Highlands, Hikes, and One Handsome Spaniel

There are hikes—and then there’s this one. When we decided to photograph dogs at the summit above the Uath Lochans, I didn’t quite realize I’d be scaling a mountain. (This Florida girl wasn’t exactly conditioned for a 965-foot elevation gain.) But when we reached the top? Whew. Worth. Every. Step.

The view was unreal—four sparkling lochs below, hugged by the ancient pines of Glenfeshie Forest, with the Cairngorms rising in the distance. It’s no wonder this ridge is one of Scotland’s most photographed vistas.

And right at the center of it all? Tai.

A Spaniel in His Element

A soulful Cocker Spaniel with a flowing black-and-tan coat, Tai looked right at home among the mossy rocks and wind-carved trees. While I was still catching my breath, he was calmly striking a pose—steady, regal, and quietly magnificent. He’s the kind of dog who looks like he belongs in a Highland folktale.

We found pockets of soft, golden light streaming through the trees as Tai climbed onto lichen-covered stones and gazed out over his domain. From the rugged trails of the Cairngorms to the sun-dappled tufts of grass, Tai became part of the landscape—a living legend with feathered ears.

It’s dogs like Tai that remind me why I do this. We don’t just photograph dogs in scenic places—we create visual stories that celebrate their personalities, presence, and spirit.