About Kathleen Riley Photography

Specializing in animals and the people who love them

Hi, I'm Kathleen Riley—photographer, storyteller, and lifelong animal enthusiast. I'm a Minnesota transplant now happily settled in the Twin Cities with my husband, David, and our pack: Minnow the Chinook, Fluffy the Vampire Labrador, and our newest pup, Mick the Chinook. My life really is a dog-and-pony show—and I wouldn't have it any other way. 

For more than 30 years, I've been photographing dogs, horses, people, and the adventures that connect them. Whether it's a quiet moment with a beloved senior pup, the boundless joy of a youngster, or the bond between you and your animals, my goal is to capture their true personality in images you'll treasure for a lifetime.

My Photography Journey

I've been honored to see my work displayed everywhere from homes and veterinary clinics to schools, restaurants, corporate offices, and national publications. I've photographed for Town Planner, where my firetruck image won 2nd place nationally for Best Cover Shot in 2019. My work has also been featured in various outlets, including The AKC Gazette, The National Dog Show (NBC), The German Shepherd Dog Review, The Canine Chronicle, Chronicle of the Horse, The Equine Chronicle, and many more. 

And honestly? One of my favorite things is seeing my photos appear as someone's profile picture on social media—that always makes me smile.

My Approach

Photography with me is fun, relaxed, and all about celebrating your animals. We'll work together to create artwork that shows their spirit—whether they're mischievous youngsters or wise gray-muzzled companions. I shoot fast, keep the energy light, and make sure the experience is as memorable as the photos themselves. 

Want to get a feel for my style? Check out my Portfolio Galleries or watch this slideshow to get to know me better. Let's dream up something beautiful together! 

Behind the Lens

I've been a Canon shooter since 1981 and am a proud member of Canon Professional Services (CPS). My field gear includes:

• Canon R6i
• Canon R6ii (2 bodies - our go-to on the Riley Photo team!)
• Canon 5Diii (2 bodies - they're old, but excellent workhorses)
• Canon 5D (a dinosaur, but still going strong)
• Canon 70D
• Canon AE1 Program (film classic)
• Canon Pro Lenses (my favorite: 70–200 f/2.8)
• ProMaster filters
• GoPro for video/underwater
• Tripods - all are hand-me-downs, and I'm grateful for the generosity
• And yes, my trusty iPhone 13 (because the best camera is the one you have with you).

Let's Create Together

Every pet has a story, and every bond deserves to be celebrated. Whether you want portraits of your dog, horse, or the whole family, I'd love to work with you to create timeless images that reflect your journey together.

👉 Contact Me to start planning your session. Let's capture the moments you'll cherish for years to come.

Published in the following select media  
The AKC Gazette -- The National Dog Show -- NBC Thanksgiving Day Dog Show -- The German Shepherd Dog Review -- Animal Talent Pool -- Pleasure Horse -- Just Right Pet Food -- PleasureHorse.com -- Show Sight Magazine -- Top Notch Toys -- Minnesota Pinto Horse Association -- DogFoodDirect.com -- SeattlePI -- PetFoodEtc.com -- San Francisco Gate -- PetExtras -- ChewMyAntlers.com -- Horse Country -- Northern Racer -- Yahoo Travel -- Minneapolis Star-Tribune -- The Canine Chronicle -- The Equine Chronicle -- Chronicle of the Horse -- Pet Stuff Minnetonka -- Disabled Outdoors Magazine -- Dog News -- The Camden Press -- Twin City Tails -- Stevens Point Journal -- Lakeshore Press -- Sun-Current -- Town Planner -- Northstar Pet Supply -- Ridgeview Medical Center -- International Wolf Center -- Sun Sailor -- Lake Country Magazine -- Mesabi Daily News -- Hot Spots & Fun Stops -- Artworks -- City of Minneapolis --Extremely Minnesota -- Dotted Lines -- The Leader -- Midwest Canine Times -- Minnesota Extension Service -- Camden News -- North News -- Eagle Pet Products -- Minneapolis & Saint Paul Home Tour -- Minnesota Master Naturalist -- Knight Errant -- The Poop -- SBMG -- Huffington Post -- Mother Nature Network -- Pi Sigma Epsilon -- Patch.com --