Rising Stars: Meet Nia Sanford

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nia Sanford.

Nia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started a dog Instagram account when I got my first Australian Shepherd in college. I had started following other dog adventure accounts and it seemed like a fun thing to do. Little did I know, there was this whole community of dog Instagram accounts and that I would get so sucked into it.

In the past three to four years, my account has really evolved, and I’ve gotten more passionate about the content I create. I’ve been inspired by so many amazing accounts! I saw that with a little more effort, I could really make something out of my own account.

I invested in my first full-frame DSLR camera and started focusing on the visual appeal of my account. I channel my creativity into changing up my Instagram “theme” from time to time. Some months I may have a darker moodier feel – and some months I may have a brighter and airier theme.

As my followers and engagement have increased so did my opportunities opened to work with brands both big and small. It is always nice when I can help promote a company/brand to our followers that I thoroughly enjoy and use myself.

Everything just started as me being out and about with my dogs, going on adventures, and wanting to capture the moment, and it just evolved from there.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’ve never taken the dog’s Instagram account super seriously. It’s a fun creative outlet for me. And if there happen to be additional opportunities because of it, great. And if no one sees it, that’s alright too because I just enjoy doing It.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I focus specifically on my photography. I have become a lot more proficient using photo editing software as my knowledge of photography continues to grow. I am a full-time graphic designer by day and picked up photography as a side hobby and has quickly become another passion of mine.

The coolest thing about running my account is the dog Instagram community. I’ve gotten to know people all around the world, who, like me. have outdoorsy, adventure-type accounts. When I was in Colorado last year, I messaged some of the people I knew who lived in the area, and we got together and hiked with the dogs.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
The best way to support me is to follow us on Instagram if you enjoy my content. The more our account grows the more opportunities seem to grow with it. If you go to our profile there is also a button to contact me through email there. I enjoy all facets of being creative and I am always open to new opportunities to grow.

About my dogs:

Account: @aussiemerlegirls

Winnie Is a four-year-old blue merle, and Maple Is a one-year-old red merle. Both are standard Australian Shepherds.

Winnie loves adventure, swimming, and her friends. She’s a sweetheart, very loyal, and bonded to me.

Maple is the goofy little sister. She adores Winnie, is very food motivated, and is fun to train.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aussiemerlegirls/