Meet Your Florida Pet Photographer - Blue Merle Photography
My journey into pet photography started unexpectedly. I never considered a career as a photographer until I purchased my first camera. I quickly found myself captivated by the joy of capturing my own pets—their silly antics, expressive looks, and the way their heads would tilt quizzically when I asked, “Are you being a good boy?” These moments melted my heart and sparked a passion that would shape my future.
What began as a hobby soon turned into a calling. I started volunteering at a pet rescue, where I photographed dogs and cats to help them find loving homes. I witnessed firsthand how a single photo could capture the essence of an animal’s personality and connect them with families who needed the unconditional love that only a pet could provide. This experience solidified my love for pet photography and inspired me to pursue it professionally.
My photographs have been on display at the Cleveland Photo Fest in 2022 and 2023 at the Bostwick Design Art Initiative. Author David Dennis commissioned me to photograph him with his dog for his book (Gameness) jacket. Read more about that on my blog here. Since quality photography is an important part of pet adoption programs, I still volunteer my time to photograph for the rescues and donate to several rescue fundraising events throughout Florida.
Meet My Puppy Luv, Rascal
Rascal came into my life by a twist of fate. Having grown up with an Old English Sheepdog (OES), I was determined to rescue one. I kept an alert with local shelters and rescues, and nearly a year later, I got a call from a shelter in Lakeland, Florida, about an available OES. With only an hour to spare before they had to release the dog, I jumped in the car with my neighbor, MaryJane, and sped to Lakeland—arriving just in time. When the shelter brought Rascal out, it was clear they had confused an OES for an Australian Shepherd-Border Collie mix!
Despite the mix-up, I instantly fell in love with Rascal, and he’s been by my side ever since. Now 12 years old, Rascal has become an irreplaceable part of my life.
Rascal’s loyalty has shown itself in incredible ways over the years. One night, he alerted our neighbor, the Chief of Police, to someone breaking into his truck. The police even offered Rascal a ride-along as a thank you! During a house fire a few years ago, Rascal miraculously herded our kitty, Zoe, back to safety when I thought I had lost them both. Zoe lived another seven years by his side, thanks to his heroics. And on one terrifying New Year's Eve, Rascal bravely defended me from a coyote attack, nearly sacrificing his life to keep me safe. After a long recovery, he bounced back and remains my protector and constant companion.
Beyond his brave feats, Rascal is full of fun quirks and lovable habits. Fetch is his favorite game, and his playful nature is clear when he tries to steal my spot on the couch with a clever trick. Raised by cats, he hilariously perches on the back of the sofa like they do, despite his 70-pound frame. His weekly treat? Grilled pork chops from his best buddy, George, down the street.
I even renamed my photography business, Blue Merle Photography, in his honor, as Rascal's beautiful blue merle coat inspired the name. Every day with Rascal is an adventure, filled with love, belly rubs, and the kind of companionship only he can bring.
We recently added Teyla, a beautiful kitty, to our family. She’s adjusting to her new life with Rascal and me.
Blue Merle Photography
My hobby quickly turned into a professional pet photography business where I am blessed to meet many amazing pets and their people. I not only get to take images that I know every pet parent will enjoy for many years, but I also get to know some of the coolest people. Handing my clients their custom albums or hanging their wall art brings me incredible joy.
Documenting Your Story
Whether you’re looking for a way to celebrate your pet’s unique personality, commemorate a special occasion, or simply preserve the everyday moments that make your pet so dear to you, Blue Merle Photography is here to help.
What’s your story? How did you and your pet find each other? What makes your bond so special? I would love to hear about this so that I can curate images that reflect your story. Let’s create something special together. Please contact me today to schedule your session.
Appreciation from Blue Merle Clients