Pawfiles Portraists of Dogs: A Bark and Smile Book by Kim Levin

Synopsis

In what other book of portraiture will you find a model bio that includes "chases rats and pigeons" followed by "loves filet mignon and crİme br"lİe"?

Welcome to the dog-centric world of photographer Kim Levin. Nearly a decade ago, Levin began shooting photos of dogs (and occasionally cats) in and around Central Park. What began as a dog-loving photographer's hobby has blossomed into a successful career as a pet portrait artist nonpareil. With nine books of dog photos to her credit and a booming portrait business, Levin has become a virtual Avedon for the pet set.

Pawfiles is filled with portraits by turns charming, touching, and goofy. Each dog's mini-portfolio is accompanied by its stats (age, breed, and home) and a short but revealing "about the model" statement. About Oliver, a 2-year-old English bulldog, we learn of a Beanie Baby obsession. Simone, a 7-year-old poodle, is described as "airhead by day and tramp by night," and Max, a 12-year-old border collie, "enjoys butt rubs"żbut, then, who doesn't?

This hard-to-resist book is sure to elicit the same two-part response from all dog lovers: 1) I need this on my coffee table, and 2) My dog should be in the sequel.

Biography

Kim Levin specializes in pet portraiture. Her company, Bark & Smile Pet Portraits, combines her passion for photography and her love of dogs. Kim has appeared on Animal Planet and her work has been featured in Reader's Digest. She donates her photography services to the ASPCA and other animal welfare organizations. She lives with her husband (and sometime co-author), John O'Neill, and their son, daughter, and dog in New Jersey.