Dogs—sleeping in alleys, calmly waiting on a railway platform, looking directly at the camera, and doing other ordinary dog activities—are the subjects of Maine photographer Michelle Lohutko’s photographs. Her black and white images show the quiet dignity of dogs who often must fend for themselves. While many of these dogs are community-owned and can count on handouts from street vendors, restaurant workers, or other kind residents, their lives are still filled with great risks and hardship.

A photographer since the age of 14, Michelle always knew she wanted to do something with her talents to better the lives of animals. In 2001, she started as a pet photographer.

Eventually, Michelle met and married a man who is originally from Kolkata in the state of West Bengal, India. When viewing her husband’s photographs of a trip back home, Michelle’s eyes gravitated to the dogs that populated the backgrounds of most scenes. She bombarded her husband with questions and then started researching stray dogs in India.

In December of 2004, Michelle traveled around West Bengal for 5 weeks. She spent most of her time photographing dogs on the streets. This life-changing experience prompted her to educate others about India’s street dogs.

In 2005, Michelle held an exhibition of her photographs. They sold out within hours. She donated the proceeds from this exhibit (amounting to $3,200) to Compassionate Crusaders Trust, which spays, neuters, vaccinates, and shelters stray dogs in Kolkata.

I am selling three images from Michelle's "Stray Dogs of India" series. Click on "photographs" in the navigation bar to the left. All of the profits from their sale will go to Compassionate Crusaders Trust.