Urban Dog Studio is a collaboration between photographers Laurie Elmer and Knicki Lucrezi. In 2003 Knicki and Laurie met in an online photography forum, participating in the same critique groups. Over the years, they have inspired each other to stretch their artistic vision and try new techniques. After Knicki moved from Oregon to Florida in 2012, she began assisting Laurie with pet sessions, as well as other lifestyle photo assignments. What they discovered is that they work very well together. Each brings a unique vision that inspires and compliments the other. They share ideas, work through challenges, and brainstorm to the benefit of their clients. Most of all, they have a lot of fun and it shows in their work! In early 2019, the planets aligned and Laurie and Knicki decided to combine forces and launch Urban Dog Studio: fine art pet photography…unleashed.
Laurie Elmer
Photographer, Laurie Elmer was born in St. Petersburg Florida. She currently lives in the Tampa Bay area with with her husband David, a veterinarian, her dog “Nikon,”her cats Jetty and Delieu, and Yertle the Turtle. Laurie attended Guilford College in North Carolina and earned a bachelors degree in art. Initially working in painting and printmaking, Laurie gradually switched to photography. She has been honing her photography skills since 2000. Being married to a veterinarian with a thriving practice in Pinellas Park FL, it was only natural that Laurie began making pet portraits. She explores the way pets live in the moment as well as the human animal bond. That led to editorial work for numerous pet related publications. Laurie’s images have graced many magazine covers as well as illustrated countless articles. Her images have appeared in calendars, on note cards, in advertising campaigns, and gallery exhibits. Laurie has also written many articles on photographing pets, explaining not only technical approaches, but also the importance of allowing pets to be themselves in front of the camera. Laurie believes in giving back to her community. She has dedicated her time and a portion of proceeds from pet portrait sessions to her dog rescue, “One Dog At A Time–Tampa Bay.” She uses her photography skills to tell the stories of the rescue dogs, to educate others on responsible pet ownership, to celebrate the human animal bond, and to help promote adoptions.
Knicki Lucrezi
Knicki Lucrezi is a Florida transplant from the Pacific Northwest where she spent time photographing lifestyle families, high school seniors, children, and the occasional chicken (for editorial assignment). She also used her talents to document special events. Knicki has shared her knowledge with local school children, teaching photography (traditional and modern techniques) as well as digital arts. Knicki has been cultivating her photographic skills since 2003. She has done commercial catalog work and editorial work for various publishers. Her work has also been included in many group exhibits. Knicki's heart has always been connected to animal welfare and she often works with rescue groups. It was only natural that Knicki became a pet photographer, combining her passion for photography and animals. She shares her home with her three dogs: Dobby (Manchester Terrier) and her Chuhuahuas Venus, and Thena, as well as her two cats Pan and Tin Tin.
