For most people, black labs would qualify as “big dogs” – but not for this family!

I met Nala & Cooper about a week before their session, at my studio for a meet-and-greet, and that meeting told me juuuust about everything I needed to know about these dogs. Nala the black lab confidently strode in the door and right past me into the rest of my studio; she’s a happy, inquisitive, smart girl who enjoys exploring new territory. Cooper the Newfoundland, on the other hand, wasn’t so sure about the smooth flooring in my studio’s entryway, and it took about 15 minutes (as well as a haphazard trail of dog beds, a doormat and various toys) to convince him that he could successfully make it over the linoleum and onto the not-at-all-slippery carpet in the rest of my studio! From that experience, I knew that working with Cooper would be a rewarding experience – but that he would most likely make me work to make everything come together. And that was true, haha! Once he has solid footing, Cooper is a goofy, lovable guy (in the words of his dad, he’s a big ol’ floof) and yet he’s also very different from his sister. She’s ball-obsessed, while he’d rather work for treats. She knows every trick in the book (roll over, high five, etc – her parents should probably open a dog training business because seriously) whereas he prefers to spend his energy socializing with new people and other dogs. And only one of them has a dedicated bib for all the drool – you guessed it, that’s the Newfie. :)  I had a great time working with both dogs – and I think they enjoyed all the playtime and treats throughout our session too!

This is Nala in her front yard – isn’t she gorgeous?! (And I’ve already threatened to bring future clients to their house, because those bushes & greenery were a dream to work amongst, haha!)

Okay, I couldn’t resist… a running photo of Cooper was too tempting not to share! This boy can move if he wants to – so stay out of his way, haha! Don’t you just want to give him a big fluffy hug?!

Oh, these two… such good dogs!

Bryce and Whit, I’m so glad we finally had the chance to get together! These summertime photos are definitely worth the wait… and I’m looking forward to seeing you both again soon!

Tags: backyard, dogs, labrador, newfoundland, park, pet photography, pets, photography, San Diego, San Diego Dog Photographer, San Diego pet photography