Well.... H-E-L-L-O, we LOVE them! But seriously, think about some of the other great reasons to have good pictures of your pets.

• Start young. If you get a new puppy or kitten...they don't stay little for long, don't you want to have an accurate picture of how cute they were when they were little. (Especially when you need a reminder on the "cute factor" like when he gets into your shoe rack and chews up those "had-to-have-them" itallian leather shoes).
• Our beloved pets only stay with us so long, and we should have at least a photographic remnant to peak our memory and remember the good times.
• They get lost--- IT HAPPENS. And it could happen to anyone at anytime. These things are never planned but by having a clear picture on hand, you drastically improve the chances that someone notices and your pet is returned.
• Natural disasters happen too- and when they do, animals suffer. With a recent portrait of your pet, you may just have a shot at his/her return.
• Bragging rights! Yup, I said it! A cute coffee mug on your desk at work, with your pet's cute "mug" on it. These days you can get pictures printed/transfered onto just about anything, and many studios offer TONS of custom photo merchandise.
• Holiday Cards! (OK more bragging rights) Fido on your greeting cards this holiday season is sure to spark that "warm & furry...err fuzzy" feeling among your friends & family at first glance.

What can YOU do to ensure a GREAT pet portrait session? Here are a few things you might not have thought about:

• Don't just use any old photographer, find someone who specializes in pet portraits. Use google, ask friends for referrals, talk to your vet/groomer/dog walker... chances are: they have a network of contacts or have heard of someone specific.
• Keep in mind: It's the same as human portraits- Do you get different quality when you go to Wal Mart or a well-known studio with a great reputation, and a portfollio of unique works of art?
• Most good pet photographers use continuous or "natural lighting" beware if you call and find out that they use strobes (the lighting that flashes) as these often times will scare away any chance of truly capturing natural expressions and personality.
• Find out the photographer/ photography studio policy on location shooting. Some pets don't do well with: car rides (to/from the studio), overwhelming scents of other pets (in the studio), noises from other pets in or around the studio, or are just generally uncomfortable outside of the home. So, it's always good to make sure ahead of time that in case you have a situation arrise and your pet won't cooperate for any of the above listed reasons- that your photographer will be willing to accomodate your situation. Keep in mind you will most likely pay a bit more for an in-home session, but your pet's sanity and the quality of the picture may be worth it.
• Make sure to bring a few of your pet's favorite "comfort" items. These may include: toys, treats, and even noise makers. If your pet always perks up when you pick up your keys because they LOVE car rides-- make sure to keeps keys on hand during your session to shake and let the photographer catch that great expression of excitement!
• Don't stress over your pet posing-- MOST DON'T! That's right, the job of a good pet photographer is capturing the expressions and personality of your pet creating unique artwork. NOT posing them for "Vougue" (unless of coarse that's what you're shooting for).

Beware:

• The "Fly-by-night" so called "Pet Photographer" who doesn't have a physical studio. I'm not saying you can't still find someone with a lot of talent who works from home or exclusively on-location...BUT use common sense, check references, view their portfollio, and find out about payment options in advance. Some scammers, who I personally call: GWAC's (Guy With A Camera) will come to your home "shoot" some photos charge you cash, or paypal, and that my friend is the last you EVER see of him/her (except maybe on COPS someday if they actually get caught).

• Set your expectations realistically. We never know exactly how our pets will react to new surroundings or situations, but their reactions do have an impact on your session. Stay open and possitive your shoot will probablly go great! You can also help fuel your own excitement by thumbing through a few magazines, pet owner publications, and even the internet to find poses and props you like in other pet pics.
• Take your pet for a nice long walk, or play date before your session. Don't overdo it, but a nice release of energy will help you both be more relaxed. Plus that extra energy they get with all the stimulation over new surroundings will be dimmed just enough.
• Make sure to bring a few of your pet's favorite "comfort" items. These may include: toys, treats, and even noise makers. If your pet always perks up when you pick up your keys because they LOVE car rides-- make sure to keeps keys on hand during your session to shake and let the photographer catch that great expression of excitement!
• Don't stress over your pet posing-- MOST DON'T! That's right, the job of a good pet photographer is capturing the expressions and personality of your pet creating unique artwork. NOT posing them for "Vougue" (unless of coarse that's what you're shooting for).
• Stay calm and relaxed about the session- they actually sense your tension and get tense themselves, making your photographers job much more difficult.
• Try to have FUN! Your laughter and good mood should inspire the same in your loved one. So have a good time & laugh a little!