Dog Portrait Fun in Austin {Austin Texas Pet and Children Portrait Photographer}

norah January 26, 2012

Meet my new "boyfriend" Eddie–he's a rockstar dog (terrier mix) here in Austin and I was lucky enough to meet and photograph him with his owners Rebecca and Daniel. The newlywed couple had just moved to a new house and were still getting settled so we decided to photograph in their neighborhood park area. Let me just say that Eddie and I had an instant bond. There was a great deal of jumping, panting, and other displays of excitement which indicated that he was more than excited to meet me. These types on introductions never get old. Eddie, being the free spirit he is, needed to stay mostly on leash when we were in the park areas, which actually worked out perfectly for the session. The cold temperatures of the day were no match for the efforts of our team as all three of them were complete troopers. This Texas weather seems to change at the drop of a...cowboy hat? I'm learning not to make any final decisions about postponing sessions until I'm actually on location.

We all had a grand time during this session and I loved played around with different posing and locations within the outdoor areas. While I feel that any and all times are excellent for having professional portraits created I honestly feel this was an important time for this young couple to have their portraits created here in Austin with their beloved dog.

Until we meet again, Eddie.

Norah Levine is an Austin based children portrait photographer and pet photographer. She photographs in homes and on location. She also travels to Santa Fe, New Mexico frequently for sessions. Please view her website for more details www.norahlevinephotography.com

"The Value of Home" Choosing a location for your family portraits {Austin, TX and Santa Fe, NM children and pet photographer}

norah January 2, 2012

Choosing a location for your family, children, or pet portraits, is imperative to obtaining the most meaningful and genuine photographs. I specialize in on-location children and pet portrait sessions in Austin, Texas and Santa Fe, New Mexico. By "on location" I mean that I do not currently have a studio wherein clients come to me to have their portrait created on a background using props. Sometimes clients specifically request the look of a seamless background and I am more than happy to accommodate and bring necessary equipment on location. When a client and I discuss options for location, I always suggest photographing at their home. In-home sessions are more personal than studio sessions and offers a more comfortable environment for everyone–the children, pets and adults. As an on-location photographer I have to transport my equipment to the client, which is a lot of work, but it's worth it for me to ensure that I am obtaining genuine imagery and capturing honest portraits.

The house never has to be immaculately clean or perfect in order to have a portrait session there. I can always work around toys, etc.! Your home is where you and your loved ones are most comfortable; where many memories are created and where you share in experiences with your loved ones. As time moves forward and surroundings inevitably change, you can view the photographs and immediately access that exact moment in your family's life. This is powerful.

So when you choose the location for your next portrait session, consider these aspects and ponder the value of having art created in and around your home or at a location that holds strong meaning– wherever that may be at this moment for you.

Here's to a new year filled with hope, growth, laughter, and holding those we love tightly.

This portrait session was so much fun. I have photographed this family before and the boys certainly remembered me! We had a great time playing around both inside their home and outside in their favorite climbing tree. The energy was fantastic and I adore this family.

This Cat's Meow {Pet photographer, Austin, TX}

norah November 2, 2011

I was recently asked to photograph Molly— a stunningly beautiful white cat, for the 2012 Austin Humane Society Alumni Calendar. Molly was adopted from the Austin Humane Society by her owners who absolutely adore her. This cat is not only exquisite to gaze upon and photograph with her gorgeous white coat and her multi-colored eyes, but also has a very sweet demeanor. I photographed Molly at her home in Austin and upon entering the door I immediately noticed the gorgeous dining room table and luscious green painted walls. The light was soft and subtle and I loved the way the green of the background accentuated her greenish-yellow eye. I've been a professional pet photographer for several years now. The opportunities for commissioned photographs of cats have been fewer than dogs for some reason. I love the different challenges that arise when working with cats, as well as having the chance to bond with these unique animals. I adore cats (I have three!) and appreciated being asked to photograph Molly.

I extend much gratitude to the Austin Humane Society for their tremendous support for the animals and the community here in Austin and beyond. Please support THEM by purchasing 2012 calendars!

Fine Artist, Pet and Family Photographer, Author, Educator

Capturing the colors of your life