The Tilly Project
The Tilly Project is a global 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to connecting pet owners with end-of-life pet photographers worldwide. It also offers accessible resources focused on photography, anticipatory grief, and the emotional journey of pet loss and bereavement.
What Does the Tilly Project Do?
Founded in 2021 by Lauren Kennedy, The Tilly Project is an organisation with multiple goals:
- To create an online platform and community that connects pet owners seeking end-of-life pet photography services with photographers who offer them.
- To offer educational photography tutorials for individuals and veterinary staff when a professional photographer isn’t available.
- To provide supportive resources and guidance for pet owners navigating anticipatory grief and the challenges of pet loss and bereavement.
The Tilly Project History
In May 2021, Lauren Kennedy was contacted by a friend on Facebook with a request: “I have a friend who needs to put her dog down and wants to find a nice urn at a good price—do you know of any places she can check out?” Lauren, who works at a wildlife rehabilitation center and has been involved in animal rescue for most of her life, often gets asked animal-related questions. With her background in photography, she decided to offer something unique - discounted end-of-life pet photography for the family.
After the photography session, Lauren shared the images (with permission) on her personal Facebook page and TikTok. The response was overwhelming, and it quickly became clear that this service was in high demand. So much so that Lauren started receiving hundreds of messages each day.
Realising she couldn’t personally photograph every family in need, she asked herself, How could she help on a larger scale? And How could she provide grief support specifically for pet owners? That’s when she created a Facebook group to connect clients seeking end-of-life pet photography with photographers offering the service. She also began reaching out to photographers worldwide, compiling an ever-growing list that now includes over 300 photographers across the globe.
I feel truly honoured to be an affiliate photographer for the Tilly Project. Each end-of-life session I’ve had the privilege of photographing is so special. It's an emotional experience, witnessing the deep bond between each family and their beloved pet. Being able to capture those precious moments and create images that will last a lifetime is something I hold dear to my heart - it's such a meaningful and beautiful part of my work.
Would You Like to Know More About an EOL Photoshoot?
