In a world where many are bound to their corporate jobs, John Fabiano took a bold step to break free from the conventional lifestyle and follow his passion. A lifelong dog lover, he left his stable corporate job to travel the world and capture the unique bond between humans and dogs.
Since 2022, he has been documenting these relationships across different cultures and landscapes, turning his passion into a full-time career. His story is not just about photography but about how stepping away from societal norms can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful life.
A Journey Inspired by His Own Dog
John Fabiano, originally from Buffalo, New York, found inspiration in his own dog, Viola. Viola had been a source of joy and guidance during tough times, helping him navigate moments of uncertainty.
Observing her zest for life and enthusiasm for exploring the world encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone. He began spending more time outdoors, capturing images of dogs and their interactions with humans. It was during these moments that he realized he had found his true calling.
Although photography was not always a part of his skillset, the COVID-19 pandemic gave him the opportunity to develop it. Until 2020, he had never even owned a camera.
However, as the world slowed down, he found himself investing time in learning and refining his photography skills. By 2022, he had gained enough confidence to leave his job and dedicate himself fully to documenting the different ways dogs are treated and valued worldwide.
Exploring the World Through the Lens of Canine Companionship
John Fabiano’s journey took him to various countries, each offering a unique perspective on the role of dogs in human society. He divided his project into four categories: wild dogs, working dogs, purebred dogs, and underdogs.
His first destination was Germany, where he encountered a woman who owned 10 German Shepherds. The deep connection she shared with her dogs left a lasting impression on him.
From Germany, he traveled to Greenland, where he documented sled dogs and their integral role in daily life. One of his most notable photographs from this trip won first place in the documentary category of the Dog Photography Awards in 2024.
John Fabiano’s journey then led him to Chennai, India, where he captured the lives of street dogs, highlighting their resilience and adaptability in urban environments.
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Australia was another memorable stop on his expedition. There, he spent 40 days traveling in a campervan with a fellow dog lover, meeting various canines and their owners along the way.
His work showcases the immense diversity in human-dog relationships across different cultures, shedding light on how dogs are more than just pets – they are companions, protectors, and even workers contributing to human societies.
Challenges and Rewards of a Life Devoted to Passion
Though John Fabiano’s journey has been filled with incredible experiences, it has not always been easy. Photographing dogs comes with its own set of challenges.
He has faced numerous instances where dogs refused to sit still or look at the camera, resulting in countless unusable shots. However, his love for dogs and his patience keep him going, ensuring that he captures the most heartfelt and genuine moments between canines and their human companions.
Despite the hurdles, John Fabiano finds immense joy in his work. He often reflects on how his younger self, who had always adored dogs, would be proud of the life he is living today. Now in his mid-30s, he has traveled to 18 countries and has no plans of stopping. Thailand is next on his list, and he is excited to explore the new stories waiting to be told through his lens.
John Fabiano’s journey serves as an inspiration to those who dream of stepping away from the conventional path to pursue their true passions.
His work not only captures the beauty of the human-dog relationship but also serves as a reminder that happiness lies in following one’s heart. Through his photography, he continues to showcase the universal love and companionship that dogs bring to people’s lives worldwide.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏