St. Louis Photographer » A Journal by Holly McCaig

I got a request from Carrie at the United Way of Greater St. Louis to donate a pet portrait session to their online auction, Give. Bid. Win. Of course! I jumped at it! So much fun to give back. I will admit though – as I told Carrie, I was so afraid that no one would bid on my item. How embarrassing would that be? Luckily, towards the end, there was a bidding war! And, the session went for $340. So happy to be able to give back.

The big winner was none other than this adorable little girl, ZOE!

Isn’t she a doll? Yah, I wanted to put her in my camera bag and take her home with me!

Carrie captured some photos of me shooting – as with all pet sessions, I dress pretty grubby. I get dirty and I think I smelled like peanut butter the rest of the night!

Zoe owns Sue – and Sue, I can’t thank you enough for your bid and donation to the United Way of Greater St. Louis. You are awesome!!!!

This week, as I’m looking around for things for my sweet poochies (Jack & Daisy), I decided this week’s Tuesday Tally is about the mutts. Yeah, I know it’s Wednesday. I never promised I’d do it by the book!

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Skull Collar } Seriously – I LOVE THIS! If it weren’t $70, Daisy would have this. But, my luck, she’d roll in the mud and ruin it. It’s such an awesome take on a skull collar. I love the embossed leather and a little bit ‘o bling! My Dog Collar

I think Jack could look cute in one of these!

Juicy Track Suit } I know, call me an insane dog owner, but I’d love to get this track suit for Daisy. A while back, I photographed little Dora and she had a pink one. But it wasn’t the full suit – still adorable on her.  Seriously…way cute, huh?

Shabby Chic Bed } Now, I saw this and thought two things: 1 – my dogs would NEVER give up their spots in my bed. Why waste my money? 2 – PHOTOGS! How cute would this be for newborn shoots? Calling All Dogs

Kill the Stink } Jack is getting multiple baths a day. Why? Not because I want to do it, but because he manages to roll around in something god-awful smelling outside in the dirt. I mean, we’re talking gag-riffic! So, up we go in the kitchen sink to get a half-bath (mostly neck and head). I saw these and think I want to try them…maybe with so much washing they will help sooth his skin but also help get rid of the smell. Happy Tails Spa

Harness ‘em } OH WOW – this handmade couture for dogs is amazing stuff! Check out this harness! Daisy has to wear a harness because her head is so small that a collar comes right off her neck. Ruff Stuff

Stay Cool } it’s hot out there this summer and you gotta keep the furry kids cool if you’re going to take them out with you! These collapsible bowls are adorable and stylish – yet functional. Itza Dog

Drink Up } Finally, it wouldn’t be summer without a cold brew…right? Now, your dog can even enjoy them! Bowser Beer…I’m trying to find out where to order it! 3 Busy Dogs

I’m working on a project for Stray Rescue of St. Louis’ annual art auction event. My intention is to sell this to anyone as well as donate back to the organization. It’s a great organization, and if you are not from St. Louis, you should read the story of Quentin, the Miracle Dog.

These are a few of the shots I got that I quickly processed this morning. It’s been a very busy week and I have another event to photograph today. I think I need a week’s vacation, don’t you?

I’ll be sure to share more when I get the project complete for this event.

Enjoyed a little bit of pretty, natural light coming in the sliding door this morning. Won’t last long probably!

And, one of the “not right” cat that lives here.

I’m really excited to be getting involved more in giving back to my community. You already know that I support the local charity, Harrison’s Hope (although it’s going VERY national these days!). And, now, I’m giving back to Stray Rescue of St. Louis, they work to save the lives of animals left to the streets of our city. This week, postcards are being sent to them to be included in their adoption packets. I’m giving away complimentary dog photography sessions ($100 value) and 50% of all print proceeds will be donated back to Stray Rescue of St. Louis. Both of my dogs are rescue animals and I can’t imagine it being any other way. Plus, start watching for other things I’ll be contributing to Stray Rescue throughout the year!