There are so many sessions I could have started with as my first to write about... but this one lives rent free in my brain.
Mariah — or as I’ve always known her, Mia — and I have known each other since high school, back when we were both Medway Cowboys. I’ve had the absolute joy of watching her do amazing things with her life, while she’s witnessed my own journey — from chasing her around the rugby field with my camera to now, turning those “crazy antics” into my full-time career.
So when she reached out with an awesome idea she wanted to do — not just for herself, but also as a really meaningful gift for her mom — I was 1000% on board immediately.
I can still picture our back-and-forth conversations: sharing inspiration photos, talking strategy (including cat nip, because priorities), brainstorming ways to keep the true stars of the show engaged, and even tossing around ideas like “maybe a wicker basket?” and “what if we use the piano?” (Spoiler: you’ll see that part later.)
One of the best parts of this session? It wasn’t just about photographing Mariah — it was about photographing all of the important pets. Which meant I got to cuddle, pet, and photograph the most adorable little (and not-so-little) friends imaginable. Truly a dream scenario.
The very first thing I did when I walked in was meet each of the shining stars of the household — so it only feels right to do the same for you.
So… introducing…
GIXXER
This precious little bean — while very squishable — was far more interested in keeping an eye on the birds and squirrels outside the window. A true multitasker.
And oh… they absolutely knew they were a model. Constantly striking little poses, doing a casual strut, and soaking up the camera. But the best part? Any time they were with Mia, you could see just how happy and content they were — and that made my heart so, so full.
CHANEL
Black cats will always have a soft spot in my heart, and out of all the shining stars, Chanel took the longest to warm up to me.
That didn’t bother me at all. I was happy to wait and let her come to me in her own time — because those eyes were worth it.
There was something so fairy-tale about her presence, like the kind of black cat who steps out of the shadows and instantly makes you feel safe.
DAFFODIL
Daffodil was one of the first to greet me when I walked through the door — other than Poppy, who immediately welcomed me with a full bundle of love.
Daffodil had just the right mix of sass and princess charm, and the moment she came trotting down the stairs, she stole a piece of my heart. With all that fluff and softness, she was impossible not to snuggle (or at least want to). And being the youngest, her playful energy was so unbelievably adorable.
BUTTERCUP
Buttercup might have been the oldest of all the stars, but she definitely didn’t act like it. She mastered the “what can I do for you?” look — cool, confident, and slightly judging — but once I sat down, waited, and she decided I passed the vibe check, she turned into the sweetest little attention-lover.
She wanted all eyes on her, rolling around on the floor and playing peek-a-boo in the lavender like it was her personal stage. Honestly, I completely understand why the moment Mia and Deb found her, she was immediately coming home with them.
POPPY
The only doggo of the home — and the most adorable little fluffy girl. Truly a star in her own right.
She was energetic, gentle, happy, and so much fun to be around. I was fully obsessed with how soft she was and, even more, with the bond she shares with Mia. You could feel the love between them instantly.
With a home full of such amazing souls, after taking the time to meet and get to know each of them, it was officially time to get to work and capture all of their cuteness — exactly as they are.
Backyard Fun!!
Once we captured all the cozy, inside moments — everyone playing, relaxing, and being their true selves — it was time to head outside and explore their beautiful backyard. And the best part? Everyone got to come along.
Watching the cats wander in and out of the garden was so cute. I loved following them as they explored their little secret spots, popping in and out of the greenery like tiny adventurers.
Meanwhile, Poppy was living her best life — running around the yard and then casually perching in the bushes like the princess she is.
And of course, we couldn’t finish without grabbing a few photos of Mia with her Gixxer, because it just wouldn’t be complete without it.
The cuteness maxed out, time to let the photos speak for themselves.
The Little Details Matter
I can never leave a pet session without capturing the little things — tiny noses, soft paws, and curious eyes. The details that make each pet completely their own.
They’re beautiful in colour, but in black and white, they feel especially soulful — and always end up being some of my favourites.
The Bond Between a Girl and Her Dog
After all the backyard fun, we headed out for a little walk to a spot where Poppy could run free — and honestly, my heart couldn’t handle how cute it was.
Watching Mia and Poppy walk, play, and explore together, it was so clear their bond is everything. You could feel the trust, the love, and the pure joy between them, and yes… it absolutely made my heart so happy.
Mia is clearly Poppy’s number one person, and Poppy is without a doubt her number one adventure pal.
Go ahead — look at these photos and try to tell me otherwise.
Moments Like these
Sessions like this are truly what I live for — real homes, real connections, and pets being exactly who they are. Being invited into spaces like this and trusted to capture these moments is something I’ll never take for granted, and I’m hoping for many more sessions like this in the future.
If this session made you smile, just know it made my heart very, very happy too.
Thanks for being here and sharing this one with me.