from Plum Tree Studio sent you (they'll treat you extra special!).

And if you were among the lucky humans and canines who stopped in for a visit, your photos are available online for purchase and your free 5x7 photograph will be available for pick up on December 20th 2008.

Click here or click on any image below to view gallery and purchase prints...

This evening we had a Pet Portrait with Calvin, Janet and "Bucky" from Grayslake. Our gorgeous red headed friend (below) was 70 pounds of pure muscle and a ton of love and energy. He bounded around the studio, exploring everything he could. Sniff sniff, what's that? And that? And ohh ohh that too? What is it?!?!? His young nose was not yet used to the "other dog" smells in this world, and as we all know Plum Tree Studio is frequently visited by four legged buddies ready to smile for their annual portraits. 

As soon as his care givers sat down for their portraits, he promptly joined them on the floor (obviously ready for his evening tummy rub). To get his attention I did my usual "critter sounds" as I like to call them -- a few cat meows, some like arfs, then a bit of the quack quack, and finally closing with a general squeel. Buckey responded really well to the "go to the car?" sentence (since we all love car rides, photographer included!). After a few photos, Bucky realized that no real critters were actually in my throat and thus was bored of me. Overall, it was a great session for Bucky and his adopted parents! Woof Woof Buckey! 

Meet Roxie! She is a 1.5 year old boxer lab mix with a wonderfully inquisitive nature. From the moment she stepped into the studio she was off with nose to sniff every corner and every scent. A little skiddish at first, normal for a pound puppy, she quickly warmed up to a friendly face. We played for a bit on the floor until she got comfortable with me and my camera. The lights didn't bother her at all, as long as there were treats nearby. Nom nom nom she said as she nibbled on a scooby snack. Her human mommy picked her from the dog shelter and you could feel the love Roxie gave back! For a puppy, she was amazingly well behaved. Nothing was broken, knocked over, yellowed or torn. She listened when she got a command, even if a little delayed. Her heart was warm and loving and she was a wonderful little girl to have in the studio. Look forward to having the family back in soon for a family portrait.

Click on any image below to view gallery.

This evening we tried out a new lighting technique....

And also some new editing techniques on the computer...

Please see below...

On this cold and rainy night... we found out where the socks were all dissappearing to...

This evening we had a lovely young couple in the studio. They requested a family portrait and a portrait of just the dogs. Adorable! And lots of energy!

It was such a hot day in the midwest that even the cat was thirsty...

I always knew Albert would come back to visit!

Thank you to the "Gurnee Days" organization for hosting the Canine Frisbee Contest. This gives another meaning to the term "sports photography!"