About ZilkerBark
AUSTIN’S DOG PHOTOGRAPHER
ZilkerBark came about in the spring of 2015. The project was founded by Alex Hopes, mostly by accident. Alex had been a Zilker Park regular with his dog Sid for many years, but it wasn’t until 2015 that he started to use his camera at the park. After snapping dog after dog and sharing the photos on Instagram, Austinites began to take notice. Suddenly, ZilkerBark became a voice for the dog community of Austin and a beacon of positivity for those who followed the account.
To date, this small project has turned into more than 40,000 dogs photographed and more than $300,000 raised for animal related non-profits! Alex likes to point out that by now, ZilkerBark has likely photographed everyone’s friend’s dog!
ZilkerBark is now offering pop-up events and portrait sessions in Santa Fe, New Mexico. See here for more!
OUR TEAM
Alex, Chief Treat Keeper
Alex, our CTK, is a colorblind dog lover who also happens to be a photographer. In the winter of 2012, Alex moved to Austin with his dog Sid. He had never visited Austin before, didn’t have a job lined up and didn’t know anyone in the city, but once he saw Zilker Park, he knew he had made the right decision. While Alex’s passion is to photograph dogs, he also satisfies his soul by discovering the best breakfast tacos in town and chasing down frisbees playing ultimate frisbee. He has three dogs, all rescues, who he loves to spend his down time with. If you ever have a photo session with him, you’ll know that he’s happiest when surrounded by his canine companions!
Shannon, Fetch Coordinator
Shannon joined us this spring and has spent the last few months training extensively to ensure she delivers the high-quality experience you’ve come to expect from us. With a background in dog training and a passion for capturing families with their pups, Shannon brings a patient, thoughtful energy to each session. Whether you're camera-shy or bringing along a wiggly dog (or toddler!), she has a way of making everyone feel at ease. She has two dogs of her own (plus two cats!) and is completely in her element around animals. She’s definitely stopped mid-conversation and even crossed streets just to say hi to a cute dog. Think of your session with Shannon as an excuse for your dog to be adored, admired, and photographed like the star they are!
