I took this photo after my best friend and goodest boy ever passed away, and I think a lot of reason why I like this photo is, for me, aspects of it make me project a lot of the feelings I had at the time.

My model standing alone, shaded, basking in the sun that is reflecting off the water reminds me of my feelings of loneliness and sadness as the rest of the bright world carried on. The rolling, crashing waves makes me think of my anger for losing a loved one and for my realization I had taken him for granted. And an overall picturesque scene of a setting sun over a lake, reminds me of hoping for better times, for when the grieving was over and I was at peace from my sad and uncomfortable thoughts.

Anyone who says “They’re just pets.” or “They’re just animals.” are people I want nothing to ever do with. They’re family, and if they’re not to you, give them to someone who will make them family.