8 Reasons You Need a Dog or Cat Specific Photographer
Despite being around for a long time, dog photography is still seen as a relatively new thing. You might think you'd have to be a "crazy dog mom" to even consider wanting to spend money on a photo session for your pup. Why should capturing those special memories with our dogs be any different then newborn or family photos for your kids?
But not just any photographer can capture those special moments with your dogs. Here are the top reasons you should hire a professional DOG photographer instead of just any family photographer.
They'll Be Ready To Roll Around In The Mud
One thing that's different about photographing dogs versus people is that you have to be ready to get down and dirty at every session. Whether I'm photographing a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, there will be plenty of times that I'll be getting down on the ground so I can be on eye level with your dog.
This is very important to capturing stunning dog photos and not something you usually have to worry about when photographing people (on the contrary, many human photographers will have step stools to get up higher).
They’ll Know How to Work with a Subject Who May Be Shy, Nervous or Even Aggressive
Working with animals is vastly different from working with people. Not only do they not understand everything you’re saying, but they can have different reactions to people and places, and may even be nervous or aggressive. This is where it’s vitally important to work with a professional who’s experienced with pets specifically.
We know their cues, their body language and can read their signals to gauge when to keep going and when a break may be needed.
You’d never know that Precious here is an aggressive dog who spent much of the session “protecting’” her mom.
They'll Be Pros At Capturing Hyper Dogs
Dogs have seemingly endless amounts of energy! They are constantly moving, even when they are sitting pretty for their favorite treat. You need a photographer that is an expert at being able to capture those constantly moving fluff balls of yours while still having their adorable little faces fully in focus.
This not only has to do with skill but also the right camera equipment, which is a little different than what a typical family photographer might have.
They'll Have All The Best Treats And Toys
Treats and toys are a must have at any photo experience for your dog. It's the only way to get them to work with us and be interested in sitting or doing the things we're trying to ask of them. When you work with me, I'll have all sorts of gadgets and gizmos to keep your dog entertained and happy while we work together.
They’ll Be Patient and Kind to Your Dog or Cat
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard unfortunate stories of families who went to get pet photos with a family or broad-specialty photographer and they got angry (or even aggressive) with the dogs because they wouldn’t listen or behave.
That is NEVER something you have to worry about with a pet specific photographer! We love what we do and understand the challenges that come with it.
Photo by Marie Wulfram Photography
They'll Be Able To Make The Strangest Noises
A good smelling treat and a squeaky tennis ball aren't always enough to keep your dog's attention for as long as you need in order to capture all the best photos (because they don't just have one good side, every side is adorable angles of floof).
That means resorting to things like animal calls and making the strangest noises with my own voice. It takes practice and who else would really spend time practicing strange dog-bird sounds (besides than toddlers) other than a dog photographer?
They'll Know How To Edit Dog Photos
Editing dog photos is not the same as editing photos for a human face. And while there are endless amounts of videos and education on editing people, it takes a bit more work and practice to learn how to edit photos for your furry family members. Especially for black dogs!
Not to mention, I've become a pro at leash and owner removals. The photo below? A combination of multiple photos where the owners are holding leashes and are safely nearby.
Photo by Marie Wulfram Photography
They'll Love Your Dog Almost As Much As You
ANY pet photographer out there will tell you that their passion started with a love for pets. Dog photographers get into the industry because, frankly, we like dogs more than people. When you hire a dog specific photographer, you'll know you're hiring someone who will love what they do and love who they are working with. No matter their size, shape, breed, disabilities, or anything else that makes them unique. Those things only make them cuter.
Hire The Right Professional For The Job
You wouldn't hire a plumber to do your electrical work. Don't hire a family photographer to capture your dog's priceless memories. If you're looking to capture the true essence of your canine companions, then you want to be sure to invest in a professional dog photographer.