Columbus photographer Claudine Kosier has launched an innovative community program that pairs high school seniors with rescue dogs to create professional portraits that dramatically increase adoption rates. The initiative combines Kosier's expertise in senior portraiture with her passion for animal rescue, creating a sustainable model that benefits both students and homeless pets. Through this unique program, students gain hands-on experience in all aspects of photography production while helping animals in need. They participate in dog handling, camera preparation, lighting setup, and behind-the-scenes documentation, developing valuable skills in photography, animal care, and community service. This practical experience occurs while contributing to a cause that Kosier describes as deeply personal, stating "My rescue dogs are my world."
The program addresses a documented need in animal welfare efforts, as professional photography has been proven to significantly boost adoption rates for shelter animals. High-quality images help potential adopters form emotional connections with pets before meeting them in person, making the adoption process more effective. Kosier's approach extends her professional philosophy that "everyone deserves to feel beautiful, confident, and truly seen" to include rescue animals, capturing their unique personalities in ways that go beyond simple snapshots. Kosier, who has operated her portrait photography business since 2010 and relocated to Dublin from Las Vegas in 2012, has built her reputation on personal service and community impact. Her work has appeared in publications including Senior Muse, Voyage Ohio Magazine, and Senior Style Guide.
The rescue dog photography program represents a natural extension of her community commitment, creating a model that serves multiple stakeholders while addressing genuine needs. By involving high school students in meaningful volunteer work, the program not only helps rescue dogs find permanent homes but also inspires the next generation of community leaders and animal advocates. The collaboration creates professional-quality portraits that showcase each dog's individual personality, helping potential adopters connect with them on a deeper level. More information about the program is available through https://www.claudinekosier.com/.
