Dog Photography | It’s how we roll | Barkjour part II

Dog Photography | It’s how we roll | Barkjour part II

It’s how dog photographers roll

Picture this, you live in small hilltop town in the south of France. Nothing overly exciting has probably happened there since WWII. You’re firing up your BBQ on a perfectly lovely September evening, when suddenly something catches your ear. You cock your head in an effort to make out what exactly you are hearing, a cacophony of sounds, strange barking and yipping, whinnying, meowing and – ducks? “What the…”  you wonder. You go to the window and look out, scanning the cobblestone street for a clue.

Oh there’s a clue all right, the street is overrun with men and women in dusty jeans and t-shirts, many with brightly coloured hair! All are lugging what appears to be masses of camera gear – and dogs – a dozen, maybe more – dogs that you’ve never seen before. There are dogs up on ledges, people crawling around on the ground, dogs running and jumping, people laughing and making the oddest collection of noises.

Bonsoir! That would be us! The Barka-family. Dog photographers one and all.

Day two of shooting

The Barkjour group was in Castillon du Gard, a hill top town with cobblestone streets, weathered doors and stone walls. It was one of my favourite locations and took me back to the times I lived in Italy and Germany.

First up was the schmooshy-faced, fabulous, Boxer-Cane Corso cross named Zoumba. He suited his kooky name and was serious and goofy all at the same time. The colours and textures in the streets were glorious and perfect for framing our subjects.

After Zoumba, we tracked down Marley the Aussie Shepherd (favourite breed of Charlotte Reeves who was shooting with us on this occassion) and headed to a narrow alley for some action. He had a blast roaring up and down the alley and, in typical fashion, we were all rolling around on the dusty stones, jockeying for the best vantage point to capture this gorgeous athlete. I loved his little face, but he was very nervous of the camera up close. But after a little conditioning I did manage to capture one close up of his sweet face.

The Jack Attack

Finally, I had to work with the pack of Jack Russell Terriers in my sights. I think I got an endorphin rush when I saw them LOL and it did make me miss my little guys (although I don’t think they missed me at all!). They were a gorgeous Jack Pack, adults and pups as well. I didn’t manage to sort out their names, but I think the pup on the manhole cover is definitely a Jacques (hee hee). Thanks to Wendy Fox Hudnall of Doggie Tales Photography for taking the sweet photo of me with the Jack Daddy!

This location was the perfect end to day two – a mind-numbingly full day of learning. We were able to put concepts discussed to good use and get our “yaya”s out in the process. Cue my invisible wagging tail.

It’s like falling off a horse

Which fortunately I did NOT do. I haven’t ridden in several years, but threw caution to the wind. Thursday we had the afternoon off, so what do a bunch of dog photographers do? Spend time with different four-leggeds of course! We set a course for The Camargue region on the coast and spent a couple of fabulous hours horseback riding. We rode on one of the oldest breeds of horses in the world Camargue horses. Through salt flats, water and on the beach… all the while the pink flamingos were just wading out of reach of my iPhone. It was so beautiful and a great way to chill out.

After the ride, we peeled ourselves out of our saddles and piled back into the cars. We set a course for Nîmes where we hobbled about looking for a bite to eat. (okay, it’s quite possible that I was the only one hobbling.) The town centre was ancient and I would love to go back and explore Nîmes more, so much Roman influence.

After pizza we stalked the streets looking to satisfy those with a sweet-tooth (Note: while I’m not a sweets person, I do tend to enjoy the hunt and, am easily tempted by the lure of pistachio gelato!).

As you can see, when you hook up a bunch of like-minded, passionate, kooky pet photographers you are likely going to release more than a few inner beasts… because that’s how we roll! 

Stay tuned for the next instalment of where we head to the ancient aqueduct Pont du Gard for Day 3 of shooting and Day 4 in the Chateau!

If you missed the first installment of my “out of this world” pet photography retreat, please click here!

p.s. thanks to Charlotte Reeves and Cat Race for a couple of the fun Nîmes iPhone images! And MANY thanks to Charlotte Reeves for the behind the scenes image of me and Zoumba!

Barkjour | Indigo Pet Photography goes to les chiens | Part 1

Barkjour | Indigo Pet Photography goes to les chiens | Part 1

Indigo Pet Photography goes to “les chiens” at Barkjour

Last weekend was Thanksgiving and I spent a fair amount of time reflecting on how fortunate I am. So grateful to not have to contend with floods, fires, food and water shortages and evacuation. Blessed to have my family and friends around me for love and encouragement. Over the moon to have the support of the local wineries with the Winery Dogs of Ontario Calendar. And frankly, insanely fortunate to have the opportunity to attend Barkjour last month in France.

Back in August, I made a split second decision to invest heavily in myself and my future. I applied for and was accepted to join Barkjour, a pet photography retreat taking place the first week of September in France – billed as an out-of-this-world experience. Goosebumps!

Wheels up

After a flurry of activity to prepare, on September 3rd I left Toronto and my comfort zone. I boarded my flight to Marseilles and was off to my adventure in the south of France. Destination… Chateau St. Maximin, a 12th century chateau on the outskirts of Uzès in The Languedoc region. Our very own chateau. Yeah, I did just say that 🙂

Planes, trains and automobiles

Long delays and many hours later, I landed in Marseilles. I’d made arrangements to connect with Mareike, from Germany, at the airport and catch the train with her to Nîmes. I was SO relieved that she waited for my flight because my brain was numb and the whole train situation was more than a little confusing. Conquering it together made it at least enjoyable. Eventually we got to the train station and finally we were on our way. Most importantly though, we managed to find ourselves in a compartment with our first “chien” of the adventure. Paco was clearly a seasoned train traveller and was eager to show us the ropes. Mareike wasted no time in chatting him up. Things were quickly going to les chiens.

When we arrived in Nîmes, we connected via a flurry of facebook messages with Bridget and Luke from the UK. Luke had rented a car and we all chipped in for the trip to the chateau. We made a quick stop for wine on the way (as one does) and in short order were pulling in through the massive iron gates to our paradise, Chateau St. Maximin.

There was such an exciting wealth of talent and personalities on this adventure that it was a little overwhelming at the start! The first night was spent getting to know each other, exploring the the chateau, and sipping wine. Of course, the evening would not have been complete without an impromptu sunset session on the rooftop with Poppy, more on Princess Poppy in a coming blog. 

Let the games begin: Day one

Up early and downstairs by 7:30 for what can only be described as a breakFEAST. I can’t go into it because just the thought of the French yogurt make me deliriously hungry. After breakfast we hunkered down to an intense day of learning – Nicole Begley, Charlotte Reeves and Kaylee Greer put us through the paces for hours (although we did break for a spectacular lunch!). At 5:30 pm we packed up and piled into cars to head to Domaine Malaïgue for our first photo session. Living here in Niagara I offer exclusive vineyard sessions to my clients, but oh la la, to shoot in a French vineyard? C’est fantastique.

We had a wonderful range of dogs to photograph, from Bell the stately Dogue de Bordeaux to little Ricky and his lanky and scruffy buddy, John Boy. Ricky had clearly had a rough go of it in his short life, but his adoptive family shower with love to make up for lost time and John Boy watches over him.

Looping the Shetland Sheepdog performed brilliantly through the vines, occasionally leaping over of the wall of bodies lying in his way – cameras firing like machine gun bursts. And handsome Erik, at first I thought Erik was a husky corgi mix, but no, he’s actually a Swedish Vallhund! Erik just looked plain adorable everywhere he went and was as easy going as you please.

After a dirty and dusty evening of shooting we raced back to the chateau, cleaned ourselves up and were treated to a truly mouthwatering dinner – the star being salt crusted leg of lamb, prepared by Chef Theo (yes, we had our own awesome chef too, drool!). After that and a “wee” glass of wine, I pretty much fell into bed and a deep and satisfied coma. 

Stay tuned for Part 2: Where we invade the hilltop town of Castillon du Gard, plus our afternoon off – horseback riding in the Carmargue!

Read the lead-up to the Barkjour blog here ›

Paying it forward: Brutus’ story

Paying it forward: Brutus’ story

Paying it forward – for Brutus

This is not something I normally do, but every once in a while something really smacks me in the face and I think, yup, this here is an opportunity to pay it forward. You see, once upon I time, I was stretched pretty thin financially and my heart dog Samantha needed emergency surgery. I had absolutely no idea how on earth I would be able to afford the surgery but somehow the universe conspired to come to my aid. My vet took her without asking for payment up front and a couple of people came to my assistance with lifeline loans. I couldn’t have done it without their help and I’m eternally grateful.

But this isn’t about me, it’s about gorgeous Brutus! A big, lovable galoot of a Mastiff. Brutus was adopted just about a week ago from sketchy circumstances by one of the young guys who manages the farm that I live on. He and his wife were in search of a low energy, adorable pooch that would be low maintenance and grow with their young family. They went to see him and were unsettled by how thin he was and by what appeared to be an untreated eye infection.

 

mmmmm treats
Brutus sitting so pretty
His charms in combination with his situation made their decision a no-brainer. They wanted to get him home, love him up, put some weight on him and get that eye taken care of. Unfortunately, what they quickly discovered is that their newest family member has a serious eye condition called Entropion, where the eye lid curls in. Worse still, in Brutus’ case, the vet said that it had obviously been left untreated for several months because of the terrible condition of his eye – his cornea has ulcerated.

I can’t imagine the pain this gentle giant has experienced in recent months. But his new family is committed to him. The specialty surgeries ahead and medicines will run into the several thousands. On top of that, his right eye is showing signs of deterioration as well.

First things first, his impending surgery to repair (or possibly remove) his eye is currently quoted at $3300. October 6th is his specialist consultation. Being the ipso facto “dog lady” in these parts, Scott called me to ask if I had any ideas for how they might navigate the waters and my first thought was to start a Go Fund Me campaign. Sarah got that set up immediately and people have shown extreme kindness and generosity by donating to Brutus’ cause already.

 

Belly rubs are the best for Brutus

Asking a “Mastiff” favour for Brutus

I’m a firm believer in “paying it forward” so I went to meet Brutus and took some images that I hope will help to get his story out there. He is a ridiculously adorable pooch and he is clearly in love with his new family. He’s already put on weight and I know that with help he will get through this and live a long and happy life full of belly rubs. The universe has a way working magic when we most need it and I’m hoping that it will help Brutus to get all the medical attention he needs.

If you would like to help Brutus, please consider donating to his Go Fund Me campaign. Even a $5 donation can make a world of difference to a daunting bottom line. (See it’s not really that big of a favour after all!) If you already have donated, there is a special place in heaven waiting for you!

Thanks for reading this and please feel free to share the blog or directly from the Go Fund Me campaign to help raise awareness. Brutus says thank you from the bottom of his furry little heart. Yes really, that’s what the slobbery bubbles are all about. (well that, or the liver treats in my pocket!)

Brutus wants to say thank you
Barkjour: An out of this world pet photography adventure

Barkjour: An out of this world pet photography adventure

This is me, on fire

Ever since I was 6 years old I knew I wanted to work with animals in some way, shape or form. And yes, it would appear that I am a little slow, as it has taken me a lifetime to finally find a way to make that happen. This pet photography adventure was originally greeted by many as a lark and a hobby. Pfft I say, I’m happier than I’ve ever been and I’m going to live my wildest dreams.

My passion for pet photography gets stronger with each dog or cat I photograph… so too does my desire to hone my craft.

The most important investment you can make is in yourself.” – Warren Buffet

A few months ago, I had desperately wanted to apply for a pet photography retreat I learned of through a group on Facebook. It wasn’t cheap though and I couldn’t see myself raising the money. One day I noticed a post in a facebook group I belong to: Only one space left. The retreat was only 5 weeks away. Shortly after, I saw a quote by Warren Buffet, “the most important investment you can make is in yourself”. It was an “aha” moment. I decided it was time to invest in myself, big time.

Barkjour: An out of this world pet photography adventure

I applied for and was accepted to join a group of phenomenal international pet photographers in the south of France. Yes the location is exciting, but the small number of participants – just 14 – from Australia, New Zealand, England, Germany and the US appealed. The caliber of the Instructors leading the retreat was the deciding factor for me. Kaylee Greer of Dog Breath Photography. Charlotte Reeves of Charlotte Reeves Photography. Nicole Begley (I had already done one workshop with Nicole last fall) from Nicole Begley Photography. A fire ignited inside! I didn’t have a lot of time to drum up the money, but it was clearly meant to be… because I succeeded.

The first week of September, I will be soaking up 5 glorious days of learning, inspiration, hands on photography, and likely a glass of wine or two talking “shop” at night at our chateau.

Stay tuned, as I run like I’m on fire towards my wildest dreams! Au revoir!

(here are links to all of the parts of the story:  Part I – when I go to “les chiens”  | Part II – How pet photographers roll  |  Part III – Out of this world, every single day

Winery Dogs of Ontario Calendar

Winery Dogs of Ontario Calendar

My “Winery Dogs of Ontario” 2018 calendar just swooshed to the printer.

OH. MY. DOG. This has been a labour of love! A test of my stick-to-itiveness and a barometer for my level of risk aversion. This celebration of dogs in wine country has been simmering on the back burner for more than ten years, sometimes the flame even went out. I was never quite ready to take the leap. But when I launched my pet photography business in 2014, the winery dogs calendar idea naturally came percolating back up to the surface, and there it has been, bubbling away ever since.

Why a winery dogs calendar? Three reasons:

  1. I adore spending time with fur-kids. It soothes my (occasionally) savage soul.
  2. I love wine and live in the heart of Niagara’s wine country.
  3. Ontario is the last significant wine region in the new world (that I’m aware of) that is without a calendar that celebrates their magnificent canine mascots! (I know! crazy eh?)

I have to admit that my process was painfully slow – I suspect I was still dancing the edge of a knife as to whether I should do it or not. It could be hugely successful! But it could also be an expensive flop. However, one recent January morning, I woke up and thought to myself, good god woman! get your butt in gear and get this done before someone scoops you.

Full steam ahead

Time to map out my path to calendar completion. I lined up a shooting schedule to photography dogs for months I needed, determined the calendar size, designed the layout, and got quotes in. I also planned a launch/preview event to gauge interest. At the event, I pre-sold enough calendars to believe that there is actually a big old net at the bottom of the cliff I just launched myself off. (Note: all of this was accomplished with a whole lot of help from my friends, especially the launching off cliff part.)

It’s not about getting a chance… it’s about taking a chance.

Proofs will be ready for review this coming week – until then I’m on pins and needles! Excited? (um, yes… that is a serious understatement.) Suffice it to say that today marks a significant milestone in my life.

That being said, no time to stop and smell the roses, I need to start shooting for the 2019 calendar! My goal is to feature dogs from every wine region in Ontario, Niagara on the Lake, Prince Edward Country, Pelee Island, Collingwood… if you know a winery dog that should be included, please let me know!

Details, details:

The calendars are 12″x12″ and their gorgeous, glossy pages feature stunning portraits showcasing winery dogs from Niagara’s Twenty Valley wine region. As always, rescue is near and dear to my heart and a portion of the sales will go to Beamsville 4Paw Rescue and Jack Russell Terrier Rescue Ontario (JRTRO).

Currently the 2018 calendars will be available for sale at the following wineries in mid-late May:

**********

EDITED JUNE 13, 2017: the calendar is also now available at the following locations

**********

A big thank you goes out to Louise Engle and Meg McGrath for fanning the flames, consistently. Laurie Nadeau for all your help at the event and Carole Tothe-Gurgol of Tothe Photography for the event imagery. And to all the wineries and individuals who believed in this project enough to support it and me. I couldn’t have done it without you. You are all awesome!