Presenting PJ the Playful Pitbull Pup – The Muse Behind My Pet Photography Journey

Before I officially launched Pets Are Really Cool, there was PJ—a playful, mischievous, and incredibly loveable foster puppy who unknowingly set me on this path. My partner and I fostered him for a short time here in Harrisburg, NC, and in those days, he became my very first muse.

Pitbull puppy staring intensely at a tennis ball while laying on the cement

Forget fetch—PJ had his own rules when it came to tennis balls!

Whether it was ping pong balls, leaves, or tennis balls, PJ was always ready for playtime. He loved chasing his favorite toys but wasn’t always the best at bringing them back. His carefree spirit and playful energy made capturing moments like these so much fun.

PJ was a mix of energy and sweetness. He’d race through the yard chasing leaves and ping pong balls, always on a mission. He had no sense of personal space—if I crouched down to photograph him, he’d come barreling straight into me (and my camera)! But when you picked him up? He’d melt completely, going limp in your arms like he was made for snuggles.

Pitbull puppy sitting on a driveway with grass behind him holding a comically large stick

Go big or go home! PJ was always up for a challenge—even if the stick was twice his size!

This playful pitbull puppy never backed down from an oversized adventure! PJ loved carrying the biggest sticks he could find, trotting around like he had just won a prize. His energy and determination made every moment a perfect photo opportunity.

One of my most defining moments as a Charlotte pet photographer came when I captured a close-up of PJ, his head resting on the ground, gazing up at me with those soulful puppy eyes. That photo made me realize something—I had a talent for this. Capturing pets in their purest, most authentic moments brought me a joy I hadn’t expected.

Pitbull puppy laying his head on a bed looking soulful

Eyes full of wonder, heart full of love. PJ had a way of looking right into your soul.

This intimate close-up captures the soft, lovable side of PJ. With his head resting gently and his eyes filled with curiosity, this was one of the first moments I realized I had an eye for pet photography. It was a picture of pure trust and connection.

While I don’t officially know where PJ ended up, I truly believe he found his fur-ever home. And for me? He gave me the push I needed to pursue what I love—photographing pets and preserving their personalities through my lens.

Pitbull puppy standing in grass next to a brick wall with a leaf in his mouth and a tennis ball at his feet

Decisions, decisions… chew the leaf or chase the ball?

PJ’s playful personality always kept me on my toes! He had a love for the simple things—leaves, tennis balls, and just being outside. In this shot, he perfectly embodies the carefree joy of puppyhood, caught in a moment of playful indecision.

If you’re looking for a dog photography session in Charlotte or the surrounding areas, I’d love to help capture your pet’s personality in a way you’ll cherish forever. Visit PetsAreReallyCool.com to book your session today!

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A Day with Mani, London & Monty: Capturing Personality in Pet Photography