The Underdogs Project

A fundraising portrait project designed to create treasured keepsake artwork, support local rescue efforts and inspire more people to choose adoption.

If your dog wasn't here tomorrow...

Would you feel satisfied with the photos you have of them right now?

Many of my clients tell me they have thousands of photos of their dog, but they still haven't created anything that feels truly special.

• The photos they already have aren't quite the quality they hoped for.

• They're always behind the camera, so don’t have their connection captured.

• They've thought about doing something like this for years, but never got around to it.

What would it feel like to finally have artwork of your dog that you absolutely love?

The next step is simply finding out what's possible.

 

Schedule Your
15-Minute Discovery Call

This is a brief, no-pressure conversation about your dog, what you love most about them, and whether creating artwork together makes sense for you.

If it feels like a good fit, we can talk about next steps. If not, that's perfectly okay too.

 

💛 This is for you if…

👉 You’ve rescued a dog that’s become more like family than a pet.

👉 You’re not 100% satisfied with the photos you already have.

👉 You believe your dog’s story could inspire others to adopt.

👉 You love the idea of honoring your dog and supporting a local rescue.

 

This project gives back!

TO date, the Underdogs project has raised $6000 for Rescue One Springfield!

 

Inspire others!

Your dog’s story could be featured in Volume 2 of the Underdogs coffee table book series.

Preview Volume 1:

Underdogs: Tales of Rescue, True Love and Finding Home is a heartwarming fundraising coffee table book celebrating the incredible journeys of rescued dogs and the families who gave them a second chance. Through powerful portraits and moving personal stories, this collection captures the spirit of resilience, unconditional love, and the deep bond between humans and their dogs. Every story is a testament to hope, healing, and the joy of finding a true home. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of personalized custom portrait artwork supports rescue efforts, giving more underdogs the happy endings they deserve.

pre-order volume 1
 
 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • YOUR SESSION FEE COVERS

    A Custom Portrait Experience
    A fully guided studio session in my Marionville studio focused on the relationship you share with your rescue dog. You’re welcome to be photographed with them and include family members and other pets if you’d like. This is a custom experience designed around your story.

    A Personalized Artwork Design Appointment
    After your session, we’ll meet to design custom printed keepsake artwork. This piece is personal. It’s meant to be treasured and enjoyed for years to come.

    Images and artwork are not included and are purchased separately.

    YOUR PURCHASE OF PRINTED ARTWORK INCLUDES

    A Feature in the Underdogs Book
    Your dog will be featured with a portrait and your story as part of a collection celebrating second chances. The book is designed to inspire others to choose adoption and see the beauty in an Underdog.

  • Yes, I do shoot limited weekday evenings and some Saturday mornings.

  • All printed artwork orders include the matching digital image to share on your social media. As a full-service artwork photographer, I specialize in helping you select the perfect images and design artwork that fits your home.

  • No worries! I’ve photographed countless dogs of all sizes and temperments. I’ve never not been able to get quality shots. We will take our time to let your dog settle and get used to his/her environment.

  • Step 1: Apply

    Submit your pet's application below.

    The application window is open until all spots are filled, so don’t wait to apply!

    Step 2: Discovery Call

    Barbara will contact you to talk about your dog, address any questions you may have, and outline the logistics.

    Step 3: Book Your Custom Photo Shoot

    Pay your Underdog Book Project Fee and select a date for your photo session.

    Step 4: Photoshoot & Ordering Appointment

    We will create beautiful photos of your dog (and you) and design your custom keepsake artwork all in one session.

    Step 5: Artwork Printing and Delivery

    I’ll handle expert professional printing and finishing so all you need to do is enjoy your artwork when it arrives.

    👆 Fill out the form to get started! 👆

  • Yes!
    A portion of the proceeds from your artwork purchase are donated to Rescue One.

    Rescue One is a state-licensed, 501(c)(3), foster-based rescue located in Springfield, MO. All of the animals in our care live in foster homes until a forever home can be found. We rescue without regard to breed, age, or ease of placement. Our mission is not only to rescue animals in need, but to also educate the public on responsible pet ownership and help provide low cost spay/neuter for those in need of assistance.

    Since forming in 2013, Rescue One has helped saved thousands of animals. Dogs find their way to us for many reasons: some are owner surrenders, some are strays, some dogs are found abandoned, left to fend for themselves in vacant homes, open fields, or on the side of the road, and many are pulled from area kill shelters. Besides giving love and socialization to the animals, all will receive necessary medical care, required vaccinations, and be spayed or neutered prior to adoption.

    Our goal is to place animals in responsible, committed homes, and considerable care will be taken to find good matches for both the animals and the adopters.

 

Meet Your Photographer

Hi!, I’m Barb!

As a dog mom, I know just how deeply our pets become part of our hearts — and our families. They greet us at the door, curl up beside us when we’re hurting, and somehow always know how to make us laugh. Their time with us is never long enough, and I believe every dog deserves to be remembered, celebrated, and deeply loved.

That’s why I specialize in creating meaningful portrait experiences for people who see their pets not as animals, but as soulmates. Whether you rescued your dog or they rescued you, I want to help you tell their story and preserve the love you share with artwork that will last long after paw prints fade.

These aren’t just portraits — they’re love stories, captured in a way you’ll treasure forever.

☝️ schedule your discovery call ☝️