I experienced a dream come true yesterday. I'm in Durham/Raleigh for business and I realized that this is the home of Shannon Johnstone, a photographer who has been photographing the series Landfill Dogs. She brings dogs that are part of the Wake County Animal Shelter (either in the shelter or in foster care) to Landfill Park and photographs them. Before the park became a park, it was a landfill and this is where dogs that were euthanized (because no one stepped up to adopt them) are buried. Despite the somewhat grisly history, this is a beautiful place and her photos are filled with hope and joy. Johnstone has been a significant source of inspiration for my volunteer work as a photographer for animal rescue and rehab groups. You can see some of her work here.

Landfill Dogs

I decided "nothing ventured, nothing gained" and sent her an email, asking if she wanted to meet for a coffee - or if she might have a photo shoot scheduled while I was in the area. And as it turned out, she did have a shoot scheduled last night. And so I got to spend the golden hour last night with three very special beings: Shannon, Giovanni, and his foster mother Lisa. I'm so grateful I was able to share this time with them.

[slowpez]

What a great story and what an inspiration. Thank you for your efforts on behalf of these animals and also that of Ms. Johnstone.

[sealonsf]

Love this! Good for you. Very inspiring.

[Kerrowdown]

What a great shot for an inspiring story, lets hope it benefits those who need it...

[Kriss]

Amazing photo....and amazing work by Shannon Johnstone. Thanks for sharing!

[Photogoof]

I experienced a dream come true yesterday. I'm in Durham/Raleigh for business and I realized that this is the home of Shannon Johnstone, a photographer who has been photographing the series Landfill Dogs. She brings dogs that are part of the Wake County Animal Shelter (either in the shelter or in foster care) to Landfill Park and photographs them. Before the park became a park, it was a landfill and this is where dogs that were euthanized (because no one stepped up to adopt them) are buried. Despite the somewhat grisly history, this is a beautiful place and her photos are filled with hope and joy. Johnstone has been a significant source of inspiration for my volunteer work as a photographer for animal rescue and rehab groups. You can see some of her work here.

Landfill Dogs

I decided "nothing ventured, nothing gained" and sent her an email, asking if she wanted to meet for a coffee - or if she might have a photo shoot scheduled while I was in the area. And as it turned out, she did have a shoot scheduled last night. And so I got to spend the golden hour last night with three very special beings: Shannon, Giovanni, and his foster mother Lisa. I'm so grateful I was able to share this time with them.

As only a dog can express it!