What a terrific week it's been so far! I'm working on a magazine submission featuring German Shepherds. Last night, I had the opportunity to photograph three wonderful officers and their K-9 partners from the City of Pinellas Park police department. Working in a warehouse during a routine training session, I was able to witness and shoot the dogs as they searched for drugs, caught the "bad guy", and worked in tandem with the officers. Their focus and exuberance for their work is truly impressive. Even more impressive is how readily the dogs go from beyond intimidating to relaxed and submissive with a single voice command. That was very reassuring considering I was only a few feet away during much of the action.

The relationship between officer and K-9 is a true testament to the strength of the bonds that form between humans and dogs. Whether a family pet or a working partner, there's no denying the vital role dogs play in our society.

My thanks to the City of Pinellas Park, the officers, and of course the wonderful dogs for giving me this opportunity!

A total shift in gears.....This past week, I also had great fun shooting the children of the staff at Pinellas Animal Hospital. Having shot most of their pets, it was time to shoot their kids too.

While shooting them, it occured to me how similar a portrait session with a kid is to a portrait sitting with a pet. I found myself using the same toys to "inspire" the kids that I use with dogs (I swear I didn't give any of the kids a milkbone.) Their tolerance for the process, the span of emotions, and the clear message they send when "enough is enough" was nearly identical. My youngest child model even had an "accident' on the backdrop, a common occurrence with puppies.

So, it's been quite a week so far. From kids to K-9s, it's been fun and inspiring. The best part is that it's not over yet. I have two more shoots before the week is done.

It's times like this that I really love what I do!