How to Start a Pet Photography Business

If you love animals and have a talent for photography, you are already half-way to starting a pet photography business.

Thanks to cell phones, almost everyone has a camera, and pet owners may take hundreds of animal pictures. To be successful, you need to provide a product that your clients can’t create themselves: an image that captures the pet’s personality, but also serves as a beautiful work of art.

                                                          'Did somebody say cheese?'

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Good equipment and the ability to use it are critical. You may be called upon to photograph animals in motion, at rest, in the dark, in bright sunlight, in cages, and in glass tanks. At a minimum, you will need a DSLR with a fast zoom lens, backup batteries and memory cards. 

Try to use ambient light, but if you must use a flash, bounce it off a reflecting surface, not your subject. If you are not completely confident with your camera, take a course, and practice on your own pets or those of friends.

While you’re at it, build a portfolio and put it on your website. The photography business is wholly visual, and a website is an excellent way to exhibit your best work.

 In addition to business cards, calendars and greeting cards are also good ways to distribute examples of your work to pet-related businesses and potential customers.

                                                          'Make sure you get my best side!'

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Since pets are usually more comfortable at home than in an unfamiliar setting, there is no need for an actual studio. As a mobile photographer, you will travel to the pet and photograph it in its “natural” environment. 

If you decide that you do want your own studio, consider setting aside a room in your own home. Stock pet snacks and toys, and make sure there is a “facilities” area for the comfort of your animal visitors.

A standard job should start with a preliminary client meeting, during which you discuss the type of pet, the setting, and any questions the client has. At this time you also review the contract and have the client sign it and pay a deposit.

The contract should state what the client expects (number of shots, date to receive proofs, how many prints, date of final delivery) and what you expect (deposit, pet preparation and availability, final payment). Additionally, the contract should protect you from liability.

                                                            'I ike to think I'm photogenic.'

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On the day of the photo shoot, the pet will need time to get used to you. Sometimes an assistant is useful in distracting or engaging the animal. The pet should be made to feel comfortable and safe throughout the process.

When your photo shoot is finished, professional photo editing software is necessary for the meticulous work of filling, sharpening, and other minor corrections. 

The next step is sending a complete set of proofs to the client to review. Once they’ve selected which one they would like for the final portrait, that image is printed on high quality photo paper. Be sure to sign your work, and frame it if that is part of your service.

Present your client with their new piece of art, make sure they are happy with it, and ask them to tell their friends about you. Don’t forget your final payment!