Each month, I host a Foster Photo Day as a free resource to help local fosters and rescues have access to professional imagery to help their pups be seen (and hopefully) adopted.

The goal is to give harder to adopt pups, such as the ones listed below, an edge in standing out among the millions of animals available for adoption.

These dogs are usually, but not always:

Older (usually 3 years of age or older)
Might have medical needs
Potentially have some kind of behavioral issues, like reactivity or needing to be the only pet
Are a restricted breed, like bully breeds
Are black in color (Black dogs are much less likely to get adopted in the shelter in a very common phenomenon called Black Dog Syndrome)
Or have just been overlooked for one reason or another
Have been in foster for a significant period of time; typically months, if not, years

Since the inception of this program back in October of 2021, we’ve photographed well over 300+ pups in foster across the Triangle through multiple rescues.

If you’d like to learn more about Foster Photo Day or register your own foster, you can do so here. This initiative is open to any and all rescues across the Triangle that have dogs in foster that need professional imagery at no cost.

If you want to learn more about our Mission to help reduce animal overpopulation and homelessness in our state, read more about that here.

You can also support our Rescue Photography with a monetary contribution or pick up something for the pups off of our Rescue Photography Wishlist!

Without further ado, here are the adorable pups I had the pleasure to meet and photograph as part of our November Foster Photo Day! Feel free to share their profile or this post with anyone you know that might be looking to adopt.

Want to give more visibility to your business and help dogs in need? Consider becoming a Rescue Lens Collective Business Sponsor. Learn more about our new rescue sponsorship program here.y-sponsorship

MEADOW - CRISISDOGS NC

About Meadow’s Breed:
Hound mixes are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and adventurous spirit. They often thrive with plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation, excelling in homes where they can be part of daily life. Meadow embodies these qualities, bringing both energy and affection to those around her. With her athletic build, sharp mind, and deep bond with her people, she’s the perfect partner for an active family who loves to get outdoors.

Meadow’s Story & Personality:
Meadow is a vibrant, athletic pup with a dramatic coat that fades from glossy black to warm brown around her ears and legs. She’s almost housebroken, fully crate trained, and leash trained, but still working on building self-confidence. Meadow bonds quickly with her people and looks to them for direction and approval. She’s playful, curious, and incredibly smart – the kind of dog who will thrive with puzzle feeders, training games, and new adventures.

Meadow is a super playful companion. She’s a chewer at times, but responds well to gentle correction. Meadow is still growing, a bit thin, and learning the ropes of home life – but her potential is limitless. With patience, structure, and plenty of exercise, she will blossom into a devoted lifelong companion.

Meadow’s Ideal Home:

Another playful dog companion
A physically active family to match her energy level
Fenced yard for safe play and exercise
Willingness to continue her training and build her confidence
Older kids (12+) who can handle her playful puppy energy

MEET MEADOW

KING - WAKE COUNTY ANIMAL CENTER

Zoom! Zoom! Did you see that dog racing by? Or did you miss him because he was so fast? It's just King doing his zoomies around the yard! King loves to run around the yard at full speed to burn off his energy. But he also loves to snuggle on the couch with you. He will lay down right next to you and give you his sweet dog kisses! King plays well with other dogs. In foster, he has two foster dog friends (male and female) that he enjoys playing with, and he definitely keeps things lively in his foster house. He loves playing with his toys, his favorite is a peanut butter filled kong. Because of his energetic play style, King is not the best fit for small kids.

This handsome boy needs some time to warm up to new people, but once he's comfortable, his playful, sweet side shines through.

He is also fully potty trained and crate trained. In his foster home, when left alone he happily plays with his toys and is not destructive. This smart boy knows sit and down, and takes treats gently. He is also currently in training to learn to become more self confident. Since he loves running around the yard so much, it may be best for him to have a home with a backyard where he can run. Ready for a fun, loving, and cuddly companion? King's got the crown (and the kisses) to make you feel like royalty!

MEET KING

MIA - WAKE COUNTY ANIMAL CENTER

Athena is a big dog in a smaller body who still has lots of playful zest despite being a senior! She’s had a rough journey—twice surrendered through no fault of her own when her families moved—and now she’s looking for a forever home that’s truly forever. Athena can be a bit anxious with new people and unfamiliar places, but with patience, love, and a few tasty treats, she’ll warm up and shower you with loyalty and affection. She thrives in a calm, predictable environment and loves routine. Once she bonds, she’s the kind of dog who will be your devoted best friend.

MEET MIA

HARLEY - CRISISDOGS NC

Harley is a sweet, soulful 4-year-old Terrier mix with a gentle heart and cautious nature. Weighing just 22 lbs, he’s the perfect size for cuddles and quiet companionship. Though shy and slow to warm up, Harley blossoms into a devoted shadow dog once he feels safe—always happiest curled up on the couch or nestled close to his person.

About Harley’s Breed:
Terriers were originally bred to be clever, brave, and tenacious, and Harley has inherited their sharp mind and loyalty—but in a much softer, more sensitive package. Terrier mixes often bond deeply with their people, and Harley is no exception. While some terriers are high-energy, Harley is mellow and calm indoors, with occasional playful bursts when the mood strikes. He is thoughtful, observant, and truly shines in a stable environment where he can build trust at his own pace.

Harley’s Personality & Progress:
Harley is house-trained, crate-trained, and has excellent manners—no chewing, no accidents, and he sleeps peacefully through the night. He prefers quiet nature walks to busy neighborhoods and enjoys time in peaceful, enclosed outdoor spaces. He is reactive to some dogs and sudden noises, but he’s made wonderful progress with redirection and positive reinforcement.

Because of his reactivity and occasional anxiety (especially when left alone), Harley needs a patient, experienced adopter who understands how to manage a sensitive dog. Once he trusts you, Harley will give you his whole heart—he’s not just looking for a home, but for someone to belong to.

Harley’s Ideal Home:

Calm, quiet environment
No small children
Good as a solo dog, or with another dog with similar energy
Secure fenced yard preferred
Experienced, patient adopter willing to continue positive reinforcement training and offer routine and stability

MEET HARLEY