I’m Alfonso, the photographer behind Island Guard Photography and Island Guard K9 Media.

I’ve been doing photography for over 25 years, both during my career in the United States Navy aboard submarines and after leaving the Navy. My Navy career took me around the world and taught me discipline, adaptability, and to always be ready for whatever comes next. I’ve carried those lessons with me throughout my photography career.

My background is also in the fashion industry, including fashion shows and runway photography. That experience taught me to pay attention to. presentation, lighting, movement, composition, and the small details that can make an image special.

I created Island Guard K9 Media because I want to bring that same level of care and quality to dog-show photography.

I’m not going to say I’m the best photographer out there. There are a lot of talented photographers, and I have a lot of respect for the people who work ringside. What I can say is that I strive to produce the best quality work I can, every time I pick up a camera.

For me, dog-show photography is about more than simply getting the shot. It’s about showing the dog at its best, capturing its movement, expression, structure, and personality, and creating images that owners, breeders, handlers, and exhibitors are proud to have.

I also believe in supporting the photographers around me. There is room for all of us ringside. I enjoy working with other ringside photographers and win photographers, sharing information, helping when I can, and supporting each other. I’d rather build relationships than build walls.

My goal is simple: bring my experience from the fashion industry, more than 25 years behind the camera, and a genuine commitment to quality to the dog-show world.

I’ll always be grateful to the dog-show community in Hawaii for the support and trust they’ve given me over the years. That community helped shape my photography career, and I’m proud to continue that connection through Island Guard K9 Media.

"I may not be the best, but I’ll always strive to give you my best."

Thanks for stopping by. I hope to see you ringside.