Thanks for dropping by to learn a little more about me and my work. I'm usually the guy behind the camera rather than in front of it, even in a figurative sense which means talking about myself doesn't come naturally. So, after a brief introduction I'll turn things over to my friends, customers and even a few total strangers for some Q&A.

I've been a shutterbug and an animal lover my entire life so it comes naturally to combine photography and animals into a job that I love. I got my start in Nature Photography [link to nature portfolio] which gives me a real advantage over photographers in many areas, especially when it comes to photographing high speed dog sports in dimly illuminated buildings where no flash is permitted.

I offer photography services for any humane dog sport activity as well as private, group and fund-raiser portrait sessions. I also offer one on one as well as group photography tutoring ranging from basic to advanced. You can read more about my services on the bookings page.

Now, on to the fun stuff:

Q: How did you get into Dog Sport Photography?

I was shooting a pet portrait fundraiser and someone asked me if I would cover a Canine Freestyle Federation event. I did, I loved it and the rest is history.

Q: What sets you apart from other photographers in your area of specialty.

Several things really. First, I really and truly love animals, especially dogs. Believe it or not, I've worked with a couple photographers who do it strictly for the money and even one who admits to despising pets of all sorts. I would hope that to be the exception though.

Next, I really understand dogs. I participate in an apprenticeship training program with Laurie Williams of the hit TV show America's Greatest Dog and study dog behavior regularly. This allows me to cover an event without impacting the dogs' performance in the ring. It also allows me to draw out the very best in a pet during a portrait session.

Then, I have the gear and the experience to shoot in some of the most challenging conditions including really dark venues where no flash is allowed and during inclement weather. I regularly work in many locations that have been unable to find a photographer because of the lighting conditions. I'm also capable (and, call me crazy), willing to shoot in the pouring down rain when others are forced to pack it in or lose their equipment to water damage.

Q: Did you just say that the gear makes the photographer.

Nope, not even close. However, there are some situations that call for specialized equipment to work in low light conditions or in inclement weather. That said, having that gear and knowing how to get the best out of it are two different things completely.

Q: Do you have any dogs of your own?

We are currently owned by five dogs and lost one in September of 2008:
Igloo, American Eskimo. Turned 17 in November 2009.
Rusty, Golden mix, Somewhere around 5 or 6 years old.
Haley, Doberman mix, Somewhere around 4 years old.
Missy, Sheltie Mix, Somewhere around 16 years old.
Snowball, American Eskimo, Turned 2 in September 2009.

Sam, Corgi 04 Jan 1993 -- 17 Nov 2008
Read more about him here.

Q: Who's your biggest influence?

Moose Peterson Primarily because of my start in Nature Photography, but also because of his firm belief that "No photograph is worth jeopardizing the welfare of the subject."

Q: What's your first thought when you look through the viewfinder?

Usually, "Wow, it is really dark in here."

Q: What is your opinion on cats?

Cats are cool. We rescued one many years ago and I've done some cat-rescue photography as well as some cat portrait sessions. That said, if you want to see some super cat photos, check out Helmi Flick and Preston Smith Photography.