Pet Photography and Pet Portraiture

If you are a pet lover, I can't wait to meet you. Pets and especially homeless pets are my passion and therefore I have spent a lot of time blending my interest in pets with my profession. If a person can do what they love (photography) and love what they do (pets) then they have made it to the big time. I have to say though, it is not easy. I'm pretty sure you already know what I mean. Even well behaved and trained pets have a keen ability to outwit the shutter button. Something tells me they are a whole lot smarter than we give them credit for. If they keep looking away, then they keep getting treats, and get to stay out and have fun that much longer.

Some things to consider if you are interested in a pet portrait:

Studio or Location?
Studio- A studio session is somewhat contained, your pet can be off leash, roam around, get settled. We don't have to worry about heat, or rain, or other dogs or distractions. The look will be a more classic "studio" look than the kind you have been taking with your camera phone.

Most people have lots of photos of their pets that they have taken themselves, usually at home or in the yard, so a studio shoot is usually a different sort of portrait and well worth considering. Now, do you want to be in the photo with your pet? If so, talk to your photographer about your dog- its size, its color, its temperament. A professional pet photographer will be able to help you with wardrobe choices, dog accessories, etc. You don't want to match, but its important that you compliment each other. Multiple dogs, and or cats? It's a challenge but worth it.

Location
I recommend a place where the dog (or cat) can be comfortable, like your own home or yard. If going to a new location, go an hour or so early, so the dog has time to run around, smell, tire themselves out a little. A location shoot if outside in a park will result in some beautiful action shots, and natural, dogs having fun stuff. Keep in mind the leash laws- if its a dog park and its an "off leash" park, other dogs may be too distracting. If its a location where the dog can't or should not be off leash, it will be difficult to capture a frolicking good time. Tampa Bay has some great dog parks, but check with your pet photographer to figure out what your best options might be.

Tips for the shoot:
Bring favorite toys, Bring a few never seen before toys. Bring favorite treats- I mean favorite!!! Not just the "Ok I will eat that too" treat, but the kind that get your dog excited. If you plan to be in the portrait, bring a friend to help manage the dog while you are busy posing and Im busing photographing. Be sure your dog is hungry-not starving, but not full either. They need to be treat motivated. Well exercised- take them for a jog or long walk prior to the shoot. Bring a variety of collars or accessories, if you have them, we can mix and match and see what works best for the photos.