ABOUT CRIS - ALASKA DOG PHOTOGRAPHER
“They say the eyes are the window to the soul. But none can understand the importance of those proverbial words until you’re staring back into the nurturing gaze of a dog. It’s in that instant, you’ll realize the path of their journey intertwines with our fates. And they’re willing to walk beside us the entire way.”
~The Journey Photography by Cris
THE HEART OF THE JOURNEY
A Chocolate Lab named Cooper was the inspiration behind everything that The Journey Photography held dear to my heart. His comforting demeanor and exuberant enthusiasm for life were its driving force. There were no celestial bodies in the night sky that outshone his presence. His tenderhearted eyes were akin to a compass that always pointed true north. A roaring flame in the fireplace on a cold Alaskan night, along with Cooper’s eyes locked on mine — and that was all the stargazing I would ever need.
Cooper was not only my constant companion but my devoted medical alert service dog, walking beside me through life’s most fragile moments with unwavering awareness and care. I first picked up a camera to document our journey together — the quiet moments, the resilience, and the life we were learning to navigate side by side. What began as a way to hold onto those moments soon grew into something deeper.
Guided by the purpose Cooper instilled in me, I began photographing for dog rescues, using imagery to serve dogs in need and tell stories that mattered. A few years later, that purpose became The Journey Photography — a way to honor dogs, connection, and the paths we walk together.
In Loving Memory of Cooper
Cooper was my constant, my protector, and my devoted medical alert service dog – the soul behind The Journey Photography. We walked life side by side through its most fragile moments, his steady presence guiding me when the world felt uncertain. Losing him shattered me in ways words cannot hold, yet he continues to inspire everything I do. Every photograph, every story, is created with purpose and passion in his honor. Though he is no longer beside me, his love still leads the way — carried forward in every image, every journey, every quiet moment behind the lens. He is missed beyond measure, endlessly loved, and forever woven into my heart and my work.
Cooper
April 2012 – March 2024
My once in a lifetime… forever my always.
The Why Behind the Work
When I was diagnosed with a life-altering disease, a miracle manifested itself. A real-life guardian angel appeared — not with wings, but on four steady paws. Cooper became my medical alert service dog, often sensing changes in my body and surpassing modern medical equipment by as much as 20 minutes.
Our bond was deep, instinctual, and built on absolute trust. He was attuned to me in ways no technology ever could — reading the smallest shifts, the quiet moments others could not see. His presence gave me confidence, independence, and the ability to move through the world with courage instead of fear.
That level of awareness, patience, and devotion now lives at the core of how I photograph dogs. Through Cooper, I found the courage to chase dreams I once believed were out of reach. He never allowed my disability to define the limits of my life, standing beside me as I rebuilt confidence, purpose, and belief in myself. The Journey Photography exists because of him — and because he taught me resilience, presence, and how to become a better version of myself.
The Purpose That Guides Us
Dogs shape our lives in ways nothing else can. In their short time with us, they teach resilience — how to keep going when life is hard. They show devotion — steady, loyal, and unwavering. They remind us how to love without condition and how to find joy in the simplest moments: tail wags, muddy paws, spontaneous play, and living fully in the present.
Their lives move far too quickly, yet the impact they leave behind is immeasurable. The bond we share with a dog is built on trust, presence, and a quiet understanding that needs no words.
As an Alaska dog photographer, my purpose is to honor that bond. At The Journey Photography, every dog deserves to be seen, celebrated, and remembered for who they truly are — their spirit, their devotion, and their unique place in your life. Each session is approached with intention and care, creating thoughtfully captured and intricately edited images meant to be treasured for a lifetime.
Because dogs give us everything they have – and the least we can do is honor them well.
Cooper was my living proof.
SO, WITHOUT FURTHER ADO—LIGHTS… CAMERA… ACTION!
Photo Credit: Alicja Zmyslowska, amazing photographer, artist and friend.
CRIS SKINNER - ALASKA DOG PHOTOGRAPHER
Raised on a ranch, animals have always been part of Cris’s life, with dogs holding a central place in her heart. By working alongside respected dog trainers, Cris developed a strong understanding of canine psychology — knowledge she brings into every session. She is a firm believer in positive reinforcement training and applies it throughout her photography work. Her experience working in a veterinary clinic further strengthened her ability to read, respect, and respond to dogs with patience and care.
Cris created two deeply personal photography series honoring service and guide dogs — Beyond the Vest: “I Am Your Constant in the Chaos” and “I Am Your Calm in the Storm”. These heartfelt projects are close to her heart and reflect her work as an award-winning photographer. They have also been featured in both national and local media, helping amplify the devotion, intelligence, and life-changing impact of working dogs.
She is also the founder of The S.C.A.R.F. Project (Safe And Cozy Animal Rescue Friends), an annual fall photography initiative supporting Alaska-area dog rescues and shelters. Through this project, Cris uses photography as a way to give back, raise funds, and bring visibility to dogs in need.
In her free time, Cris enjoys nose work, agility, dock diving, obedience, and volunteering with nonprofit organizations throughout the Alaska community she calls home. A United States Marine veteran, Cris brings the values of integrity, compassion, and hard work into every part of her life and business. Her goal is simple and deeply personal — to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them.
SUPPORT STAFF
The Team Behind The Journey - Alaska Dog Photography
Behind the scenes, The Journey is supported by a dedicated family. Cris’s husband, a retired Army veteran with 22 years of service, provides steadfast support rooted in discipline, integrity, and commitment. Their adventurous daughter brings curiosity, joy, and a daily reminder that every journey is meant to be lived fully.
Rounding out the team are five devoted four-legged family members who proudly put their best paws forward each day. Their wagging tails, eager expressions, and joyful spirits serve as constant inspiration — and a reminder of why honoring dogs through meaningful photography matters so deeply.
Together, this team reflects the heart of The Journey Photography — a veteran-supported, family-owned Alaska dog photographer, rooted in service, guided by compassion, and deeply connected to dogs and the people who love them.
Photo: Our five, 4-pawed Staff Members at The Journey Photography by Cris
THE CANINE COMPANY CREDO
High-spirited sentiments drive us. We long to capture that one photograph that encompasses everything a dog makes us feel. A canine’s bright-eyed stare penetrates our souls while radiating waves of compassion. It’s a look we all know too well. The pupils of a pup have the capacity to flash an illuminating shine that fills a room with an adoring, besotted glare that tells you they’re smitten with everything about you.
Philosophical ruminations push us. We yearn to ensnare that one snapshot where time holds no sway on the present. Our furry friends only have a finite amount of time on this planet. So we desire to commemorate the occasion with a lasting depiction of their warmhearted nature. An affectionate portrayal of these benevolent beings is the least we could muster.
Exhilarating adventures stimulate us. We crave to seize that one flawless depiction of vitality inherent in all canines from birth, waiting to be animated on canvas. An immaculate picture doesn’t transpire supernaturally. It occurs by allowing a dog to bolt and streak through open space, a look of unadulterated euphoria instinctively within their smiles. It’s in that instant, all that enthusiasm, an overabundance of gusto, when a dog feels and looks the most alive, and we aim to secure that shot.
Nostalgic evocations compel us. We aspire to land that one image where we encapsulate the spiritual bond people share with pets. Each photo celebrates the tender, empathetic devotion that every dog bestows upon its human. We know all dogs go to heaven. But a friendly reminder that guardian angels are in our midst makes life a bit more bearable.
Altruistic nature propels us. We hunger to catch one intimate shot that articulates what each pet is thinking. A dog’s selflessness makes them the noblest of creatures. They honor us in all they do. Their love knows no bounds. While they may be unable to talk, a picture is worth a thousand words. So we give a voice to the voiceless.
Individual journeys define us. We seek to provide our patrons with picture-perfect pet photography. So we rely on each dog to pave the way. Their existence is a concerto on the backdrop of a great orchestra. They bark. They run. They jump. They play. And every photograph allows us to freeze a frame as they take center stage, granting a portion of life’s great enchantment while reveling in the fact that we’ve come along for the Journey.
LET'S TALK!
We’re here to answer any questions that might arise about Alaska dog photography. Would you like to discuss booking a session? Is there a fascinating element you would like to encompass in a shoot? Hit the button below, and we’ll be sure to assist you!