meet erica
Hello!About Ash & Alder
Photography has always been part of my life, but it was my deep connection with animals that led me to specialize in pet portraiture. For the past eight years, I’ve dedicated my work to capturing the personality and quiet presence of the animals we call family.
That dedication became even more personal after losing one of my own dogs far too young. She passed at just a year and a half old, and I realized I didn’t have professional portraits of her to display in my home. The absence of those images still stays with me — and it quietly shapes the way I approach every session.
Living alongside dogs, pigs, cats, and chickens has given me a hands-on understanding of animal behavior that extends far beyond the camera. I’ve learned to anticipate moments, read subtle body language, and create images that feel natural and true to each animal’s spirit. Whether your dog is energetic, reserved, senior, reactive, or somewhere in between, I approach every session with patience, adaptability, and respect for who they are.
Over the years, I’ve seen how different it feels when a portrait lives on a wall instead of on a phone. I’ve watched clients pause in front of framed pieces months later and tell me it’s their favorite thing in the room. I’ve witnessed how quickly seasons change — and how meaningful it is to have something tangible that holds onto them.
That’s why I don’t simply deliver images. I guide you through selecting artwork that fits your home and feels true to your pet — not because it sounds elevated, but because I’ve seen how much it matters.
My role is to create something meaningful — and to guide you through the process in a way that feels calm, clear, and deeply respectful of the bond you share.
Learn more about the portrait experience.

