
Pets nowadays are considered part of the family. A pet owner is referred to as a pet parent with pets considered a part of the family. Just as parents get photos taken of their babies, they also get photos of their pets. This has led to the growth of a new photography niche, which is pet photography.
If you love animals and like shooting their photos, you can become a pet photographer. We have a guide that tells you how to be a successful pet photographer. Follow these guidelines and become a pet photographer in demand.
Guide to being a successful pet photographer
1) Know the job
You need to know about the job before you get started. You can choose any of the niches of pet photography to specialize in it.
- A pet portrait photographer specializes in taking close-up shots of pets. Just as portraits are taken of people, many also get portraits of their pets. You may need to have a small studio to take photos or do it at the pet owner’s home.
- Dog show photographers take photos of dog shows and related events. The organized would pay you for covering the event and taking photos. This calls for speed and expert photography skill. You need to shoot dogs on the move and do it without interfering with the event.
- Marketing photographers work with pet product companies. The companies either hire photographers or use them on a freelance basis. You need to shoot photos that they would use for their marketing campaigns or on the product.

2) Remember it is more about the business
Pet photography is 10% photography and 90% business. The photography is where you use your skills to take photos. That will help you get your work done. But, if you want to be successful then you need to focus on the business. 90% of pet photography is about establishing and running a business.
You need to start the business, give it a name, and promote it. You can then need to talk to prospective clients and showcase your work. Once someone is interested to work with you, a contract would be required. You need to be business savvy and proactive if you want to be successful.
3) Get your gear ready
If you want to be a professional pet photographer, you need the right gear. You will need the following equipment:
- A good quality DSLR camera is needed to get the best photos. You can even shoot with mobiles, but clients would expect professionals to use a professional camera.
- Different kind of lenses like zoom lenses would be required. You can start with a 50 mm lens, and then add on other lenses as your business grows.
- Accessories like memory card, batteries, tripod stand and a camera bag would be needed.
- You may need some props to use for your photo sessions. Toys for the pets to play with and treats to keep them happy are needed. Offering treats will help you get acquainted with the pet.
- Lighting equipment could be required if you are shooting indoors. A light umbrella is good if you want to set up a portrait studio.
4) Have an offline and online portfolio
If you want clients, the only way to acquire them is by showcasing your work. Someone who wants pet photographs should see your work. You need to create a top-class portfolio. The portfolio should feature your best photographs of pets. Ensure you have a variety of photos including portraits, general photos, show photos, etc.
The portfolio should highlight your brand. Ensure your brand or your name with your logo is present on all photos. Include details of clients with whom you have worked. Share details of your achievements, awards won, etc. Include references of a few clients, so prospective clients are assured of your credibility.
Make a printed copy of the portfolio to carry with you when you go to meet a client. Ensure high resolution photos are printed and made into an attractive file. Also have an online portfolio as a pdf file or any other format. Post your work on your website and also on your social media page. Promote your photos online, so it reaches more people.

5) Know about the animal
You may want to specialize in shooting only dogs or cats. The other option is to be prepared to shoot any kind of animal or bird. In either case, you must have complete knowledge of the animal. Read about the animal in books and through online resources. Understand how they behave and also their body language.
Spend time with the animal before shooting, so you understand more about it. Every dog is not the same. Some are friendly, while others may not get along well with strangers. You should be able to win over the animal and make it feel comfortable with you. Talk to the pet owners and know more about the pet before you start.
6) You need patience
For any kind of animal photography, you must have infinite patience. Shooting an animal is not as easy as shooting a human. The basic difference is that most humans co-operate for the shoot (except probably kids). Animals will not co-operate and they will do what they want. Just as you are about to click, they may turn away or even run.
You need to be very patient and be willing to wait. Sometimes, it may take hours to get the perfect photo. If you are the type who gets irritated fast, you will not do well in this profession. Remember, if you get angry the animal can detect it and may respond with aggression or become diffident. Have a smile on your face as it makes you feel relaxed.
7) Keep learning
The key to success is to keep learning. You need to try and develop your own photography style. For this, you need to learn new techniques about photography. Also, you need to learn and master the use of your camera. Doing this will help you become a professional photographer and earn a great reputation in the market.