Sara Waldon - Member Spotlight
Sep 05, 2025
Photography started as a hobby, but it’s quickly grown into a passion I hope to turn into a business – especially in the world of dog photography, which comes with its own unique challenges and rewards. I raise and show French Bulldogs and am proud to say that my boy, Dexter, is currently the #1 French Bulldog in conformation for 2024. He’s also my favorite camera ham and the inspiration behind much of my work.
While Dexter is my main muse, I’ve been expanding my portfolio by photographing dogs belonging to friends and family. I joined this group based on glowing recommendations from current members, and I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and capturing the spirit of every pup I meet.
Tell us a bit about you?
Wife, proud mom of three amazing grown kids, and grandma to five sweet grandbabies π
French Bulldog enthusiast with three show-stopping pups—Dexter, Tyson & Sassy πΎ
I don’t have a photography business yet, but I’m exploring ways to turn my passion into something more.
Loving the journey, one image at a time.
Why did you start photographing pets?
Pet photography is a relatively new passion for me – I began focusing on it about three years ago, even though I’ve been behind the camera for much longer. Raising and showing French Bulldogs naturally steered my creative eye toward capturing dogs and their unique personalities. What started as a hobby has grown into a true love for showcasing the spirit, charm, and individuality of each pup I photograph.
What camera and lenses do you most often use?
I am currently using a Sony a9ii. I have several lenses but my new favorite is 70-200 f2.8
What’s one thing in your camera bag you can’t live without?
Extra batteries, treats, noise makers, a drool rag, and the rain cover for my camera
What’s the best thing about being a pet photographer?
I absolutely love connecting with dogs and capturing what makes each one special — their personality, charm, and quirks. There’s something incredibly rewarding about freezing those little moments in time. Even more meaningful is being able to give pet owners lasting memories of their beloved furbabies through my images.
How would you describe your style?
My style is all about capturing each pet’s unique personality. As I continue to grow and learn, I’ve noticed my style evolving — and I’m embracing that journey. It’s definitely still a work in progress, but that’s part of what makes it exciting.
What is your proudest achievement as a pet photographer?
Since joining this group, I’ve had the exciting opportunity to have a couple of my images published — one in a national breed magazine and another in a city publication. While those moments have been incredibly rewarding, my true goal remains simple: to create meaningful images that pet owners can cherish for a lifetime.
What are your photography goals for the future?
I’d love to turn my passion for pet photography into a small business, creating meaningful images for pet owners to treasure. Beyond that, I’m also eager to use my skills to give back — volunteering with animal charities and rescue organizations to help showcase adoptable pets and support their missions through photography.
What do you do to cultivate and nurture your creativity?
I don’t have any active projects at the moment, but I’m focused on continuing my development. I completed Embark last year and am currently enrolled in Emerge to keep building my skills and refining my craft.
What specific skills have improved since being an Unleashed Education member?
I’ve sharpened my shooting and editing skills, expanded my creativity, and learned how to truly create an image — rather than just take a picture. It’s been a game-changer in how I approach my work and express each dog’s unique personality.
What's your favourite thing about being an Unleashed Education member?
One of the things I love most about Unleashed Education is the flexibility — it allows me to learn at my own pace and revisit classes whenever I need a refresher. The amount of content available is truly endless, with new content frequently. But what really stands out is the community. The support, encouragement, and willingness to help—no matter what I ask or share—has been one of the most valuable parts of the experience.
Dex at Cadillac Ranch
Dixie on the beach
Ellie
Soloman
Sweet and Sassy
Keeshond puppy
Eskie Puppy
Woody
Follow Sara Waldon
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