Tails & Tales - Capturing My First Dog Adoption Event
Wagging Tails, Candid Frames
Last weekend, I photographed a dog adoption event for a local nonprofit, Sweet Paws Rescue. It was my first time covering this kind of event. I didn’t go in with a big agenda - just my camera, some curiosity, a love for dogs, and a willingness to help out.
I’ve always felt that creative work can make people feel something and help shed light on important stories. It can bring attention to a cause and stir something real in people. Just knowing I could help spread the message, even in a small way, felt really good. These dogs rely on people to speak up for them, and I felt really lucky to be one of those voices - and to be surrounded by others giving their all to help these pups find a forever home.
I love events like this - partly because, let’s be honest, dogs are little angels on earth and I’d happily be around them all day. But also because, as a photographer, it gives me the chance to be fully present. I’m not overthinking lighting or technical stuff - I’m just focused on the energy of the moment. People were in great spirits, the dogs were excited, and it felt good to simply be there, capturing it as it unfolded.
What I took away from the day is that using your skills - whether it’s photography, design, writing, whatever - for something bigger than yourself doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Sometimes it’s just about saying yes and showing up.
If you’ve ever thought about using your creativity to give back, I say go for it. It doesn’t have to be about money or recognition - sometimes doing something just because it matters to you can spark something real and leave you feeling genuinely good.
The motto of Sweet Paws Rescue is “Saving People, One Animal At A Time” and I think that is such a beautiful sentiment. If you’re thinking about adopting or just want to support the cause, check out the Sweet Paws Rescue website here: https://www.sweetpawsrescue.org/.
Cheers to the dogs - and the people who love them!
With Love,
LC