Barb Hays | Windhound Photography-Hampton Roads Dog and Pet Photography

The Tilly Project—End of Life Pet Photography

I was chatting with a theater director a couple months back—I often do dress-rehearsal images for local groups to help them promote their plays—and we ended up talking about pet photography. (No surprise there.) Relaying that nearly all of my recent sessions had been end-of-life tributes for elderly or desperately ill pets, he asked if …

Barb Hays, Windhound Photographer, poses on a bench with her poodle, Blaze, at the Norfolk Botanical Garden.

Community Events, Helpful tips

Have a case of the wintertime blues?

by Barb Hayson February 9, 2023February 10, 2023

If you're anything like me, finding enough physical and mental stimulation for dogs can be a struggle, especially during the winter months. Here's a few ideas and adventures to keep your bestie busy and prevent you from pulling your hair out. Visit the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. Did you know that the Garden allows dogs every …

Two dogs on the beach in Norfolk, Virginia

Behavior, Formal Pet Portraits, Image Editing, Photo Session

My dog won’t sit still!

by Barb Hayson August 25, 2022August 25, 2022

I hear it quite often: “I’d love to get professional photos of my dog, but I don’t think it’s possible. He’s too hyper, too shy, fearful of strangers, doesn’t know basic commands, is afraid of cameras, never sits still…etc.” Everyone worries how their pup will perform during a photo session. It’s a common concern regardless …

Behavior, Helpful tips, Pet Safety

New Puppy! Let’s Talk About Socialization

by Barb Hayson July 7, 2022July 7, 2022

I recently got a puppy! His name is Blaze (Blaze Augustus—because all dogs need majestic names!) and he's an adorably fuzzy standard poodle. I've fostered a number of puppies in the past, but the youngest dog I've ever adopted was 6 months old. I'm a conscientious dog-mom and want to make my new friend be …

Community Events, Helpful tips

Calling All Aspiring Photographers

by Barb Hayson June 3, 2022June 3, 2022

Interested in learning how to take better photos but don't know where to start? Would you like to go on some photo adventures but you really don't want to go alone? Did you know there's an amazing photography club right here in Hampton Roads? I want to give a shout out to the amazing local …

A spaniel make a cute face during her studio portrait session.

Formal Pet Portraits, Photo Session, Studio Pet Portaits

Now Offering Studio Images

by Barb Hayson May 10, 2022May 10, 2022

While adventure is the name of the game for many pups, it's not always the the best fit for every dog—or their feline friends. Though you'd love to have professional images of your best pal, outdoor photography just isn't a good option because your dog (or kitty) isn't comfortable outside or in new environments. Perhaps …

An image box that holds 5 x 7 prints and USB file of your images

Artwork and Products, Pet Photography Business, Photo Session

New Product Offering

by Barb Hayson May 4, 2022May 4, 2022

I found a new product that will meet the needs of clients who are primarily seeking digital files as well as my firm belief that no image is really complete until it's printed. I absolutely love it and it's the *perfect* size for a coffee table. Available in walnut or maple wood, it's a handmade …

Pet safety tips, a corgi dog plays tug with the pet photographer

Helpful tips, Pet Safety

It’s Springtime! Are you and your pets ready?

by Barb Hayson March 25, 2022March 25, 2022

The temps are warming, the first flowers of the springtime season are making an appearance and after a cold winter, getting outside again feels like a new beginning. Now is a good time to get your pups ready for outdoor adventures, travel, or simply lazing around in the springtime sunshine. Let’s make sure it’s a …

Backlighting on a poodle dog at York River in Williamsburg VA

Helpful tips, Photo Session

Pet Photo Tip—Try backlighting in your images

by Barb Hayson January 25, 2022January 25, 2022

I always like to share some tips and tricks to help you improve your own photography, whether you're simply taking some cell phone shots, or working hard to master that fancy new camera you got for Christmas. This technique can be a little tricky, but practice is the key to success. —Thank goodness for the digital …

Pet Loss

Holidays, Pet Loss and Grief

by Barb Hayson December 23, 2021March 25, 2022

Ah, the holidays…a cause for celebrating with good friends and family, but also a difficult time of year for so many. It’s taken me a long time to be able to write this post, but it feels like the right time to finally do it. Some of you may know that our beloved 9-year-old rescue …