Some sessions stay with you long after you pack up your camera, and my time with River and Miley was definitely one of them. From the moment their humans first reached out, I knew these two Australian Cattle Dogs were going to make for a heartfelt, personality-filled session.

River, at about 8.5 years old, was exactly as her family described her—sweet, calm, and most comfortable in the safety of her own home. She doesn’t love leaving the house, so keeping the session at their residence was the perfect choice. Once she took a little time to warm up, River settled into the session beautifully. Her soft expressions, her cautious but trusting glances, and her gentle presence created some of the most tender images from the day.

Miley, around 7 years old, brought a completely different energy to the session—in the best way. She was friendly from the moment I stepped inside, happy to greet me with wide eyes, wagging tail, and a whole lot of enthusiasm. Miley’s playful confidence added a lively rhythm to the day, and she provided no shortage of big smiles and silly moments.

We also captured some portraits with their humans as a family. Photographing River and Miley in their home environment was the perfect way to bring out their authentic personalities. River felt safe and relaxed, Miley thrived with attention, and together they created a session full of warmth, humor, and heart.