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Pets are often considered part of the family, so it’s no surprise that there’s a strong market for and need for professional pet photography. And given the ongoing rise in pet ownership, the pet photography market will continue to grow. People love their pets, and they will appreciate the services of a professional pet photographer who can capture their spirit and personality.
The Pet Photography Business
Pet photography occupies a unique niche within the professional photography industry. It focuses on capturing the personalities and moments of pets, often in collaboration with their owners. This goes beyond just having pet business ideas.
This niche allows photographers to combine their love for animals with their photography skills, creating a specialized market segment. Their market is pet owners who are emotionally connected to their animals and place great value on professional photos of them.
Essential Skills and Equipment for Pet Photographers
Essential skills and techniques for a pet photographer include:
- Patience and understanding of animal behavior.
- The ability to create a comfortable and safe environment for pets during sessions.
- Knowledge of photography fundamentals such as composition, lighting, and post-processing.
- Familiarity with pet handling and posing techniques.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work with pet owners.
Mastering the Pet Photography Skills
Professional photographers are skilled at using the proper gear and lighting to get the best images. But what is marketing in the context of pet photography? It’s about understanding how to promote your unique skill set.
A great pet photographer has the ability to connect with the animal, and understand how to bring out its personality in a photo. They may interact with the pet and its owner or owners before taking any photos, which will help the pet relax and become interested in its surroundings, instead of fearful.
The photographer may get down on the same level of the animal, using treats or toys to get its attention. Once the pet is relaxed and interested, it will be easier to get good photographs.
Gear Recommendations for a Professional Pet Photographer
Recommended gear includes a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a variety of lenses, including a portrait lens (e.g., 50mm or 85mm), wide-angle lens, and telephoto lens.
You’ll also need a sturdy tripod and external flash. Reflectors can also be beneficial.
Props such as toys and pet-friendly accessories can enhance your shots.
| Equipment Type | Specific Gear | Purpose/Use | Budget Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camera Body | DSLR or Mirrorless | High-quality photos, interchangeable lenses | Mid to high-range budget |
| Lenses | Wide-angle, Telephoto, Prime | Different focal lengths for varied shots | Investment can vary widely |
| Tripod | Adjustable-height Tripod | Stabilize shots, particularly in low light | Moderate to high budget |
| Lighting | Softboxes, LED Panels | Controlled lighting conditions | Moderate budget needed |
| Backdrops | Fabric, Paper, Collapsible | Controlled and themed backgrounds | Low to moderate budget |
| Memory Cards | High-speed SD Cards | Adequate storage, quick data transfer | Low to moderate budget |
| Carrying Case | Weather-resistant bag or case | Protects and organizes gear | Moderate budget |
| Portable Batteries | External Battery Packs | Extra power for camera and lights | Moderate budget |
| Editing Software | Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop | Post-processing of images | Subscription-based or one-time purchase |
| Props | Toys, Treats, Pet Furniture | Attracting attention, themed shots | Low budget |
Starting Your Own Pet Photography Business-Step by Step
Creating Your Pet Photography Business Plan
A business plan for a pet photography business should include:
- Business goals and objectives.
- Target market and customer personas.
- Pricing structure and packages.
- Marketing and branding strategies.
- Financial projections and budgeting, which should include small business insurance.
- A timeline for launching and growing the business.
- Understanding common business structures can help you navigate the complexities of running a pet photography business.
Market Research and Identifying Your Target Audience
If you’re wondering how to start a business in pet photography, market research is crucial. You need to understand your competition and the demand in your area.
Factors to consider in market research and determining your target audience include:
- Identifying your competition and their strengths/weaknesses.
- Understanding the demand for pet photography in your area.
- Defining your ideal client demographics and psychographics.
- Identifying trends and preferences within your target market.
- If there are other pet photographers in your market, how can you distinguish your business? Take photographs in clients’ homes? Use extravagant backdrops? Make sure you research what the competition is doing, or not doing.
Pricing, Profitability, and Packages
When setting prices, consider factors such as your costs, market demand, and perceived value. Offer a range of packages to cater to different budgets. Ensure your pricing covers your expenses while providing room for profit. You can refer to a business startup checklist to ensure you’re covering all bases.
Research what area photographers are charging for standard photo packages, such as graduation pictures or baby pictures. Remember that clients who want professional pictures of their pets most likely consider the pet to be part of the family.
Marketing and Branding Your Pet Photography Business
- Build a strong online presence through a professional website and social media. Make sure to include client testimonials. A website startup guide can be invaluable in this phase.
- Showcasing your unique style and love for pets in your branding, to attract potential clients.
- Utilizing SEO techniques as you build your webside, to improve online visibility.
- Networking with local pet-related businesses.
- Offering promotions or referral programs to attract initial clients.
Building an Impressive Pet Photography Portfolio
Start by offering discounted or even free sessions to build your initial portfolio.
Showcase a variety of pet subjects, styles, and settings. As you gain experience and clients, update your portfolio with your best work.
Your most common assignment will be dog photos. Will you also photograph other pets, such as cats, horses, pot-bellied pigs, chickens, ferrets, birds and others?
Networking with Other Pet Professionals
Definitely network with pet related businesses such as pet stores, groomers and veterinarians.
You may also network with an animal shelter or pet rescue to provide photos of available pets. You most likely won’t be paid for such work, but when your business name is associated with the photos, that is very good public relations work.
Where to Offer Your Pet Photographer Services
If you have a studio, of course, use that for your pet photography. But don’t be afraid to take the show on the road:
High-end pet stores
Set up a photo shoot area for shoppers who bring their pets to the store. You can set this up with a seasonal theme, such as a holiday.
Dog-friendly cafes
Dog friendly establishments are also great opportunities for partnering. Take photos of pets and patrons enjoying some leisure time, and post them to both your own and the cafe’s website. Of course, images are available for purchase.
Pet Expos
Pet Expos and similar events are great places to show off your portfolio and meet potential clients.
Collaborations with Local Businesses
With so many people being pet owners, it’s not just pet related businesses who are best for networking. You can find ways to collaborate with local business owners. Join your local Chamber of Commerce or business association group, where you can meet business owners and brainstorm on how to combine your efforts.
Challenges and Opportunities in Pet Photography
No new business is without challenges. When you overcome those challenges, you’ll increase your opportunity to grow your business, and your bottom line.
Carving Out Your Niche in Pet and Dog Photography
The standard pet photography request if for dog photos. That’s going to be the mainstay of a pet photography business.
You can branch out from that by focusing on other pets, such as cats or exotic pets.
Another focus can be on action shots. For example, there are many dog sports, to include tests of hunting skills, navigation of obstacle courses, dock diving, lure coursing (chasing an object through a field), barn hunting and more. For a list of events in your area, check the American Kennel Club website and search under Events, using your state or area.
Each event will have a secretary, who is responsible for taking entries. That’s the person you’ll contact to see if you’ll be allowed to take photos at the event. You can download the photos (watermarked and protected from reproduction) to a website or dropbox, and use software to allow the pet owners to order the photos.
Navigating Common Challenges
Pets don’t always behave or follow instructions. They may be uncomfortable and even fearful when a large camera is pointed their way. As we previously discussed, taking time to let the pet relax and get to know the photographer, as well as the immediate area, can make the actual photo taking much easier.
Some animals are challenging to photograph due to their appearance. For example, a dark-eyed black Labrador Retriever may need the photographer to use special lighting techniques and reflectors to bring out the definition of its eyes and face.
Pet photography can also be seasonal. For example, business may be strongest before the holidays, as families hope to create the perfect holiday card, including their pet. To adjust to seasonal business fluctuations, keep your business thriving by using other holidays or special events to interest clients.
FAQs: How to Start a Pet Photography Business
What should a pet owner look for in a pet photographer?
Pet owners are looking for a photographer who is not only very skilled, but very good at interacting with pets. The best photos will be of a relaxed, happy pet.
Is photographing dogs harder than photographing other pets?
There are a lot of factors to consider when answering this question. Some dogs are quite photogenic, in fact, seem to understand that it’s an important occassion and enjoy the process. Others just want “whatever this is” to end. And the difficulty of getting a good photograph of a dog is also related to its level of training – for example, will it sit or lie down on command? Stay?
The answer is similar with cats. Some may be accustomed to carrier travel and be relaxed enough for a photo. Others may prefer to hide under the furniture.
Image: Envato Elements
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