Pet photography is an up and coming genre. How do you know you’ve landed a good pet photographer? Here are some common traits of good pet photographers.

1. They put pets first. That means they adjust their sessions to the needs of your pet. If your pet photographer gets frustrated or angry at your pet, fire them immediately. All of the pet photographers I know are animal lovers.

2. They aren’t afraid to look silly, or get dirty. Pet photography is not glamourous. It’s full of fun, and also slobber, dirt and fur. All of us know the best angle for pet photography is at your pet’s eye level, which usually translates to us lying face down in the dirt and grass, making silly noises to get your pet’s attention. Pet photographers who show up in heels or turn away from a slobbery kiss are not your ideal dog ‘tog.

3. They are skilled photographers. You are investing a lot of time and money into this pet photography experience, and you really want a photographer who knows how to take beautiful images in any location, at any time.

4. They are efficient, organized and responsive. We don’t just play with pets all day - we have a business to run. Your pet photographer should have a reliable and repeatable process (and be clear with you about said process). You should know what products are available, and at what price. How will you order the products? Does your photographer offer a satisfaction guarantee? The good ones stand behind their products, now and in the future. If your wall art fades in 3 years, you want to know your photographer will replace it. If you have a concern, your photographer should provide a complete and timely response.

We pet photographers, especially those of us who live and work in Minnesota, are accustomed to lying in the dirt, mud or snow. It’s part of the fun.

It’s important that you and your pet feel 100% comfortable with, and confident in, your pet photographer.- their skills, their ability to work with your pets, and their guarantees for products and services.

A word about cost…. pet photography is not the least expensive option for most. And if your pet photographer is offering a bunch of digital downloads, chances are they will not invest their time in you and your pet. They literally can’t afford to. Wouldn’t you rather have a pet photographer who invests in you, your pet and the entire experience?