Kindred Spirits Pet Photography

09/02/2026

For National Ginger Cat Appreciation Day, my big ginger boy, Vinnie!

08/29/2026

I had a nice birthday surprise today! One of my entries into the Animal Image Makers competition won the mixed media category. It is a collaged and painted fiberglass dog wearing a hat and jabot sewn by me. Lots of amazing artists in this competition! You can see all the finalists and award winners at https://www.animalimagemakers.com/image-competition.

08/27/2026

I hope you'll enjoy this blog post about Roberta and Mike Lewis and their four generations of Papillons!

Sometimes the people who come into my studio are connected to my own life in ways that make creating their portraits especially meaningful.That is Susan Gertz

08/13/2026

I'm excited to share that my article “Why Portraits Still Matter” is in the Summer 2026 issue of NATIPets, Cincinnati’s magazine for pet parents!

I wrote about something I think about a lot: in a world where we take thousands of phone pictures—and can now generate almost any image we can imagine—why does a real, intentionally created portrait still matter?

For me, it comes down to making something that says: this relationship mattered enough to preserve as art in our home.

You can find the article on page 42 of the Summer 2026 issue. I’d love to know what you think if you read it.

https://www.natipets.com/issues/summer-2026.pdf

08/10/2026

“Hip Hop Hero” is a tribute to Garrison, also known as Lil’ G — Laura’s heart dog, all eight pounds of him — who carried himself with the swagger of someone ten times his size, especially when he was out in the yard kicking dirt at his enemies on the other side of the fence.
This portrait imagines him as he truly saw himself: bold, proud, and larger than life.
I’m honored that this piece was selected as a finalist in the 2026 AIM Creative Showcase & Awards, and even more grateful to have it as a memorial to a little dog who was deeply loved and is dearly missed. ❤️

08/07/2026

Are you thinking "ew, a rat?" Look again.

Those tiny paws gripping the teacup, the tail curling as if it were the handle (with a little nudge in Photoshop), and the delicate whiskers all combine in a precious character study of a beloved pet rat. The soft purple background and the pink nose echo the colors in the floral cup for a harmonious palette. I loved telling this charming little story with a wink of humor. And I'm delighted that the judges at the International Pet Photography Awards enjoyed it too!

Bronze Distinction, 2026 International Pet Photography Awards.

06/05/2026

I’m at Hamilton Pet Grooming Studio today for their anniversary celebration. Clients can sign up for a complimentary portrait session during the event today!

05/24/2026

https://www.instagram.com/p/DYtBpH6ANzE/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

04/27/2026

04/27/2026

A study in light, texture, and quiet attention.