Pets are family.

end of life pet photography overland park kansas pet photography leah gunn emerick lgemerick kansas city best photographer

“Thank you Leah, it was a wonderful day for [ our dog] and for us. You were so good with our dog. She relaxed and you got these outstanding photos. I really loved the black and white ones. So artistic! We were most impressed with your ability to relate to [ our dog ] . You did not let her mobility problems affect your interaction with her and you were able to get these special photos. It has meant so much to us to have them.”

  • from loving pet parents

“Hi Leah… I wanted to let you know that [ our pet’s ] last day with us was today. She took a turn for the worse this weekend and we knew it was time to let her go. We are so grateful for the wonderful pictures we have from when she was feeling a bit more like herself - we will treasure these always. Thanks again.”

  • sweet pet mommy

young girl snuggling her golden lab end of life pet photography kansas city best photographer in kansas city leah gunn emerick lgemerick

When the time comes for them to cross the rainbow bridge, it is absolutely heart-rending. There is little that can ease the pain left behind when our faithful friend leaves, but I find that pictures help hold the important memory of their life bright.

If you are looking to have your precious pet professionally photographed in their final days, you are in the right place.

Ready to reach out? Go here.

Have questions? Here’s our FAQ.

small senior dog with wiry gray black and white fur and a white eye looking up at their master off camera in a field in kansas city missouri

“I wanted to let you know that [ our dog ] peacefully crossed the rainbow bridge yesterday following Lap of Love providing in home euthanasia. Your photos have provided a great deal of comfort during this incredibly difficult time. Thank you.”

  • Satisfied dog mom

woman with her dog sitting at the end of a pier at smithville lake in kansas city looking away from the camera on a misty morning

FAQ

Q. What is the cost of a End of/Celebration of life pet session?

I do not charge for these sessions, but I do ask that you donate a minimum of $100 to a verified pet charity of your choice in memory of your beloved pet. At the time of booking we will provide you with a list of our favorite organizations if you don’t have one in mind.

Q. Who qualifies for these sessions?

These sessions are reserved for pets that are either at the end of their life (senior pets), and/or pets that have received a terminal diagnosis. If you would like photography for your pet but they do not meet this criteria (or you aren’t sure if they do), please contact us.

Q. Where do these sessions take place?

The location is flexible and typically dictated by the needs of the pet. Popular locations include favorite parks or places the pet enjoys as a treat, or your own home where the pet is comfortable. I am willing to travel up to a 25 mile radius from Kansas City for these sessions. If you are outside of this radius but would still like to use my services, please contact us.

senior mixed breed dog with black fur white blaze and blue eyes gazing off camera with a smile in kansas city missouri senior pet photography

Q. How long are these sessions?

I will photograph your pet (with family or by themselves) for approximately twenty minutes.

Q. How many images can I expect to receive?

The number of photos depends on a variety of factors, but my aim is to deliver a minimum of 20 high quality images within two weeks of your session.

Q. Do you have species restrictions for these sessions (e.g. no snakes, etc)?

No, but I do reserve the right to refuse service if I personally feel the situation to be too dangerous.

young man reclining on brown couch with senior cat crouched on his leg contentedly lgemerick kansas city lgemerick photography end of life pet

Q. Will you share my images?

I reserve the right to share any non-identifying images from all sessions. If human-likeness is in the image I only share with permission.

Q. Do you photograph the humans as well?

Yes. Family members absolutely can be included in the session, but we understand that not everyone wants to be photographed. If you want a pet-only session that is fine.

Q. Why do you do these sessions?

Be it terminal illness , old age, or both - it is never easy to say goodbye. As a life-long animal lover, I know that one of the most bittersweet seasons imaginable is walking alongside your pet in their final days. Not much helps once they are gone, but I have found that having photos eased the ache of missing them.

Here is a self-portrait of me saying goodbye to my 19-year-old pup, Sammy, the day before we helped him cross the rainbow bridge. This photo will not bring back my dog, but it does keep our sweet bond alive through memory.

Inquire About Availability