Chasing Hydrants in Vancouver: How a Puppy’s Request Became Wall Art for Sale

When I booked my trip to Vancouver, Canada, I knew I wanted to do something different. As a photographer, I didn’t just want to capture the typical tourist shots; I wanted to capture what you wanted to see. So, before I packed my bags, I put a call out to my amazing followers on social media: What photos do you want me to take for you and you could win a framed copy of that image?

I received some wonderful requests, but one stood out. It came from one of my very favorite followers, Willow—who just happens to be an "adventure puppy."

Willow’s request? A fire hydrant!!!!! Funny, but also very interesting.

The Australian vs. North American Perspective

Now, if you are from North America, you might be scratching your head. You might be thinking, "A fire hydrant? That’s just everyday street furniture. I walk past three of them on my way to get coffee."

But here is the thing: I’m Australian. Down here, our fire hydrants are tucked away underground, usually marked only by a yellow metal cover on the path marked with a H. We don't have those iconic, bright red, standing pillars that you see in the movies. To me, a classic North American fire hydrant isn’t mundane; it is a novelty! Though the trope of the dog and fire hydrant is still wide spread by a lot of North American social media and movie content.

Suddenly, this wasn’t just a favor for a dog; it became a genuine creative challenge.

The Hunt for the Perfect Shot

To fulfill Willow’s request, I had to be ready at a moment’s notice. I carried my camera everywhere I went, scanning the streets of Vancouver not just for mountains and skylines, but for the perfect red hydrant.

It is funny how a specific goal changes how you see a city. It forced me to look at the sidewalks and the street corners with a fresh set of eyes. It turned what could be a boring snapshot into a pursuit of fine art photography. I wanted to find a hydrant that wasn't just existing, but one that was interacting with the beautiful Vancouver scenery.

Whistler Fire Hydrant

Willow’s Choice

I ended up taking quite a few shots. Some were urban and gritty, others were bright and colorful. My personal favorite was not the one Willow chose but the image of fire hydrant standing proud between the fall trees of Whistler.

But I got other wonderful shots including a classic hydrant situated right in front of a stunning water view. The contrast between the industrial red metal and the serene blue water created a composition that was surprisingly beautiful.

Water View Fire Hydrant by Willow the Adventure Puppy

When I returned and presented the options, Willow the adventure puppy made the final call. She chose the hydrant with the water view. It was the perfect blend of her request and my travel experience.

Bringing the Journey Home

This experience reminded me that art is everywhere—even in the objects we might overlook. Whether it is a sweeping landscape or a quirky street feature, these moments translate beautifully into fine art prints.

If you are looking to refresh your space, travel photography offers a window into different worlds (and sometimes, different fire hydrants!). I have curated a selection of my best shots from the trip—including Willow’s favorite—available as photography wall art.

• For the Collectors: If you are browsing wall art for sale, consider pieces that have a story behind them. It makes the artwork much more meaningful when it hangs in your home.

• For the Home Decorators: Finding the right wall art for living room spaces can be tricky. You want something that sparks conversation. Believe it or not, even a photo of a fire hydrant can do just that when captured with the right light and composition.

  
  

Thank you to Willow the Adventure Puppy for the challenge, and to Vancouver for the beautiful subjects.