I love dogs. On assignment in 2000, I was sent to the Savage River Lodge in western Maryland
to document the forest for a trail guide. While at the lodge I met a dog with a
remarkable interest in posing for the camera. I found out that my canine model,
Bodhi, had developed his lens-loving skills by jumping in front of any family or
group photos being set up in his vicinity. I immediately fell in love. Mike Dreisbach,
Bodhi's "dad", saw the potential of teaming Bodhi, a real ham, with me, a creative
and enthusiastic photographer, and in 2004 we published our first Bodhi Lodge Dog
calendar. It was a hit.
After four years of publishing calendars, we are expanding with a book* that
has been nationally released so more people can benefit from Bodhi's entertaining
antics and healing energy. I began this latest project by photographing Bodhi
and his friends in various poses and settings in and around the lodge. Being able
to capture the true spirit of Bodhi has helped bolster his reputation as not only the
Savage River Lodge Dog but also as a year 'round goodwill ambassador.
True to his name, Bodhi, now 12, continues to "enlighten" everyone he encounters
at the Savage River Lodge and entertain them with his ready-for-the-camera antics.
Most likely, you'll find Bodhi hanging out on the front porch, greeting guests with a
wag of the tail, and chasing that next photographic opportunity.
Ever since I was a kid, I couldn't resist
petting any friendly dog that crossed my path, even at the risk of an
asthma attack, which often ensued. Little wonder that when I grew
up I found a way to blend my love for animals and the outdoors with
my artistic abilities by becoming a nature photographer.
*For more information about Bodhi or to order Bodhi
by Middleton Evans,
visit www.ravenwoodpress.com
or call 410 877.2432 / 800 807.1079.
