Fine art photographer Gray Malin has shifted his focus from idyllic destinations to posh pets in his new book “Gray Malin: Dogs.” The book features nearly two dozen dogs of various breeds and sizes posing in iconic locales in cities such as Beverly Hills, London, Paris, and New York. Malin dedicated the book to his late rescue dog Stella, creating a world where the dogs harmoniously blend with their surroundings. In Manhattan, he photographed dogs at the Plaza Hotel, Top of the Rock, Central Park, and Bergdorf Goodman, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks with furry companions.
Malin describes his canine models as consummate professionals who had to hold a pose for several seconds, requiring a lot of time and patience. Taking advantage of the relatively quiet summer of 2021 in the city due to travel restrictions, Malin was able to capture special images in empty streets and landmarks, giving a unique perspective to his work. His attention to detail and composition in each shot is evident as he carefully selected the settings and costumes for each dog, creating a cohesive and visually striking collection of photographs.
In Uptown, Malin staged six dogs outside The Plaza Hotel, overcoming challenges such as buses flying by and towering scaffolding to get the perfect shot. In Central Park, he captured eight dogs surrounded by food, with owners having to remove cheese to keep the dogs focused. Lucky moments such as a Border Collie holding a baguette in its mouth added charm and spontaneity to the images. Additionally, eight Dalmatians posed in front of Bergdorf Goodman, showcasing the city’s luxury and style with a touch of canine elegance.
High-pressure shoots such as nine pups at the Top of the Rock observation deck tested Malin’s skills as he had to work against the clock and coax the dogs to lie on neon folding beach chairs. Despite the chaos, Malin managed to capture unique and dynamic shots that highlight the energy and vibrancy of New York City. One of the standout images in the collection features several pups frolicking in a small pool at Rockefeller Center, showcasing a timeless and joyful moment that encapsulates the magic of New York and the bond between humans and their furry companions.
Gray Malin’s “Dogs” book offers a refreshing and playful take on his signature style, combining whimsy and sophistication in a delightful collection of images. By juxtaposing elegant dogs with iconic cityscapes, Malin creates a unique visual narrative that celebrates the bond between humans and animals while showcasing the beauty of urban environments. Each photograph tells a story, capturing the essence of each location while adding a touch of canine charm. With his meticulous attention to detail and creative vision, Malin elevates pet photography to new heights, inviting viewers to see familiar places through a fresh and playful lens.
