Could your dog be one of the 35 dogs featured in Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State?
They are the trail companions, the ranch helpers, the backseat copilots, the porch guardians, and the steady hearts that make this vast state feel like home.
These portraits will be created in some of Wyoming’s most iconic and breathtaking locations - wide open plains, weathered barns, mountain backdrops, and gorgeous lakes. The kind of places that shape strong dogs and unforgettable stories.
Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State is a beautifully crafted coffee table book project honoring the dogs we love while giving back to Wyoming animal shelters.
Created by award-winning Wyoming pet photographer Marni Christensen, whose work has helped hundreds of dogs find homes through local rescue organizations.
This special project is limited to just 35 dogs from across the state, each chosen to represent the spirit and personality of Wyoming dogs. Applications are now open, and sessions will begin this spring.
This book is about the dogs who live here and the lives they lead across this rugged, beautiful state. They are the trail companions, the ranch helpers, the backseat copilots, the porch guardians, and the steady hearts that make this vast state feel like home.
I am not looking for perfectly behaved dogs. I am looking for personality. The head tilts. The muddy paws. The wind in their fur. The joyful, goofy smiles. The midair leaps. The quiet wisdom in an old dog’s eyes. The dogs with stories written all over their faces. Mixed breeds, shy dogs, goofy dogs, senior dogs, and energetic puppies are all welcome.
My goal is to create a lasting keepsake that honors the dogs who define our communities while raising funds to support local rescue organizations here in Wyoming. This book will be a tribute to loyalty, resilience, joy, and the unforgettable spirit of dogs in the Cowboy State.
Every dog has a story. I would be honored to help tell yours.
If you would love to see your dog’s portrait featured in Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State, tell me about them in the application below.
Only 35 Dogs Will Be Selected Across Wyoming, so I encourage you to apply soon.
How the Wyoming Dogs Book Project Works
1
APPLY
(It's Free)
Start by filling out the application below.
There is no cost to apply, and dogs of all breeds, ages, and personalities are welcome.
We are looking for dogs who represent the spirit of Wyoming, the trail companions, ranch helpers, family pets, and rescue stories.
2
SELECTION
Applications will be carefully reviewed, and 35 dogs from across Wyoming will be selected to participate in the project.
My goal is to feature a wonderful variety of dogs that represent life in the Cowboy State - different breeds, personalities, ages, and stories.
Some dogs may be chosen because of their adventurous spirit, others for their goofy personalities, their special bond with their family, or the unique role they play in everyday Wyoming life.
If your dog is selected, you will receive an invitation to officially join the project, secure your session date, and pay your registration fee.
If more than 35 applications are received, additional applicants may be placed on a waiting list in case a space becomes available.
Dogs of all breeds, ages, and personalities are encouraged to apply.
3
REGISTER
To secure your place, you will choose one of the following registration options:
Standard Registration - $250 ($125 donated)
Book Bundle Registration - $300 (Book Included & $175 donated)
A portion of your registration fee will be donated to Wyoming animal shelters.
Once registered, we will schedule your photography session.
4
THE SESSION
Your dog’s Signature Photo Session will take place at a beautiful Wyoming location sometime between March and September, surrounded by the landscapes that make this state so special.
I will guide you through the entire experience, choosing the location, light, and moments that best highlight your dog’s personality.
Sessions last up to 90 minutes and are relaxed, fun, and designed to capture your dog’s true personality.
No perfect obedience required. Head tilts, goofy smiles, wind-blown ears, chasing balls, and joyful chaos are all welcome.
Families and other pets are welcome to participate as well. While the book will feature a portrait of the dog selected for the project, we can absolutely capture images with your other dogs, pets, or family members during the session.
Many families also choose to turn their favorite portraits into beautiful wall art or albums so they can enjoy their dog’s story every day in their home.
5
THE BOOK
After your session, I will personally select the portrait that best represents your dog for the final book design so the entire collection flows beautifully.
Each dog chosen for the book will be featured as part of Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State, a coffee table book celebrating the dogs who make this state home.
6
THE REVEAL
After the session, I will create a personalized gallery reveal for you to view in the comfort of your own home.
You will have 7 days to view your images and choose any artwork you would love. We will meet on Zoom afterward so I can help you finalize your favorites and design artwork for your home.
There is no minimum purchase requirement. You only buy what you love.
To give you an idea of investment:
- Tabletop Art begins at $349
- Signature Wall Art begins at $649
- Most families choose a Collection starting at $1,150, which includes artwork and matching digital files.
Dogs of All Breeds, Ages, and Personalities Are Welcome
What Kind of Dogs Are We Looking For?
We are looking for dogs who represent the heart and spirit of Wyoming.
That might be the dog who rides shotgun in your pickup, the trail companion who hikes every mountain with you, the ranch dog who takes their job seriously, or the couch snuggler who believes the entire sofa belongs to them.
Some dogs are bold and adventurous. Others are goofy, wise, shy, stubborn, or full of joyful chaos. Every personality is welcome.
We would love to include:
- Trail dogs and adventure dogs
- Ranch dogs and working dogs
- Rescue dogs with special stories
- Senior dogs with wise, soulful faces
- Puppies with big personalities
- The head tilt champions
- Dogs with hilarious expressions or goofy smiles
- Dogs who are truly part of the family
- Loyal sidekicks who go everywhere with their people
- Happy couch potatoes and professional snugglers
- The ball-obsessed dogs who could play fetch forever
- The dogs who greet you like you’ve been gone for a year (even if it was five minutes)
Your dog does not need to be perfectly trained, perfectly groomed, or perfectly behaved.
Some of the most memorable portraits come from the dogs who are a little silly, a little wild, or completely themselves.
In other words… if you love your dog, they probably belong in this book.
Registration Options
If your application is accepted, you will receive an invitation to officially join the Wyoming Dogs Book Project.
To reserve your dog’s spot, simply choose one of the registration options below.
Many participants choose the Book Bundle, so they already have their copy of the finished book featuring their dog reserved.
Both options include your dog’s 90-minute Signature Photography Session and a donation to participating Wyoming animal shelters.
Option 1: Book Bundle Registration — $300
(Most Popular)
- $175 donation to Wyoming animal shelters
- Your dog featured in the Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State book
- A 90-minute Signature Photography Session
- One hardcover copy of the finished book (a $75 value) is included at a special participant rate
This option allows you to enjoy the finished book featuring your dog as soon as it is released.
Option 2: Standard Registration — $250
- $125 donation to Wyoming animal shelters
- Your dog featured in the Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State book
- A 90-minute Signature Photography Session
The book is not included with this option but can be purchased separately once it is released.
Apply here to be featured in
Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State
ARTWORK THAT HONORS THE LOVE BEHIND EVERY IMAGE
One day, the photos of our dogs become some of the most meaningful things we have.
Long after the muddy paws are gone and the house feels a little quieter, those images are what bring their spirit back into the room.
That is why my goal is not just to take photographs, but to create portraits that truly honor the relationship you share with your dog.
During your Wyoming Dogs Book Project session, I will capture natural, expressive images that reflect your dog’s personality. Afterward, you will have the opportunity to turn your favorite portraits into beautiful custom artwork designed to be enjoyed in your home for years to come.
Most Wyoming Dogs Book Project participants choose to invest around $1,100 in their favorite portraits, though some spend less and some choose to invest more. Your total investment simply depends on how many images you love and how you would like to enjoy them.
Your registration fee includes participation in the project and your photography session, but it does not include printed artwork or digital files.
To give you an idea of investment:
• Tabletop Art begins at $349
• Signature Wall Art begins at $649
• Most families choose a Collection starting at $1,150, which includes artwork and matching digital files.
There is no obligation to purchase anything after your session. However, if you fall in love with your images (which most people do), you will have the opportunity to select artwork during your private reveal.
To help you feel fully informed before registering, I provide a complete pricing guide and product details so you know exactly what is available.
Thank you for your interest in participating in the charitable book project
Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State.
Tell Me About Your Dog.
Please complete the application below with as much detail as possible.
If you have more than one dog that you would like to participate, please include information about all of them on this application.
There are 35 sessions available. If more than 35 applications are received, they will be reviewed in the order they are received.
BY SUBMITTING THIS APPLICATION, YOU AGREE TO BE CONTACTED BY MARNI CHRISTENSEN PET PHOTOGRAPHY. YOUR INFORMATION WILL NEVER BE SHARED OR SOLD. NO REGISTRATION FEE IS DUE UPON SUBMITTING THIS APPLICATION AND IS ONLY REQUIRED SHOULD YOUR DOG(S) BE FORMALLY ACCEPTED FOR THIS PROJECT.
Because They Are Never With Us Long Enough
Dogs fill our lives with so much joy, and somehow, the years with them always pass too quickly. One day, we realize the puppy has a gray muzzle, the trail companion is moving a little slower, or the dog who once bounced through the house now prefers the warm patch of sunlight by the window.
Photographs become the way we hold onto those moments.
The Wyoming Dogs Book Project is a chance to celebrate your dog exactly as they are right now - their personality, their expressions, and the place they hold in your life - while also helping support animal shelters across Wyoming.
If your dog is part of your story, I would love to hear about them.
FAQ
My dog is crazy and doesn’t sit still. Will you still be able to get good photos?
Absolutely! This is the most common worry I hear, and please let it be the last thing on your mind! My sessions are designed to be fun, relaxed adventures, not strict obedience tests.
Most of the dogs I photograph are full of energy, and honestly, that’s where the fun happens. I have spent years working with shelter animals, so patience, timing, and a good sense of humor are part of every session.
We take breaks when needed for belly rubs, playing, or letting your dog explore and sniff around. Those relaxed moments are usually when the best expressions happen. With quick timing and a little experience, I’m able to capture joyful, personality-filled images even from the busiest pups.
My dog can’t be off-leash. Can we still get great photos?
Of course! In fact, most of the dogs I photograph outdoors are on leash because safety always comes first.
With a little Photoshop magic, I can remove the leash in the final images so it looks like your dog was enjoying a beautiful off-leash adventure.
Do I have to be in the photos?
Not at all. While the book focuses on the dogs, I always encourage owners to jump in for a few portraits if they are comfortable. The connection between people and their dogs is really what this project is all about, and those moments together often become the most meaningful images from the session.
If you would rather stay behind the scenes, that is perfectly fine too. I will focus on creating beautiful portraits that highlight your dog’s personality and spirit.
Can I include more than one dog?
Absolutely. If you have a multi-dog household, I invite them all to be part of the experience. They will share a signature double-page spread in the book, celebrating the beautiful life you share together.
How do we choose a location for the session?
Once you are selected for the project, we’ll discuss your dog’s personality and the kind of environment they feel most comfortable in. Some dogs love wide open spaces, while others do better in quieter areas with fewer distractions.
We can choose a scenic outdoor location, a favorite trail, or even your own property if you have a ranch. Wyoming offers some incredible backdrops, and I have several favorite spots that photograph beautifully.
The goal is to pick a location that feels authentic to your dog and your life together, so the photos truly reflect their story.
What happens if the weather is bad on our session day?
If we have steady rain, crazy Wyoming wind, or a snowstorm that would make the session uncomfortable or unsafe, we will absolutely reschedule. Your dog’s safety and comfort always come first.
Cloudy days are nothing to worry about, though. Overcast skies actually create beautiful, soft light that is perfect for portraits. I always keep a close eye on the forecast and will reach out ahead of time if it looks like we need to adjust our plans.
What should we wear for our session?
If you plan to be in a few of the photos, I recommend wearing comfortable clothing in neutral or earthy tones that complement Wyoming’s natural landscapes. Colors like blues, greens, grays, tans, and soft earth tones photograph beautifully and help keep the focus on you and your dog.
It’s best to avoid busy patterns, large logos, or bright neon colors that can distract from the connection between you and your pet.
After you are selected for the project, I will send a session preparation guide with helpful tips so you feel confident and ready for your session.
Do you photograph pets other than dogs?
While the limited-edition book Wyoming Dogs: Portraits from the Cowboy State focuses specifically on dogs, I’m happy to capture portraits of your entire pet family during the session.
Other pets in your immediate household are absolutely welcome to join the session. Cats, horses, and other beloved companions are part of many Wyoming families, and I love documenting those connections too. Those images can be turned into beautiful wall art, albums, or other custom pieces for your home.
Are digital files included with the registration fee?
The $195 registration fee covers your place in the book, your session experience, and the design and creation of the book itself. Artwork and digital files are purchased separately during your gallery reveal, after your session.
When you choose custom artwork such as wall art, a folio box, or an album, the matching high-resolution digital files are included as my gift to you. This way you get the best of both worlds: beautiful, tangible artwork for your home and the digital files to keep and share.
What are my options for displaying and enjoying the photographs from my session?
Your dog’s portraits deserve more than just living on a phone. They are meant to be enjoyed as artwork in your home, and I offer beautiful ways to showcase them.
Handcrafted Folio Boxes
A modern and versatile way to keep a collection of your favorite images right on your coffee table. The matted prints can be displayed in the box or framed later, whenever you want a fresh look.
Signature Fine Art Albums
A professionally designed book with thick, matte pages that tell the full story of your session through beautiful, seamless spreads.
Custom Framed Wall Art
Museum-quality framed prints and canvases designed to turn your favorite portrait into a statement piece for your home.
During your private gallery reveal, we’ll look through your images together and explore these options. I’ll help you visualize how each piece will look in your space so you can choose what feels perfect for your home.
What if I only want a few digital photos?
I completely understand wanting digital files for sharing online or keeping in your personal collection.
My studio focuses on creating beautiful printed artwork that can be enjoyed every day in your home. Because I believe so strongly in the power of a printed portrait, every piece of wall art, folio box, or handcrafted album you purchase includes its matching high-resolution digital file at no additional cost.
This way you get the best of both worlds: stunning artwork to enjoy in your home and the digital files to keep and share.
If you prefer to purchase only digital files, they are also available separately.
Meet Your Photographer
Photographer • Animal Lover • Magic-Maker
Hi, I’m Marni. If you are worried that your dog might be too energetic, too shy, or just too "dog" for a photo session, you are in the right place. I am an award-winning pet and family photographer, Photoshop artist, and your go-to for capturing joyful, heartfelt moments that make you smile every time you see them. My sessions are all about connection and comfort. I create a relaxed, playful environment where pets and people can just be themselves, and that’s when the magic happens.
After the session, I lovingly enhance each photo to bring out the details that matter most. Whether it's a sparkle in the eye or a perfectly timed tail wag, I make sure every image feels extra special.
You may have seen my work through the Red Desert Humane Society, Rock Springs Animal Control, or Casper Humane Society, where I volunteer my time to photograph adoptable pets and help them find forever homes. I bring that same heart and dedication to every session I do.
If you're looking for beautiful, meaningful portraits of your pet (and maybe a few of you together, too), I’d be honored to work with you. Let’s create something unforgettable.