“Waiting”: to find a family someday…
The winning photo in the “Documentary” category highlights shelter dogs that are waiting—sometimes indefinitely—for a forever family. Tianhang wants to show the true conditions of shelter dogs. In this interview, he tells us how he takes photos in these challenging environments where there are so many dogs.
How did you get into dog photography?
My passion for dog photography comes from my sincere fondness and admiration for dogs themselves. I truly enjoy every moment spent interacting and connecting with them. Capturing their genuine and vivid moments through the lens is far more than simple shooting work for me. It is a comforting and rewarding experience that continuously fuels my dedication to dog photography.
Do you often photograph at shelters?
Yes, I regularly visit local animal shelters to photograph the dogs there. I believe photography carries unique documentary and communicative power. My shooting is not only about creating beautiful portraits, but also about faithfully recording the real living conditions of shelter dogs. I hope to help the public understand the true situation of stray and rescued dogs, and break common stereotypes about them. Most importantly, these truthful and delicate images fully show each dog’s unique personality and charm, helping them gain more exposure and attract more potential adopters who are willing to offer them loving and permanent homes.
Could you tell us more about this dog shelter?
This animal shelter is dedicated to assisting dogs in need. It mainly rescues and takes in stray dogs, abandoned pets, and injured or sick dogs that require professional care. The shelter’s staff and volunteers take comprehensive care of the dogs, including professional medical treatment, scientific feeding, and thoughtful daily companionship. The goal is to find stable, warm, and long-term adoptive families for every healthy and adoptable dog. I have seen many follow-up photos shared by adopters. Witnessing these once helpless dogs finally live stable, happy, and cared-for lives brings me great relief and makes all my photographic efforts worthwhile.
While creating this image, what posed the greatest challenge for you?
My biggest challenges come from the unpredictable state of the dogs and the complex shooting environment. The shelter houses a large number of dogs, and they always become extremely excited whenever I arrive to shoot. Their energetic and spontaneous reactions often make the scene chaotic and difficult to control. In addition, the shelter environment is cluttered with many distractions, requiring me to constantly adjust my angles, composition, and lighting to capture suitable moments. Even so, the dogs always bring lovely and unexpected surprises during shooting, such as slobbery faces and muddy paw prints on my clothes. These little and unique moments are their special gifts, which I truly cherish.
Lastly, can you give us a glimpse into any upcoming projects you’re currently working on?
I have been devoted to professional dog photography for more than ten years. Over the years, I have photographed tens of thousands of dogs with different breeds, personalities, and life stories. I have witnessed countless touching, powerful, and inspiring stories through them. Currently, I am creating an original short video series titled Shoot 100 Dogs with Stories. Using videos and photographs as the main medium, this project explores and records the unique journeys and heartwarming stories behind every ordinary dog. I hope to share these genuine and touching stories through online platforms, allowing more people to feel how incredible dogs truly are.
