Pet Photography

[Amy2004]

I've been thinking of things I could do as a business idea.

Anyone have any thoughts about starting a pet photography business where I focus on photographing pets graduating from training school? I haven't seen or heard of anyone taking pictures of their dog's graduation day. I thought that would be something nice and I think people would pay for it.

As more people are viewing their pets as kids, graduation pictures would be a nice touch.

[Doug Nelson]

I've actually gone through one of those schools. They're very informal (at least this one was). There was a cute graduation ceremony, and even little doggy diplomas. My wife cried. I'm sure she would have demanded a photo, had the opportunity been around. And I'm sure the instructor would have been amenable, especially if they got a "commission".

[Mike]

We do "Santa and Pets". People spend about twice as much on their pet and Santa as they do on their kids and Santa.

Mike

[Ed_L]

I've been through one of the schools too. My personal opinion is that it probably wouldn't be lucrative, but I've been known to be wrong a time or two before. It won't be long, and I expect to be going to another class. Maybe I'll run that question by some of the other participants when the time comes.

Ed

[Amy2004]

Hey Ed,

That would be good info to know.

If I were to do it, it would be for extra side income. I love animals so photographing them at their graduation would be something that I would have fun doing.

[Janet Petty]

People who participate in dog/cat shows always have a photographer on site to take "pet" pictures, why not expand on the idea for the general public. I think it would work, especially if you were willing to travel some so you could expand your business and get a name for yourself.

[Chip Hildreth]

Originally Posted by Janet Petty

People who participate in dog/cat shows always have a photographer on site to take "pet" pictures, why not expand on the idea for the general public. I think it would work, especially if you were willing to travel some so you could expand your business and get a name for yourself.

The governing bodies of shows and competitions generally sanction (and take a commission from) a single photographer, often with exclusive rights to shoot in the ring and/or the judging and awards. Other people are welcome to take pictures but it's kind of bad form for another pro to come in and shoot for hire for more than one client; and even with that one client you don't get the same access.

As for schools, that sounds like a good idea if you can get hooked up with a few of them. The step and repeat nature of that type of photography makes for good income because it's efficient. You could shoot digital and have a photo printer onsite... strike while the iron is hot. Be sure to have a referral card too for reprints and undecided customers. Sounds like a winner to me... you're not near the RTP are you?

[Janet Petty]

Reply to Chip:

I didn't mean she should come in and just "take over". Becoming one of the sanctioned photographers and getting that contract to take the pictures would go a long way toward achieving the goals she has set. I would never presume to jump on the territory of someone who had been hired to do a job like that. And I would hope the suggestion would have been thoroughly thought through and all form followed. After all, it was just a suggestion not a how to.

[Ed_L]

Just my thoughts on this. Most people who take their dogs to training schools are just trying to have a dog that will be a good companion, easy to manipulate, but not necessarily for competitions. It seems to me that if there is money to be made, it would be in the competitions, but questionable for the average training classes. Advanced training might offer a better chance than basic classes, where people might be more apt to bring their own cameras, and not demand professional quality.

Ed

[Amy2004]

Chip,

What does RTP stand for?

[Ed_L]

I don't know if Amy is still around, but I said I'd get back to her on the subject.

After a couple of weeks in "puppy training", I haven't had much of a chance to talk to people about this. But I did ask a few. The good news is that nobody said they wouldn't be interested. The bad news is they didn't say they *would* be interested. But I got a few replies like "maybe", or "that'd be cool", or "my wife would probably go for it". So maybe there could be a market for it afterall. I still think the odds would be better at more advanced classes.

Ed

[Amy2004]

Thanks Ed for replying.

Yes I'm still around but haven't had too much free time. So, I check in once in a while.

Maybe the pet photography wouldn't be lucrative enough to support myself due to the casualness of the events. I've been looking at various dog training classes and all of them are very informal usually with only about 10 dogs in attendance.

I think I will have to think of something else to branch into.

[DannyRaphael]

Originally Posted by Amy2004

Thanks Ed for replying.

Yes I'm still around but haven't had too much free time. So, I check in once in a while.

Maybe the pet photography wouldn't be lucrative enough to support myself due to the casualness of the events. I've been looking at various dog training classes and all of them are very informal usually with only about 10 dogs in attendance.

I think I will have to think of something else to branch into.

I know of someone who makes a boatload of $$ taking action pix during soccer and Little League seasons. He's not competing with the mass photography team and individual (batting stance) pics, but taking shots during the games. He's got some nice telephoto lenses = he's able to get closeups parents can't imagine getting with their little pocket digital cameras.

New (and plentiful) customers each season.

[Northernshadow]

Amy, if you want to to some dog photography the BEST place to go is a Dog Show! I have done this for a few years and am building a client base. It is completely acceptable to take freelance candid shots. The official photographer is there to take formal shots of the wins (the dog, handler and the judge with a sign that says what was won). Just check with the show officials if you are worried about infringing on someones territory (there is usually a table set up). I have never had a problem and have learnt a great deal. I like outdoor shows the best, Obedience and Agility competitions are not only fun to watch but offer many great opprotunities for action shots... going over jumps and navigating the agility equipment.

Good Luck! have fun!
Sherry

[CJ Max]

Originally Posted by Amy2004

I've been thinking of things I could do as a business idea.

Anyone have any thoughts about starting a pet photography business where I focus on photographing pets graduating from training school? I haven't seen or heard of anyone taking pictures of their dog's graduation day. I thought that would be something nice and I think people would pay for it.

As more people are viewing their pets as kids, graduation pictures would be a nice touch.

Amy,

It's do-able, as in that's what I do.

There are dog trainers and there are obediance classes. Focus on the dog trainers. People are spending some bucks for them. Obediance classes are usually "on the cheap", but can be productive - just don't expect as much. Give them all a try. Don't miss out on anyone. Expect to get turned down. Do have a portfolio of color 8"x10" images with you for them to look at. The portfolio book doesn't have to be expensive - I use the relatively inexpensive Itoya Art Profolio Evolution series - something like $20 for 3. If they get damaged - and they will - I don't feel badly about tossing them - keep the photos of course, but toss the portfolio.

Contact your local veterinarians. I set up with one for her annual Christmas party that she has for her clientelle. It works out nicely. Her clients bring their pets, and if they want a portrait, I do it - very casual, but good. I have a complete portable studio. That consists of Broncolor lights (3), backdrop stand and backgrounds, table (to get the "wee ones") up higher, noise makers (to get their attention), treats, etc.... Of course, I shoot from a tripod - don't try hand holding as you'll loose some great ones - camera shake always creeps in at the worst times, ie: the best images. You'll find that dogs are easier to photograph than cats. Cats like to scoot... Birds are another issue - you'll need silver lined umbrellas for light modifiers (shows up feather details better than white modifiers). I gather that you're young and probably won't have access to all of this equipment, but I mention this to give you some idea of where to go... I don't know what resources you have available, but one can do with much less. Contact me or respond here with questions, and I can bounce some different possiblities your way. Like - what kind of camera do you have? You don't give much information for anyone to work on...

Contact local pet grooming shops - these are an excellent potential.

Keep in mind that you can't do business with everyone and shouldn't expect to. Some will be very receptive and others will shoo you out the door as quickly as they can. If you develop a close working relationship with 15% that's great as they will be your bread and butter.

Hope this helps a wee bit.

Good luck,

CJ

[aussieu]

I found your thread when I was browsing around the net, and thought I may be of some help to you.

We actually show dogs, and I can give you alot of insite and options for you for photography at dog shows.

You can do ringside candid shots unless the premium list specifically states that is it limited. Video as well. A premium for example that says that this can not be done, in respect to video, is the Westminster Kennel Club shows in Madison Square Gardens (in a week actually). All rights to video that show belong toUSA network.

Alot of photographers go to shows and take candid shots then put them out on websites for the people to view and purchase. You can advertise in the show catalog for pretty cheap that you were there and the exhibitors will be able to veiw their photos at WWW.whatever

You can also rent "booth" space for portrait type photos. Alot of photographers do this, they have one person in the booth and one out taking candids...covering all the angles.

Alot of Agility trials will have an official photographer, but the Dog world offers a huge varity of options, you have fiele trials, Agility Trials, Obedience Trials, Conformation shows, Freestyle shows, Flyball Trials, herding trials, Earthdog events, Lure Coursing and who knows what else.

There are AKC show, UKC Shows, Intl Kennel Club shows, ASCA shows and several others.

Feel free to email (aussieu@comcast.net) me with any questions you all may have to get information on shows in your area and what not. (Please put dog show photo information in the subject line)

Becky Noe
www.Hotshot Kennels.com