The Photographer Who Speaks Dog.
Miguel’s path to success is far from ordinary. What started as a career in professional dog training eventually blossomed into a unique calling as a celebrated canine photographer. His photographic approach is a masterful blend of simplicity and intuition, crafting images that are more than photographs—they’re visual stories that honor each dog’s unique anatomy, behavior, and breed characteristics, captured through minimal gear and the transformative power of natural light.
Beyond Photography: A Unique Photographic Approach
What sets Miguel apart is his extraordinary ability to anticipate and capture fleeting canine moments that other photographers miss. Unlike traditional photographers who simply document dogs, Miguel decodes their language in real-time, predicting movement, emotion, and energy before they fully manifest. His background in animal behavior transforms each photoshoot into a dynamic dialogue, where his deep understanding of canine psychology allows him to create images that are not just photographs but profound narratives. Whether he’s capturing a split-second of a working dog’s intense focus or the subtle emotional nuance of a show dog’s stance, Miguel’s lens becomes an extension of his behavioral expertise—revealing layers of personality that remain invisible to the untrained eye. This rare combination of technical precision and intuitive understanding has earned him a reputation as more than a photographer but as a visual translator of the canine experience.
An Unordinary Journey
Born and raised in South America, Miguel’s fascination with canine behavior started with a personal challenge: managing Mac, his aggressive German Shepherd. When his mother gave him an ultimatum—control the dog or give him up—Miguel discovered a natural talent for decoding complex canine behaviors. His skill as a handler flourished during his college years, propelling him into the elite sphere of purebred dogs, where he earned certification as an animal behaviorist and built a career training show dogs professionally. After moving to the United States, he discovered a passion for professional dog photography, drawing inspiration from equine photographers. His unique approach captures the spirit of dogs, presenting a comprehensive and authentic portrayal of canine diversity. Miguel’s work quickly caught the attention of major brands, kennel clubs, private owners, breeders and trainers.
Professional Milestones and Critical Acclaim
Today, Miguel is a trailblazer in professional dog photography. His portfolio includes collaborations with leading brands such as Nestlé Purina, Mars, and The American Kennel Club, as well as features in *The New York Times*, CNN, and NBC. He has photographed over 200 breeds, establishing himself as the go-to artist/storyteller and one of the highly trusted dog whispers for capturing the true essence of these special human companions and partners. One of Miguel’s most celebrated achievements is the permanent installation of his work at the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog in New York City. This milestone showcases his extraordinary ability to connect with and understand dogs on a profound level, bringing their personalities to life through the art of photography.
In 2013, *Dog Fancy Magazine* honored him as one of the world’s best photographers.
Giving Back and Continuing Quest
Beyond his artistic achievements, Miguel has shown a commitment to giving back. His company has raised over $300,000 for animal-focused charities, including the AKC Canine Health Foundation and the Center for Human-Animal Interaction at Virginia Commonwealth University. With a portfolio spanning over 200 dog breeds and more than 30 years of experience, Miguel continues to embark on a quest to reveal the unique story of each dog he photographs. Whether he’s shooting a prize-winning show dog, a commercial campaign, or a high-fashion editorial, his work combines technical precision with emotional depth, earning the trust of elite professionals, dog lovers, and enthusiasts around the world.
