Fred Levy Photography

10/08/2026

I'm just hanging out at the studio waiting for my next client. Silly wide photo taken with Insta360 camera. Just for fun.

10/03/2026

Here is a nice share about my black dogs project.

What if the very thing that makes a black dog harder to photograph could also make them harder to notice?

That question inspired photographer Fred Levy to turn his camera lens toward black dogs.

After a conversation about the challenges black dogs can face in finding homes, Levy began the Black Dogs Project in 2014. The phenomenon is often referred to as “Black Dog Syndrome” or, particularly when referring to larger dogs, “Big Black Dog Syndrome” among animal rescuers.

While there is no scientific evidence proving that black dogs as a group are universally less likely to be adopted, many shelters and rescuers say they have observed potential adopters passing over black dogs—sometimes in favor of dogs with lighter or more distinctive coats.

Why? There could be several reasons.

Some believe outdated superstitions surrounding black animals may play a role. Others point to something much simpler: black dogs can be notoriously difficult to photograph well. Their dark fur can absorb light and make it harder to capture their expressions and features, especially in typical shelter photos.

And if an adoption photo doesn't immediately catch someone's eye, a dog may never get the chance to show them what a wonderful companion they could be.

Levy decided to change that by photographing black dogs against black backgrounds in his studio, creating dramatic, high-quality portraits that showcase their individual personalities and beauty.

“I decided to start a photo series photographing black dogs on a black background in my studio,” Levy wrote. “Using social media, I’ve been recruiting local dog owners who have black dogs to photograph.”

What began as a photography project became something more: a way to make people stop, look twice and see the dog—not simply the color of their coat.

“It’s an amazing journey…” Levy wrote.

And through his lens, these beautiful black dogs are finally getting the attention they deserve.

📷

,

-----
*Every like, comment, and share reminds us that dogs and the humans who care for them matter. If you’d like to us continue researching and posting these stories, please follow us.

10/02/2026

This Sunday from 10-2, I’ll be taking FREE photos in support of Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue in Lexington, MA at Revolution Hall - 3 Maguire Rd. Bring your dog, sign up, and I’ll take some fun photos. You’ll pick your favorite and the team from Mark Lesses Group will be send it out to you.

10/02/2026

Now that Instagram can put photos in the comments, I’d love to see your dogs. Tell me something special about your black dog on

10/01/2026

Happy national black dog day. It’s a great day to start of my favorite month.

09/28/2026

What a great puppy in the studio. Well, not quite a puppy but all the energy of one. This kind of dog can be so hard to shoot. Especially against a black background. The tight curls just absorb light so getting them lit without blowing out the background takes some work. I think they came out great and she ended up with a beautiful aluminum print. They came to my Monday mini sessions I offer once a month. See my site for more information. It’s a great entry into working with me.

09/24/2026

is one of my favorite models. He knows how great he is, but he shares the love with everyone. If you're lucky, you can catch him at testing the latest treats. A Radar sighting is a sign of good luck! If you see him, share photos on my IG page.

09/23/2026

My studio is in Littleton, MA, but I travel all over to create beautiful family portraits, even to your home. If you're concerned about reactive dogs or you want your home to be the background, it's a great option to get beautiful photos. Schedule your session today.

09/22/2026

My wife always said, "The days are long but the years are short". When your family includes your dog, that is doubly true. Every year can be so much change that it just slips by. Beautiful photography can make that memory matter. It's more than just a photograph. It's a family heirloom.

09/21/2026

Fall is such a great time to get out and get beautiful photographs of your pets. The season seems to fly by so fast. If you're interested in scheduling a session, please reach out today. Fall will be here and gone before you know it. Let's capture what makes your dog special.