You know that photographer who does the awesome photos of dogs underwater? You've likely seen them and shared them...
That photographer is Seth Casteel, and he does more than just take groundbreaking photos of pets. He does groundbreaking work for pets.
In addition to his life as a world-renowned photographer and New York Times Best Selling Author, in 2007, he started volunteer work to help homeless pets find loving families. Through photography, he showcases these animals-in-need in a positive light that captures their true personalities. Casteel created a Web site, Second Chance Photos, that is dedicated to this quest. The Web site explains
When a dog or cat arrives at an animal shelter, it often is scared, dirty and disoriented. As part of the intake process, the animal has their photo taken, and this untimely photo is the face that people see when looking to potentially adopt a pet. An inaccurate headshot can hurt its chances of adoption, but an uplifting, hopeful portrait can save its life.
Check out this before & after:
AMAZING, right? Which dog would you be more likely to adopt? Wait–it's the same dog!
The Second Chance Photos Web site aims to educate shelter photographers, offering technical guidance and even a free pdf of shelter pet photography tips. Another goal of the organization is to increase awareness about rescue and adoption. Second Chance Photos also orchestrates fundraisers so shelters can purchase better photography equipment. Casteel and Second Chance Photos also conduct workshops for shelters.
The work they do is amazing, and something that often gets overlooked. But, oh, what a difference it makes! Connect with Second Chance Photos on Twitter and Facebook.