Through Hani’s lens: Turning passion into purpose

tiina
Oct 1
3 min read

There’s something special about a good photograph. The kind that makes you pause, smile, and feel something deep inside. For the Stray Dogs Center rescue dogs, that “something” could be the step toward finding a home.

Meet Hani Omar, a professional portrait and pet photographer behind Zoomie Studio, who is using his lens to change lives — one wagging tail at a time. Hani donates his time, creativity, and skill, helping our rescue dogs get noticed, connect with adopters, and find their forever homes.

Hani Omar donates his skills to help Stray Dogs Center rescue dogs find homes. — Hani with his adopted dog Lupo

From corporate life to capturing souls

Hani’s journey hasn’t been the typical artist’s path. Born in Egypt, he moved to the UAE in 2012 and spent 23 years working in the corporate world before following his passion full-time.

“I’ve always loved animals,” Hani shares. “My father never had pets, but he noticed my curiosity early on and taught me to treat every animal with kindness — whether it was a horse pulling a chariot or a stray dog on the streets of Cairo.”

That compassion eventually led him to adopt Lupo, his handsome dog with striking eyes, nine years ago. “It was love at first scroll,” he laughs. “Lupo had trust issues at first, but patience pays off. Now he struts around like a star — no fear, just happiness.”

Discovering the power of pet portraits

Hani’s professional focus started with people — even underwater portraits — but during the Covid lockdown, he experimented at home.

“I gave Lupo a photoshoot, and it turned out beautifully,” he recalls. “That’s when I thought: who said portraits are only for humans?”

Soon after, Hani was inspired by the work of an American photographer who highlights shelter dogs through professional rescue dog photography.

“Choosing to adopt a rescue dog can feel daunting. But when you see a dog’s true self — relaxed, happy, and shining in a portrait — it can touch your heart and make the decision easier.”

Rescue dog photography for Stray Dogs Center

Hani volunteered his time and skills for Stray Dogs Center, creating thoughtful, heartwarming portraits of dogs waiting for homes.

“Every time I step behind the camera, I feel like I’m giving them a voice — a chance to be truly seen,” he explains. “It’s more than just photos; it’s about making a real difference for these dogs and connecting them with people who might become their future family.”

Patience, treats, and harmonicas

Hani knows not all rescue dogs are immediately comfortable in front of the camera.

“Patience is key,” he says. “I let them sniff around, explore the space, and get comfortable. Then I use squeaky toys, treats — sometimes even my harmonica — to get that perfect, heart-melting head tilt.”

His favorite memory? A dog named Neola. “She ran right up to me and my camera as soon as she entered the room. I knew instantly it would be a great shoot.”

A photo shoot for our rescue dogs waiting for homes in boarding — Behind the scenes of a photo shoot

Spreading hope — and happy endings

Hani doesn’t just take photos — he follows up. “I always ask shelters to update me when a dog I’ve photographed gets adopted. Sharing those happy endings spreads positivity and shows that adoption is a better choice than buying.”

Hani’s advice to anyone moved by his work is simple:

“Contact the shelter and ask how you can truly help. It’s not always about money. Sometimes what they need most is your time — foster a dog, walk them, or simply spend time with them. Even the smallest act can change a shelter animal’s life.”