Meet the Photographer: My Journey with Dogs, Horses, and Storytelling

Shannon Edney
Jul 27, 2024
2 min read

Updated: Dec 30, 2025

Photography, for me, has always been about connection.

Long before it became my profession, animals — especially dogs and horses — shaped the way I see the world. They’ve been my companions, teachers, and constant sources of inspiration, and photographing them became a natural extension of the bond I’ve shared with them my entire life.

Where It All Began

I grew up surrounded by animals. Dogs were part of the rhythm of everyday life, and horses became a constant presence not long after. Their personalities, intelligence, sensitivity, and ability to connect without words fascinated me.

I began photographing my own animals and those of friends and family, simply wanting to hold onto moments that felt meaningful. Over time, I realized how powerful those images were — not just for me, but for the people who loved those animals just as deeply.

What started as a personal passion grew into a calling.

Why Dogs and Horses

Dogs and horses share something special: an ability to be fully present with us.

Dogs bring joy, loyalty, and an openness that fills every day with warmth. Horses offer partnership, trust, and a quiet depth that leaves a lasting imprint on our lives. Though different in nature, both form relationships that shape who we are.

My work is rooted in honoring that connection — capturing not just how an animal looks, but who they are and what they mean to you.

The Heart of My Work

I’m drawn to moments that feel honest and unforced.

A dog mid-stride, ears flying. A horse standing quietly in soft light. A shared glance, a subtle shift in posture, a breath caught in stillness. These are the moments where stories live.

Rather than rushed or overly posed sessions, I create experiences that allow space for connection, movement, and calm — resulting in portraits that feel expressive, timeless, and deeply personal.

Home Base: The Treasure Valley and Beyond

Now based in Caldwell, Idaho, I serve the greater Treasure Valley and beyond.

This region’s diverse landscapes — open fields, rivers, mountains, and quiet spaces — provide a beautiful backdrop for both dog and horse portraits. Many of my sessions are destination-inspired, thoughtfully planned around light, environment, and the experience itself.

Place matters. It becomes part of the story.

An Experience Designed with Care

Whether photographing a playful puppy, a lifelong canine companion, or a horse who has shaped a chapter of your life, my approach is always the same: calm, patient, and intentional.

From planning to final artwork, I guide you through the process so you can simply enjoy the experience — knowing your animal is being seen, respected, and beautifully documented.

Let’s Create Something Meaningful

Every animal has a story worth preserving.

If you’re here because your dog or horse is family — a constant, a partner, a piece of your heart — I would be honored to help tell that story through art.