Photography of George's dog Charlie a Rough Collie
In 2025 I said good bye to my pet dog Chilli after more than fifteen years together. One of the things I regret the most was not getting more photos taken of us together doing the things we enjoyed.
So I decided to create a new dog photography service to help other dog owners not make the same mistake that I did.
Yes everyone has lots of photos of their dog, but nearly every person I speak to doesn’t really have photos with their dog.
I got to meet George and Charlie, his nine year old Rough Collie, via the Epping local Facebook Group after I reached out to the community for volunteers to have test photos taken with their pet.
George was one of the first to contact me & it was an absolute pleasure meeting him, one of the good humans in this world, humble & fully devoted to his wife as well as their ‘child’ Charlie.
I could relate to George’s story as I don’t have children of my own, but having a pet (in my case Chilli) went some way to filling that void.
For me I found that having a dog like Chilli provided love, companionship and emotional support without the pressures of parenting.
Over the years Chilli helped me deal with loneliness and mental health challenges without the responsibility that comes with raising a child.
What has owning a Rough Collie like Charlie meant to George's life?
George and his wife fell in love with the Rough Collie breed many years ago after attending a local dog show in Sydney. As they walked through the event, they were captivated by the breed’s striking appearance, gentle nature, and intelligence.
What stood out even more was the humble and passionate way the breeders spoke about their dogs, demonstrating a deep love and dedication to the breed. Unlike more common breeds, the Rough Collie had an air of quiet elegance and a unique charm that immediately drew them in. From that moment on, they knew this extraordinary breed would hold a special place in their hearts.
As you will see in the photos, Charlie will remind many people of the famous dog Lassie featured in the 1938 short story by Eric Knight that later spawned novels, the tv show and many movies.
A dog can bring unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of family. They fill a home with warmth, joy, and purpose, creating daily routines and shared responsibilities that strengthen a couple’s bond. A dog offers emotional support during difficult times, providing comfort and a deep, loving connection. Their playful energy brings laughter, while their loyalty creates a profound sense of belonging.
Charlie enjoys an amazing life going on all kinds of adventures, she has even been to the snow but also has plenty of quiet evenings on the couch, has helped to raise funds for charity and has even learnt lots of vocabulary as well as a few tricks.
Black and white photos of George with his Rough Collie named Charlie
Charlie is so photogenic from her long snout, beautiful coat, graceful walk and adorable eyes. Her luxurious double coat, with its flowing mane and rich colour variations, catches the light beautifully, creating depth and texture in photographs with her different shades of caramel and white. Her intelligent, almond-shaped eyes radiate warmth and emotion which made it easy to create soulful portraits that capture her gentle and loyal nature.
She has an elegant build and naturally poised stance, which exudes a regal yet approachable charm, perfect for both posed and candid shots.
After speaking with George about all the things that Charlie has learnt over the years, we tried to take photos of some of the memorable things like her high five action, standing up on George’s shoulders, her paw hold, getting close in for a big hug and catching the frisbee.
Charlie was incredibly patient and calm, standing by my side without a hint of restlessness or complaint. Even when George stepped away to get her some water, she remained composed—not anxious, but attentively watching for his return. Her deep bond with him was unmistakable, evident in the quiet confidence and trust she displayed.
George has taken lots of photos with his mobile phone when they have been on their adventures, always getting an angle that includes his wife and Charlie, but by his own admission it can be difficult at times, but he has taken some awesome selfies nonetheless.
Getting a photographer or a 3rd person to take photos can compliment what you capture with your phone, you get to see a different perspective and the opportunity to be in the photos with your dog in a more natural state, maybe doing something, playing etc. It shouldn’t replace what you take, but add to it.
What did George think of the photos I took?
“The photos are beautiful. I think the paw resting on my hand is a lovely shot, it reminds me of how she’s been so good at give hand shakes with both paws and the years that we struggled to get her skin allergy under control.
The photo session was good, it felt easygoing and without pressure. I thought the conversation we had about our fur babies could be tied into the ideas for composition” George
In memory of Chilli
This photography service was created in 2025 in memory of Chilli. Chilli was a rescue dog who spent just over fifteen years with me becoming my companion, best friend and someone I will miss dearly.
He enjoyed a great life and was a constant in my life through thick and thin, lived in many different places and even spent some time on the road experiencing van life. A Maltese Shih Tzu who looked like a teddy bear when his fur was long and a Dalmation when he was clipped short.
He is the reason that I now provide pet photography for dogs in Sydney either at your home, a local park or your chosen location. For senior pets I also offer end of life pet photography sessions as I will always regret not getting more photos taken with him and I together.
