Wilmington Pet Photographer Pays Tribute to Beloved Client

Last week, I learned that a truly special four-legged client, Roxy, had passed away unexpectedly. She was part of so many special moments over the past year, and her absence is deeply felt.

I met Roxy almost a year ago when her mom, Michelle, reached out to me. Michelle was preparing to launch her dog-assisted therapy clinic here in Wilmington and needed professional photos to help introduce her work to the world. 

Roxy was Michelle’s partner, both in business and in life, and watching them work together was something special. I had the privilege of capturing their bond over the course of several sessions, from in-home setups to both of my studio spaces to casual pop-ins at market days. Every time I saw her, she greeted me like an old friend and posed like a total pro.

dog smiling with a headband of turkey legs

Pit bull mix dog with reindeer antlers on

pitbull mix dog with glasses that read 2025 on them

She was the kind of dog that made you believe in soulmates. She trusted Michelle completely, let us dress her up or place her just so, and always lit up when the treats came out. She had this laser focus on the treats that always made Michelle and I crack up.

Over the past year, I watched Michelle’s business grow and evolve, and I have been proud to cheer her on. Roxy was there for all of it. She even welcomed a new puppy sister, Maple Spice, and stepped into her role as big sister with her usual mix of patience and sweetness.

Woman sitting with two dogs on pink background. She is smiling and holding onto dogs

One adult dog and one puppy sitting side by side on beige background

The last time I saw Roxy was during a session at the studio to celebrate Michelle’s engagement. Looking back, I am so grateful that this ended up being her final session. The whole family was together, our girl was happy, and it felt like such a celebration. 

Roxy leaves behind a huge legacy. Not just through the clients she helped or the life she built with Michelle, but in the joy she gave to everyone who met her. I am grateful to have documented so many little moments of that joy. These photos feel heavier now. But they are also a gift. A way to hold onto the light she brought with her everywhere she went.

To Michelle: thank you for trusting me with your girl. It has been an honor. Roxy was the best of the best.