Dog lover
& dog photographer
Hi, this is me!
I'm Yong Lei van Barlingen, your dog photographer from Schagen! But you can call me Leilei. Photography is a hobby that started years ago, and my own dog, Bobby, has played a major role in it.
For me, photography is a way to capture moments and tell stories. While I enjoy all types of photography, my heart is especially drawn to charming and loyal four-legged friends. There's something magical about capturing their unique personalities and playful moments through my lens.
When I began to combine my enthusiasm for photography with my love of dogs, something magical happened: dog photography blossomed into my passion. After my dog passed away, I realized how valuable photos are for capturing precious memories. You can find me in both natural and urban environments, enjoying beautiful walks and taking stunning photos. Photographing someone's four-legged friend gives me the best feeling there is!
When Bobby passed away in 2020, my heart broke.
He was my buddy, my peace, my daily happiness and suddenly it was quiet.
Perhaps what struck me most was how few photos I had of him. No images that truly captured who he was: how he looked, how he lived, how he felt at home.
Since then, I've known that a photo is so much more than a memory. It's a piece of what once was, preserved in light and love.
Something to hold on to, when you need to let go.
The love I felt for Bob remains at the heart of what I do. He taught me to see with my heart, with attention, patience, and gentleness. I now bring that same love and dedication to every portrait I create.
For me, dog photography is more than just capturing a pretty picture. It's about character, emotion, and the connection to the soul of a dog that loves unconditionally.
Where memory and feeling meet: a glimpse of love that never fades.
Photo projects
In 2022, I started my first photo project, 'Kintsugi', in which I experimented and discovered how powerful photography can be to capture stories and emotions.
Since then, ideas for new photo projects have continued to bubble up: each project offers the opportunity to bring together creativity, character, and emotion to create images that are both special and meaningful.
Together with dogs and their owners, I capture moments that reveal the unique personalities of both, whether they are playful or intimate portraits.
Collaborations, publications, awards & merits
Since 2021, I've been proud to be part of DIGIFOTO Pro , a platform for and by photographers, where I'm delighted to be involved as an ambassador. It's wonderful to be part of a community that shares a passion for photography and inspires each other.
I believe that learning continues throughout life. That's why I'm always inspired by the work of other photographers and constantly strive to develop myself. I see every new insight, technique, or creative challenge as an opportunity to deepen my photography, and I thoroughly enjoy that.
