About Monique
My Story
As a child, I wasn’t just the fly on the wall, I say I was the shadow of the fly on the wall. Cripplingly shy, I found comfort in standing back and watching quietly. When I discovered photography, it gave me the perfect hiding spot: behind the camera.
For years I photographed my own kids, the patients at the veterinary hospital I managed, and eventually clients. The camera became my shield, my way of being part of moments without having to be seen myself.
But everything changed in 2015.
That’s when I started livestreaming adoptable dogs and teaching other photographers. Suddenly, I wasn’t invisible anymore, I had to step in front of the lens, use my voice, and share my perspective. What started as a way to help animals find homes and support fellow creatives became something much bigger: the realization that showing up is what creates connection.I used to hide in the background. Now I help others shine in the foreground.
Who I Work With
Today I work with two kinds of people.
Businesses and entrepreneurs who know they need to be visible but feel nervous, awkward, or overwhelmed by the idea of photos or video and families who want to celebrate their whole family, pets included, in a way that feels fun, relaxed, and genuinely them.
Silver Paw Studio exists to normalize and celebrate the glorious, imperfect lives we actually live with open arms and a healing heart where everyone feels like they truly belong and are worthy of being seen.
What Working Together Looks Like
Most people show up a little nervous. Most pets do too. By the end, everyone is having too much fun to remember why.
Every session starts with a planning conversation so I understand exactly what you’re hoping to walk away with. The session itself is designed to feel relaxed and low-pressure, not a production. Afterward, you’ll have a reveal experience where you see your finished images and choose what comes home with you.
For businesses, that means testimonial videos, branding photography, and content you can actually use to connect with your audience and build trust. For families, it means portraits that feel like the best day ever, not another item on the to-do list.
After more than two and a half decades behind the camera, I’ve learned that the real magic isn’t in the gear or the perfect pose. It’s in helping people feel comfortable, confident, and ready to be seen. Because when you feel good, it shows.
Why Clients Trust Silver Paw Studio
- 13+ years serving Northern Colorado families and businesses
- Member, Professional Photographers of America (PPA)
- Fully insured with professional liability coverage for every session
- Featured Speaker, Founded in FOCO Business Conference
- Creator and Instructor, Win-Win-Win Marketing Testimonial Masterclass
- Photography educator for over a decade
- Animal Friends Alliance Business P.A.W. Award recipient
- HABIC Community Partner Award (2019)
- Fort Collins Cat Rescue Above & Beyond Award (2019)
“She is an expert at capturing the emotions of both dog and human.”
– Whitney Temple
Values and Vision
At Silver Paw Studio, we promise to:
Camp in curiosity
With an approach of wonder and “what if,” believing everything is figureoutable.
Lead with warmth and presence
Grounded, genuine, and fully present.
Embody the spirit of creativity
Bringing playfulness and lightness to every problem, process, and possibility.
Prioritize inclusivity
We believe the world is full of beautiful variety. In our space, everyone belongs.
Be in service
Giving through sharing wisdom, leadership, volunteering, and collaboration.
Vision statement
Silver Paw Studio exists to normalize and celebrate our glorious lives with open arms and a healing heart, where everyone I encounter feels like they truly belong and are worthy of being seen giving people the courage to shine bright and be unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you insured?
Are you a member of any professional organizations?
Yes. Monique is a member of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), held to a standard of excellence, ethics, and continued education. To learn more about Monique’s credentials, see the about page.
How do I get started?
Every great experience starts with a conversation. Reach out through the contact form and Monique will take it from there.