Tuesday, September 29, 2009

We're Moving Blogs


This is bitter sweet for me. Blogger was where it all got started. But with growth comes change and so now I have to say "bon voyage" as Pawsitively Pictures Blog will now join forces with Word Press. Here, we will be able to blog bigger and better than ever before and I am so excited about that.
Here are the links to Pawsitively Pictures as well as the Pawsitively Pictures blog.
And of course, since I hate posting without any pictures, check out my new logo on the welcome image of my first word press posting.


Friday, September 25, 2009

A Very Moving Video

Yes, I know what you are thinking. I am a pet photographer so why have I been posting so many videos to my blog. Well, it's because I want to post my images on the new blog. I am in the final phases of blog building. My super talented friend, Lindsey Luxa , is just about finished with the Pawsitively Pictures logo. So we should be up and running by this weekend! I am so excited.
I saw this video on facebook the other night. It really made me sad to see the treatment humans give to others whether its to their own kind or not. Click on this link below, grab a tissue and always remember to treat others the way you would want to be treated. Stray Animals Foundation



Tuesday, September 22, 2009

What We're Up To ~ Harbour Island Pet Photographer

Has it really been almost ten days since I last blogged? That is insane. But I guess that's pretty much how my Fall has been. Super busy with way too much happening all at once. I just returned back from an awesome photography workshop called Learnfest. Four amazingly talented successful women taught 60 photographers how to fine tune and improve their business. And while all the women specialized in children's portrait photography I knew a few of my fellow pet photog friends who couldn't stop raving about all that they took from this workshop. I must agree, it was an amazing learning experience, where my head is still spinning with all that I am planning on doing with Pawsitively Pictures. First on the agenda is the new blog. I have been sweating Wordpress blogs for sometime. So last night I purchased it and began constructing the future of Pawsitively Pictures. It will take me a few days which is killing me because I have two great pet posts from last week. I want to hold off for the new and improved blog. So, rather than just have a post with no images here is something that made me smile. My brother sent me a video of my moms dog eating a hanger. She is a special dog. Ya know, the kind that barks when shes not allowed, eats only if she is fed by hand, and poops only on the finest oriental rugs. Stay tuned for more from Pawsitively Pictures.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Slideshow of Best Buddies Commercial Shoot ~ St. Petersburg Pet Photographer

Last week I had the pleasure of shooting Best Buddies Boutique in downtown St. Pete. They needed some stock images
of their store as well as some yappy hour pictures which will be used for email promos. Not only that, but next month the Travel Channel
will be shooting this store and my pictures will be featured on T.V!!!! Super excited. The models both four legged
and two were wonderful to work with. Special thanks to my ladies Jamie, Tina and Kelly for kicking it. And special loving going
out to my four legged crew Bailey, Killian, and Ernie. I created a sideshow of some of my favorite shots as well as some post commercial shots.
Jamie had contacted me earlier regarding pet photos with her Killian. I figured why not completely immerse her in the dog photography world.
So they ended up coming to both the commercial shoot and stayed after for an on location shoot in downtown St. Pete.
I love it when my days are filled with dog activities. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy the show :)

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Sneak Peeks ~ Killian & Commercial Work ~ South Tampa Pet Photographer



It snuck up on me once again. No more endless days of summer. The yellow buses are buzzing around and Starbucks has started offering their Pumpkin Spice Latte again. Ah yes, September, the beginning of Fall. I feel like this month always flies past without recollection of where it went and what I did in it. So much stuff has been going on, it has been difficult to keep up with everything, especially the blogging. The first of two sneak peeks is a project that has been in the works for sometime now. I did a commercial shoot for a local pet boutique in downtown St. Petersburg. I'm super excited, there were models, both two and four legged, bubbly all around and some really tasty treats. Soon after that, I did a shoot with an adorable beagle named Killian. Full postings to come shortly but for now here are some shots to hopefully hold you over.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Maggie ~ Tampa Pet Photographer






Meet Maggie. The sassy little shih tzu that packs more punch than Mike Tyson. Okay so perhaps that was a dorky analogy but you get what I mean. Looking at her, I would guess she wasn't anything older than 2, however she is closer to 14!!! The girl looks good for her age. Her big brown eyes just melt your heart. And just when you think you can reach over and love her, she bounds off. Her favorite activities include sleeping in her crate where she rests upon nest of blankets and running through the fields of her backyard. It's really funny to watch her run because its more like a bunny hop. Here are some of my favorite shots from the session.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Tito Tuesday ~ The Case Of The Missing Dog




As many are aware, Tito, my 20 lb. shih tzu loves to prey upon lizards. His steadfast obsession is chasing them down a wall to a height where he can swat at them. And yes, while these traits sound more like a cat, I can assure you, Tito is all dog. I have a great set up in my office where my desk, in which I spend most of the daytime hours, overlooks the backyard. While it's not fenced in, we are on a back alley so Tito stays where the lizards are located. Fortunately enough for me that means he is within eye sight of the window. From time to time I will take a five minute break and join in on the hunt. As sadistic as this sounds I take great pride when Tito catches one ( which has only happened twice). He isn't your typical lap dog, but rather an instinctual predator that can catch his own food and survive on his own if anything were to ever happen to me....Or so I like to think.
A few days ago happened to be one of those days where I had to just walk away from my computer. Tito followed as I trudged outside. There, we basked in the glorious sun and began the search. A few moments past and I was back at my computer. I must've been doing a lot of things at once because about an hour later when I sat down to eat my lunch I realized I had no idea where Tito was! I walked through my apartment, covering the rooms in seconds. Panic set in as I didn't see him in any of his usual resting spots. I dashed outside only to see an empty lawn, an empty back alley, and an empty neighbors yard. My heart sank as I had no idea where my dog was. Realizing I would be better off with a box of treats and a pair of flip flops I retreated back inside to my apartment.
Grabbing the box of milk bones I ran into my room to grab my flip flops. It was there, that I found not only my sandals, but also my dog. There, on top of my heaping laundry pile, Tito laid sound asleep. Once I had settled back down to my Zen state I decided that it would make for an excellent Tito Tuesday......and the moral of this Tito Tuesday is....Do your laundry :)

Monday, August 31, 2009

Barclay ~ St. Petersburg Pet Photographer






Barclay, or known to some as Barkles, is the happiest senior citizen I know. At thirteen years old his main goals throughout the day consist of smiling at everyone and getting some loving from anyone that will pet him. Hailing from the streets of Boston, Barclay's summer retreat is located along the coast of Maine. That's where I had the pleasure of photographing him. His teddy bear like features made me want to squeeze him and kiss him rather than photograph him. However, we were able to accomplish both during the on location pet shoot. Here are some of my favorite of Barclay.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

We're Back! ~ Harbour Island Pet Photographer






I honestly can't believe how quick vacation went...But isn't that always the case? The fun never lasts long enough. If Tito could talk, I think he would agree with me, Maine was exceptionally beautiful. We were fortunate enough to experience some of the best weather they've had all summer. With 26 straight days of rain in June, as well as a dreary July, August has brought everyone some much needed sunshine and happiness. I could tell Tito enjoyed the lack of humidity as out first walk of the trip he literally ran a mile with me until I had to take a break and lay in the grass ( yes, pathetically enough, my dog is apparently in better shape than I).
Now we are back, and trying to get back in the swing of things. Up this week will be two new blog postings from dog sessions in Maine as well as the ever famous Tito Tuesday. But first a few shots from our vacation. If you want to check out more pictures of Maine (non dog related) you can check out my other blog, Stephanie A Smith Photography.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Out Of The Office ~ August 19th - August 27th


It's important to love what you do because it makes work, not really feel like working at all. That being said, it's equally important to be able to walk away from work altogether and reflect on that the other enjoyments of life. So with all this in mind, Tito and I will be taking an extended vacation up North. It's time to leave the oppressive heat and head to a much cooler climate. We will be gone from Wednesday, August 19th returning on Thursday, August 27th. I'm looking forward to the time away, but I know I will have a few blog postings when I get back. Pawsitively Pictures has some really exciting news as well as some scheduled puppy shoots when Im gone so stay tuned!

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Cora and Sampson ~ Hyde Park Pet Photographer





I met Cora and Sampson's dad while shooting a wedding together July 25th. Chad Whelan, owner of Digital Wave Productions, was filming the event, while I shot it. We worked side by side for most of the night, after all we are both trying to capture the same moments. It was only when one of us mentioned our dogs that the conversation really got started. Chad has been happily married for 16 years. He and his wife have two beautiful four-legged kids, Cora and Sampson. Cora is a solid 75 lb. American Bulldog who considers herself nothing more than a 16 oz lap dog. Sampson, the older, and slightly wiser of the two was rescued a year earlier than Cora. More like a daddy's boy, he listened and looked only at Chad during the entire shoot. They came to my studio for a pet portrait session. Chad plans to give these images to his wife as an anniversary present (she has no idea the shoot took place so it should be an awesome reaction). The shoot was so much fun and we were able to capture some super cute expressions on both pups. Here are my favorites. P.S. We used my new blue backdrop and I am hearting it so much.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Rusty and PuppyChoo ~ South Tampa Pet Photographer






Meet the adorable dynamic duo, Rusty and Puppychoo. Rusty is a sweet brindled mastiff mix whose main purpose in life is to give love. It doesn't matter if he knows you or not, he just wants a hug. And then there is Puppychoo. The owners aren't too sure what his breed is. As soon as I realized his slight ball obsession and overly happy personality I told them my opinion, border collie/flat coated retriever mix. I had so much fun with these two in my studio. They were really good sports as my air conditioner wasn't cooperating. Have you ever tried summer in Florida with a busted A/C unit while wearing a fur coat? I didn't think so, nor would I encourage it. Here are some of my favorite shots with these two.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Tito Tuesday ~ Shark Week




When I was a kid, I remember one week, every summer, in which I was allowed to watch 3 hours of T.V. per night. That privilege was given to us during shark week. Enticing segments showing raw footage of the latest shark attacks, shark studies, and newest species were enough to keep my brother and I entertained for hours. Now, living in Florida, we get more then just shark week. In fact just last night, Shark week named Florida the number One spot in the world for shark attacks. An astounding 618 unprovoked attacks to date, crushing Australia and the South African coastal attacks by hundreds! The summer here brings longer days, hotter temperatures, and relief that can only be found in the comfort of the Gulf. Almost every afternoon I take Tito down to the end of the island where we can run around and swim in the bay. Its the only way to find refreshment during our oppressive summer. Two weeks ago we had our first encounter with a real shark. A fisherman reeled in a 3 1/2 foot black tip off the beach where we swim. He sighed as he pulled it in and told me this was nothing compared to his near 5 ft nurse shark he brought in during the morning hours. And yes, Tito being the curious fisher dog that he is tried taking a few swats at the shark who could have easily made him a snack. Therefore, in honor of shark week, summers in Florida, and Tito Tuesday I snapped a few shots of Tito wearing a homemade shark fin. Forgive me for the cardboard, sharpie mess but it was all I had to create a fin. No real shark fins were used during this shoot, and no one was eaten either :)
Stay tuned for next weeks adventure of Tito Tuesday and this week make sure to check out Shark Week on the Discovery Channel.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Winner of Pet Portrait Drawing ~ Rohan ~ Tampa Pet Photographer






Meet Rohan (pronounced Row-en), the spunky little Shiba whose pawrents won the drawing for a free portrait session. This little guy is only a few months old but already has the potty training down, as well as the meaning of the words "no" and "sit". Apparently that is the shiba way as owner, Josh, informed me. Shibas are smart, witty, and all personality. I had such a blast with Duncan, Josh, and Rohan. Here are some of my favorites captured from the shoot. And I'm thinking this isn't the last you will see of Sir Rohan.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Pupperware Party at Gone To The Dogs Boutique ~ St. Petersburg Pet Photographer





Good times were had by all on Wednesday, July 22nd. Gone To The Dogs Boutique held their first ever "Pup-erware Party". I had never heard of this term before. Once learning what it consisted of I was stoked to be a part. There was wine, food, chocolate, dogs, and dog vendors. I was one of the dog vendors that introduced my dog photography business, Pawsitively Pictures to everyone. And in edition to explaining what I do and how important it is to capture memories with your pup I held a giveaway for a free puppy portrait session. And the lucky winner.......Rohan and adorable shiba inu pup. Blog soon to come. Here are a few shots of the "Pup-erware Party" and the four legged attendees.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Tito Tuesday ~ St. Petersburg Pet Photographer


I can't believe another week has come and gone, leading us to another Tito Tuesday. This Tuesday I wanted to focus on Tito's tail. This perfect combination of half muscle, half fur is an eight inch extension of his body which tells me alot about his mood. For example, when we go for our morning walks, his tail is held high and proud. Cesar Millan would be disappointed in me as I am allowing Tito to establish dominance (right now I look at it as confidence but I know I need to work on it :) I rarely ever see him drop his tail in submission, in fact only about once a year, the fourth of July to be exact do I see him cower in fear. My favorite time to watch Tito's tail is when he is chasing lizards. We have gecko's all over the backyard so as soon as were outside he is on a mission to hunt them down. I have never seen a tail go so fast in my life. 47 back and forth swishes in 90 seconds to be exact.Who needs A/C when I have my personalized fan that can kick back some serious air. I took these pictures a few days ago just to show how serious Tito is about his lizard hunting and how much I love his little tail. Thanks for reading and stay tuned for next weeks edition of Tito Tuesday.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Dear Barney ~ Hyde Park Pet Photographer






Dearest Barney Boo,
Thank you for being pretty much the most adorable dog ever. I love that your mommie brings you to me to get puppy portraits every six months. It's so much fun watching you grow and become the super cool pup that you are. And my how you've grown since I last saw you. You are still quite a trouble maker, always running around the studio, attempting to eat my extension cords and camera straps but I still love you, especially when you give me one of your many adorable faces. I really couldn't get over how cute you were in your Redskins football jersey. Your dad is going to be so surprised when he sees those pictures. And while your bumble bee costume was a little snug, you made it work for the camera. So Barney I will miss you these next few months but will look forward to our Fall rendezvous when we will do another puppy portrait session.
Much Love,
Stephie Smith
Your Pet Photographer

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Bogey ~ South Tampa Pet Photographer






Meet Bogey, the adorable little shih tzu/maltese mix I had the opportunity to photograph yesterday.This little man is full of energy and love. His main goal, as I found out early on, is to give as many kisses as possible. So he was a little bit confused when I made him sit in a chair all by himself with no one else around. We were able to capture some super cute shots. And even with all that fur and hair you can see what a bundle of love Bogey is.