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Rustic farmyard pet photography in rural Guelph

A pony in a winter field on a frosty morning at a rural farm in Guelph, Ontario.

On a frosty morning in April I had the wonderful opportunity of photographing the animals on a serene, rural farm just outside of Guelph, Ontario. I love farms. Many of my relatives are farmers and there is nothing better than the fresh air (sometimes it’s really fresh!), open spaces and tranquility of the countryside. This was a first in many ways. Not only did I photograph four dogs and at least three cats, but I also had two ponies, a horse, a goat and several chickens in front of my lens, by far the largest number and greatest variety of animals I’ve photographed in one session!

The woman that runs this rural gem is quite remarkable. She’s an artist, a mother, and a grandmother, and she runs this farm essentially on her own with help from generous neighbours and friends. She has a bad hip (surgery is on the books) and she’s still up early turning out the horses and feeding the barn cats. Most of the animals here were unwanted and this kindhearted soul graciously took them in regardless of their condition or background, including Mickey, a senior collie who had his tongue cut off by his previous owner for barking too much. She has adopted horses that were simply dropped off in her pastures.

This refuge is a quietly inspirational place with simply beauty and a feeling of comfort. You can tell the animals are happy here. As is their wonderful owner.
A pony in a winter field on a frosty morning at a rural farm in Guelph, Ontario.A white horse in a snow covered farm pasture with morning light in rural Ontario photo.A smiling portrait of a horse in a countryside barn yard photo.This is Bindi, who I’m convinced is the world’s friendliest goat. If I was kneeling for a shot her nose was in my ear. If my back was turned I would get a gentle head-butt in the, er, butt. She is awesome! I kind of want a goat now!
Friendly pygmy goat portrait by Ontario pet photographer on a rural Guelph farm photo.

Barn and barn cats, Guelp pet photography photo. Woman farmer holding chickens portrait photo.The newest additions to the family are these two Bernese-Great Pyrenees mix puppies. They are only nine months old, but they are huge!
Bernese Mountain Dog and Great Pyrenees mix puppies playing and chewing a bone on a tennis court photo.And then there is master of the house, V’Lu, which is short for Voodoo.
Professional pet portrait of black poodle in colourful chair by Guelph, Ontario dog photographer.Relaxed lifestyle pet photography on a rustic farm in Ontario.He shares the inside of the house with resident cat Misty and senior collie Mickey, who was rescued from terrible conditions. It’s comforting to know he will live out his golden years with a loving owner and lots of freedom.
A black poodle and senior collie dog on a picturesque country farm photo.Natural light photography of a grey cat in a cozy home library photo.A peaceful and scenic farmyard with snow and a grazing white horse in morning light photo.
This farmyard pet photography session is one of the most peaceful sessions I’ve ever had — it was just a really scenic, lovely place and my mind was quiet. And the best part is I got tipped with fresh eggs! I can’t wait to visit again.