Sallie was about to turn 80. Alfie was an old gentleman, a golden retriever who moved at his own pace and didn’t apologise for it. Together, they were the best clients I’ve had in a long time.
I photograph dog and family portrait sessions across Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire, and Clumber Park is one of my favourite places for relaxed outdoor portraits.
Alfie was adopted by Sallie when he was a stray in Romania, so his age was always unknown – they quickly became inseparable. Alfie had lots of health issues over the years, but he was at Sallie’s side no matter what life threw at them. Sallie was then diagnosed with cancer. After several months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Sallie has amazingly been given the all clear!
I wanted to document the two of them. At their own pace, on a gorgeous evening in Clumber Park.
We took our time. There was no rushing Alfie, and Sallie wouldn’t have had it any other way.
Those are the sessions I think about for weeks afterwards.
Dog sessions, individual portraits, elderly family members — I photograph all of it. My Yorkshire portrait photography page covers the full range of sessions I offer, including what’s included and how to book.
If you’ve got an elderly pet and you’re thinking about booking, please don’t put it off. Alfie was beautiful. He has sadly passed away since the photoshoot. Sallie now has a framed photo of Alfie in her living room that she sees every day; memories she’ll carry with her forever.
Find out more → Portrait photography in Yorkshire & Nottinghamshire
