The Photographer Who Captured Flip’s Soul Is Changing How the World Sees Shelter Dogs
Before there was a book, a farm, or even a YouTube series called Sitting With Dogs, there was Flip—a rescued boxer who changed everything for Rocky Kanaka. Flip taught Rocky what it meant to earn a dog’s trust and inspired a mission to help fearful and forgotten dogs find hope again.
One of the most striking images of Flip, featured in Sitting With Dogs, was captured by Los Angeles photographer Christian Shenouda. The portrait is calm yet powerful, a perfect reflection of Flip’s spirit. For Shenouda, that photo represents more than artistic achievement. It embodies his belief that great photography can change the way people see shelter dogs—and sometimes, even save their lives.
From Rescue Roots to a Lifelong Mission
Thirteen years ago, Shenouda adopted a dog from a local rescue and began photographing him just for fun. That simple act changed everything. “He inspired me to volunteer taking photos at shelters to help homeless dogs get adopted,” he recalls.
Since then, Shenouda has spent countless hours behind the lens at shelters such as East Valley Animal Shelter in Los Angeles, offering professional portraits to dogs who need help being noticed. What started as volunteer work has grown into a full-time photography business built around his passion for animals.
Elevating Shelter Photography into Art
Shenouda’s approach is rooted in the belief that every dog deserves to be seen as more than a statistic. His sessions often happen outdoors or in natural light, giving each portrait a sense of authenticity. “It always starts with a brief, a subject, and a location,” he says. “The rest is finding that moment that feels like them.”
His blend of fine art composition and candid realism helps reveal each dog’s unique personality. The results are images that feel intimate rather than posed, giving adopters a glimpse of who these dogs really are.
Inspiration from Unexpected Places
Shenouda’s work has attracted attention from well-known animal lovers, including actress Hilary Swank, who began liking his dog portraits on Instagram. “If she’s watching, maybe I should make some cooler videos,” he joked. That encouragement led him to start a YouTube series capturing the behind-the-scenes antics that unfold during his shoots.
Another creative influence came from Rocky Kanaka, whose storytelling through video inspired Shenouda to document more of the dogs’ personalities on camera. “People see the photos, but I wanted them to see more of the process,” he said. “Dogs do the funniest things when you just let the camera roll.”
The Power of a Picture
Today, Shenouda balances private commissions with his ongoing shelter work. Whether photographing a cherished family pet or a dog waiting behind kennel doors, his mission stays the same: to show every dog’s soul through art.
The image of Flip in Sitting With Dogs represents that philosophy perfectly. It captures not just a dog, but a presence, a story, and a legacy. For countless other dogs still searching for homes, Shenouda’s photographs offer something even greater—the chance to finally be seen.
About Christian Shenouda
Christian Shenouda is a professional canine portrait photographer based in Los Angeles, California. His work blends fine art and documentary styles to capture the true personality of dogs both in private homes and animal shelters. Christian volunteers his photography at shelters including East Valley Animal Shelter and others throughout Southern California to help homeless dogs get adopted. His images have been featured by fellow animal advocates such as Hilary Swank and Rocky Kanaka.
Follow his work on Instagram: @christianshenouda
Website: christianshenouda.com
