I have always had a special relationship with animals. As a child I would bring home lost dogs and injured birds constantly. It wasn't a surprise to anyone that I found my first job at a veterinary clinic. While working there in high school, my love and appreciation for animals - and the people who helped them - grew into a passion.

One day, an injured stray terrier was brought into the vet clinic. She was shy, in a lot of pain, and all alone. Over the following days, I slowly gained her trust, she recovered from her injuries, and I fell in love. Annie was my first adoption. Helping her gain confidence to become the playful, cuddly, and trusting dog who ventured to college with me solidified my commitment to rescuing dogs.

Receiving my degree in Fine Arts Photography at Ohio University allowed me to start my own studio, Harmony Designs Photography, in 2004 in Nashville, TN. As a big believer in volunteer work, I have since partnered closely with Agape Animal Rescue for the past 13 years by offering several annual fundraising events to benefit the rescue: Luv My Dog Day, Emma's Senior Dog Project, Frosty Paws, and Country Chic Canines. In addition, I regularly photograph the rescued dogs who are up for adoption through Agape to help them find their forever homes more quickly.

All my doggie family members have come from Agape. Indigo "Indy" (Boxer/Mountain dog mix) was my first foster "fail" who was soon followed by Truffle (French Bulldog and puppy mill rescue), and lastly, Rumor (Basenji mix) to become members of the family. My dachshunds, Pixel and Fable, have become little "studio assistants" and inspired the logo for Harmony Designs Photography. They both melted my heart during their puppy photo shoots my studio. Adopted kitty sister, Thistle, even volunteers her time socializing with the adoptable puppies.
- April Hollingsworth

Creating Dog-ged Devotion has been a labor of love and a true joy! It is a privilege to be able to blend my passion for fine art photography with my passion for dog rescue.

the photographer

Truffle, Rumor, Fable, Pixel, and Indy