A high-fashion photographer uses his talents to break down stigmas, giving shelter dogs the ultimate photoshoot to help them find loving families.
A Different Kind Of Subject
In a world where shelter dogs are often overlooked, a single photograph can change everything.
For many pit bulls waiting in kennels, unfair stigmas and overwhelming shelter crises make finding a forever home in New Jersey incredibly difficult.
But one campaign is determined to change how people see these beautiful dogs, one flash of the camera at a time.
Trading The Runway For Rescue
Celebrity photographer Mike Ruiz is used to working with high-profile stars.
Known for his work on hit shows like “America’s Next Top Model” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” he knows exactly how to capture a subject’s best angle.
But recently, he decided to turn his spotlight onto a different kind of up-and-coming model: adoptable rescue dogs.
Love Without Labels
Mike teamed up with the Animal Farm Foundation for a special initiative called the Love Without Labels campaign.
The goal of these professional photo shoots is twofold: to break down the lingering stigma around pit bulls and to help them finally get adopted.
By showcasing their gentle and goofy personalities, the campaign aims to change the public’s perception of the breed.
America’s Next Top Adopted Dog
During a recent shoot, Mike focused his lens on two very special up-and-coming models named Carlos and Handsome.
When asked about Carlos’s potential on the runway, the experienced photographer had high praise.
“From my vast experience on ‘America’s Next Top Model,’ I think Carlos is a definite frontrunner to be America’s Next Top Adopted Baby Boy,” Mike joked.
A Kisser, Not A Fighter
Carlos proved to be a natural in front of the camera, showing off his sweet and affectionate nature.
He soaked up all the attention, proving that he was simply looking for someone to love.
As the crew noted during the shoot, Carlos’s whole demeanor seemed to say, “I’m a kisser, not a fighter.”
Star-Studded Support
The dogs weren’t the only stars on set that day.
Mike photographed Dolores Catania, the animal-loving “Real Housewife of New Jersey,” who was thrilled to be part of the project.
Broadway star Kelsie Watts also stepped in front of the lens, alongside a Dodo producer named Keren and her rescue pittie, Storm.
Tackling The Bigger Issues
The glamorous photo shoots are just one small part of a much bigger mission to help animals in need.
The Animal Farm Foundation is working tirelessly to create real change, tackling systemic issues like housing restrictions that unfairly target pet parents.
They are also funding pet food pantries and free spay and neutering initiatives to keep pets out of shelters and with the people who love them.
A Picture-Perfect Ending
This beautiful campaign has successfully led to adoptions in the past, giving dogs the second chances they deserve.
Now, the team has the exact same high hopes for Carlos and Handsome.
With their true hearts finally captured on camera, these sweet dogs are ready to step off the set and into the loving homes they have been waiting for.