Four Legged Friends Photography ~ Kris Dorst
Copyright (C) 2007 Kris Dorst. All Rights Reserved
About Kris
Degrees, Certificates, Training
Bachelor of Science ~ University of Arizona with Equine Specializaton Certified Equine Massage Therapist Gary Whitting Trainer for a Day ~ Sea World Monte Roberts Seminar Training
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I believe my love of nature came from growing up in two
of the most beautiful places in the U.S.~ Jackson Hole
Wyoming and San Diego ,California. I found my
connection to animals at a very early age preferring
horseback riding over surfing or skiing. My childhood
summers and holidays were spent watching the moose and
deer eat in my grandparents front yard and the eagles fly
over their house. The rest of the year was spent living
near the ocean and watching the dolphins and whales
swim as I played on the beach. These experiences may be
the reason I find seeing animals in a contained
environment unsettling.
My love for animals in their own environment continues to
this day and I believe it has encouraged me to pursue my
photography in a more unique manner.
I was fortunate enough to have family that understood,
supported, and encouraged my childhood love of animals.
They presented me with every opportunity possible to
enhance that connection. Trips & classes to San Diego
Zoo and its zoo school, trips to the Wild Animal Park,Sea
World, Marina De Rey Aquarium, Living Desert
Breathtaking canoe rides and picnics in the Grand Teton
National Park. All encouraged and supported my love of
animals and the beauty that surrounds them. It was here
my passion fir capturing these experiences on film, began.
As life progressed a move to Austin,Texas brought horses
into the center of my world. I began studying their ability
to connect with us and my desire to be able to capture
that connection on film began to increase. High school
brought the beginning of my formal training in
photography. While my Bachelors degree is in Animal
Science my photography courses were far more fascinating.
Professors were both challenging and encouraging.
Questioning weather of not I would be able to keep up
with the class due to a lack of equipment. (a college
student budget hardly provided for food much less
elaborate camera equipment) I compensated for the lack
of equipment by shear passion,determination and an
artist's eye. The same artistic approach I learned from my
grandfather, sculptor Virgil Goodman. Summers spent in
his studio in Jackson gave me an inherent understanding
of balance, creativity and design. I hope my work stands
as a tribute to his love and guidance. AND yes my
professors were surprised and gracious enough to
encourage my career as a photographer.
Time spent in Europe surrounded by amazing architecture
and art enhanced my desire to create through photography.
NOW you probably know more about me than you
wanted to but I hope this helps you understand when I
come into your home or barn I begin with a realization of
how much you love your pet and how connected they are
to you.
Capturing that special bond is my greatest focus.
Monte Roberts & I at the end of seminar training
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Court yard in Europe
My Grandparents front yard
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Associations I Have Been Happy to Donate Time & Energy
Guide Dogs of the Desert ~ Palm Springs Ca F.A.I.R Tucson, AZ P.A.C..C. Tucson, AZ Save the Whales ~ San Diego, Ca ( Adopt a whale program) Horseman's Association ~ U of A (President 2003) Southern Arizona Blood Bank for Animals Humane Society of Southern Arizona No More Homeless Animals Concert
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I will be freelancing for the Desert Dog News Watch for my articles in coming issues.
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Training at Sea World in San Diego
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