A Circus for the Animals.

an LASPCA Fundraiser

Back in October I spent a Saturday photographing one of the more fun events I’ve covered in a while — a circus-themed fundraiser for the LASPCA.

The entire day had a playful energy to it. Stilt walkers wandered through the crowd, performers balanced on unicycles, and families moved between games, drinks, and food stands while rescue dogs soaked up every bit of attention they could get.

Events like this are some of my favorite to photograph because the moments happen everywhere at once. A performer might be entertaining a crowd on one side of the grounds while, ten feet away, someone is quietly meeting a dog they might end up taking home.

There were plenty of highlights throughout the afternoon.

The Lost Bayou Ramblers brought their unmistakable Louisiana sound to the stage, and later The Original Pinettes Brass Band rolled through with a second line that instantly turned the entire event into a street party.

Between the music, the performers, and the constant stream of dogs looking for scratches and treats, the day felt like a perfect mix of celebration and community.

It was one of those assignments where you look up at the end of the day and realize you’ve been smiling behind the camera the whole time.