In 1988 , I began Close Encounters of the Furry Kind as a small dog grooming business in Baltimore, MD. I was known then as Jeannie Kidd.  Much to my dismay after just two years my now flourishing business had to be closed after I developed severe tendinitis in my wrist and was forced to retire from grooming.  Knowing that I would only be happy working with animals again, I began searching for my niche in the animal industry. Learning photography was something that had always been an interest of mine, but was an area in which I had little skill.  While developing my photographic skills I worked in portrait studios, a camera shop and for several veterinarians.  These experiences  helped me develop the skills necessary to become a professional photographer who works with animals. 

In 1991, I submitted my first selection of images to Dog Fancy magazine and much to my delight, the first image was chosen to appear in print.  This was a big breakthrough in showing me that is was possible to fulfill what had only been a dream up until this time. The rebirth of Close Encounters of the Furry Kind had begun. Over the next several years,  my then part-time business, blossomed and new clients came to me on a  regular basis.

In 1993, I met Bane Harrison at the camera shop where I still worked full-time. A friendship developed and Bane occasionally joined me on photo shoots trying to help where he could.  Bane had been working on a degree from the New York institute of Photography and soon became an accomplished photographer himself.  During the next couple of years Bane and I each went through a lot of very painful personal challenges and major changes in our home lives.

It was only through God's mercy and grace that we were able to leave the past behind and move forward. Before long we discovered many common interests, becoming a very effective team and in 1995 we decided to get married.

We experienced a major breakthrough in 1998, when we stepped out by Faith and began working the business full-time.  This was an exciting, but somewhat trying experience.  We knew that it was sink or swim.  We chose to swim!  Since that time Close Encounters has continued to grow and prosper.  We relocated to the mountains of North Carolina in 2002, where the weather is more cooperative for photographs and the scenery is awesome. We love the natural outdoor settings in which to shoot and Bane works hard on preparing new and unique settings for the animals to appear in. 

The Harrison household consists of two dogs, a golden retriever "Bogen", a wiry pound puppy "Sozo", and our cat "Jellybean" who thinks she's a dog.  Completing the Harrison household in 2005,  is our precious daughter Lyndsay who we were blessed with from the people of China.  Our dream is for her to one day continue the legacy of Close Encounters and take over the family business.

We are grateful for the opportunities we've had to work with owners and their dogs and to be able to get our work in front of the eyes of the public for their enjoyment.  The talents we have been given are not taken for granted and we don't forget that these are gifts that the Lord has given to us to use to bless others.  That is our intention and we hope you will be inspired by our story.  Remember God is no respecter of people and you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you!

The Staff of Close Encounters of The Furry Kind