Having been in the photography business for more than half a decade, I have only ever learned the absolute basics during my bachelor of Arts studies in Germany many years ago. However, even in the world of the arts we should always strive to continue to learn and grow in our profession. 

This year I decided to invest into a program to further my knowledge. A program that is specifically oriented towards dog photography. 

For the first time ever we managed to get international dog photography master Claudio Piccoli down to our little neck of the woods in sunny South Africa to do a photography workshop. What a privilege and absolute pleasure it was to have had the opportunity to host this event last month.

Claudio Piccoli has been one of my idols in dog photography ever since I started taking up this passion of dog photography. This past year he has been my mentor, motivator and friend and I finally had the opportunity to meet and work with him in this beautiful country I now call home.

There is a special spot in my heart for all animals needing rescue. All of my pets come from shelters. We adopted Toffee from the Garden Route SPCA and later my crazy four legged friend, Sheila from Outdshoorn Dogs in Need (ODIN). And just very recently we had little Oliver join our home. I like to volunteer my time to photograph the animals in the shelter’s care to help them find their forever homes.

This year I decided to do something special for another local rescue close to my heart: Border Collie Rescue SA, who is celebrating their 25th anniversary next year!