Every once in a while I step away from weddings and photograph something that really speaks to my heart and soul. Something that lights my creativity on fire and actually allows me to come back to my Brides with a refreshed and focused heart.

One of my Grooms (be on the look out! Next month he’s getting married to the girl of his dreams) asked me a couple weeks ago if I ever photograph dogs because the Apple Creek K9’s need some photos. If you’re not in the Northeast Ohio area, you may not have heard about the shooting of a Canton City K9 that resulted in the dogs death. If you know me at, the story really touched my heart – I am one of the biggest dog lovers you’ll ever meet! Any ways – when Matt asked me about these photos, there was ZERO hesitation in giving him a yes answer! I couldn’t wait photograph two beautiful K9’s for a Police Department.

We met this past Monday night at OARDC in Wooster for their very first photoshoot. Both handsome boys are German Shepherds. Axel is an eighteen month old and Jager is four years old. Axel’s handler is the Chief of Police for Apple Creek, while Jager’s handler is also a full time Firefighter. Jager not only gets to catch bad guys, but he also gets to hang out at the firehouse with his dad and buddies! The third Shepherd you’re going to see is an old man. Diesel is a retired K9 after almost a decade of service who also belongs to the Chief! He now lounges around the house with his sister (who is a golden retriever) and watches his brother Axel suit up for his old job.

We finished the evening with some bite sleeve training. Want to talk about incredible, that was so awesome to watch. The bite sleeve hid behind a couple backs until we were ready for the photos because the dogs KNOW what’s coming. They get so excited to latch on! And then how the dogs know the commands to let go. Lots of dedication and training on the handlers part to have a dog that well trained! Truly incredible to watch that happen!

I had an absolute BLAST with these three boys and their dads! Thank you Apple Creek Police Department for allowing me to take these photos! God Bless and stay safe!!!