I belong to HeartsSpeak, an organization that encourages photographers to help shelter pets find their new homes by having the animals become visible through imagery. On July 13, HeartsSpeak, Los Angeles County Animal Care Centers, Rita Earl Photography and Shelter Me embarked on a unique collaboration called Seen=Saved Los Angeles that enabled every single adoptable animal in the LA County shelters to be photographed by 200 photographers. And for that weekend, adoption fees were waived!

I immediately signed up when it was announced, I was so excited. I've photographed many adoptable animals in the past and my hope, along with everyone else's hope, is that the images would help these animals get adopted.

My assignment was at the Lancaster Animal Shelter. Lancaster is about an hour north of me so no problem. When I arrived, I was given a packet of animals to photograph and assigned Carmen, a volunteer, who helped wrangle the animals. I brought along battery operated lights and a portable backdrop stand in purple.

We photographed for about three hours in 106 degree heat. It was hot, I'm not kidding. I was drenched. But I photographed 14 cats and kittens and one dog. Some of my assignments were in the infirmary and could only be photographed inside their cages.

In all, about 1200 animals were photographed in seven county shelters. We were in Downey, Baldwin Park, Lancaster, Carson, Palmdale, Castaic and Agoura care centers. I think anyone who participated felt they contributed a small part in improving these animals' lives. I know I did and it is my wish that they all find their forever homes with kind, loving owners. Here are some the images from Saturday.