
4 minute read
Shining Through The Lens
TAILOR MAYDE DOG & PET PHOTOGRAPHY CAPTURES HOPE AND KINDNESS TO HELP BUFFALO AREA DOGS
Buffalo, a city known for its resilience and heart, is home to remarkable individuals who embody the spirit of the community. One such individual is Emily Allen, owner of Tailor Mayde Photography. With her lens, she illuminates the often-overlooked tales and tails that make Buffalo shine brighter. Her collaboration with Sweet Buffalo, a platform dedicated to spreading positivity, has been instrumental in highlighting the city’s inspiring narratives.
Sweet Buffalo’s Kimberly LaRussa says Emily “has been a blessing since the moment I met her. What started off as a partnership in taking photos of shelter dogs to find them forever homes turned into so much more. Emily often asks what she can do to help those we write about on Sweet Buffalo. Most recently she took photos of a teen in foster care with rescue puppies at her studio. His smile was priceless when he saw the photos for the first time. She also photographed a kangaroo visit for a young girl who is battling cancer. Emily has the most beautiful heart and that shines through in her photography.”


Emily lends her expertise to the Resurgence to the Rescue annual beer can contest to raise awareness for rescue animals. During the winter holiday season, Emily offers heartwarming holiday photo sessions in which people who donate a large bag of dog food receive a $50 discount off the session. Emily also donates a portion of session proceeds to area rescue organizations. Emily donates her time, services, and gift certificates to many Buffalo area organizations, animal and human, including police and fire departments.
LaRussa adds, “Emily is no amateur photographer. She has a talent like nothing I’ve seen before so the fact that she takes the time to volunteer to help animals–and people–is incredibly selfless. Through her photography she has been able to help raise thousands of dollars for homeless cats and dogs right here in Western New York.”

Emily’s motivation comes from a deep desire to make a difference. She says she shares her passion for pet photography with the community “because I can. It’s a way to give back, and it makes me feel good, and it makes a lot of people happy, so that makes me happy.” Emily’s artistic creativity finds expression in these various opportunities to spread joy. Each project becomes a canvas for her to craft something beautiful that resonates with people’s hearts.
Emily’s journey into pet photography began with a single dog as her subject. From that moment, she knew she had discovered her passion. Over the past five years, she has honed her skills, delving deep into the world of pets and their personalities. Her dedication shines through her pursuit of knowledge–attending conferences, investing in workshops, and upgrading her equipment. She understands the nuances of dog behavior, body language, and temperaments, ensuring every photograph captures the essence of her canine subjects. Her connection to dogs goes beyond professional pursuits. As a mother of two humans, she also shares her home with three mastiff mix rescues, two of whom are parvo survivors.


She fosters dogs through Awesome Paws Rescue. She says, “Dogs are something special. They make me incredibly happy. They make you incredibly happy. Witnessing genuine happiness... that’s why dogs are my specialty.”
Emily Allen’s journey as a photographer is not just about capturing images; it’s about capturing emotions, stories, and the spirit of a community. Through her lens, she highlights the power of compassion, showcasing how a single person’s dedication can make a profound impact. With her dedication, kindness, and artistry, Emily Allen is a shining example of Buffalo’s enduring
For more information, check out Emily’s blog at www.tmpphotos.com/blog