By: Kim VanOs
Let’s be honest—sometimes I think I love animals more than photography, which is wild to admit out loud… but hey, truth matters. I’ve always been tempted to go full-on pet photographer, but my heart (and camera) just won’t stay in one lane. I love it all—families, grads, cake smashes—and yep, your furbabies too.
Even though there isn’t always a huge demand for standalone pet photo sessions, that doesn’t stop me from photographing every sweet whisker and wag I can. Between fostering for the Arizona Humane Society, watching friends’ pets, working with the sweet farm animals of MM Ranch Services Mobile Petting Zoo and loving on our own crew at home, animals are part of the daily joy around here.
So, if you’re wanting to snap better photos of your pets (or just make them look extra cute on Instagram), here are a few easy, real-world tips to get started.
Get Down on Their Level
You want personality and connection? Get low. The best pet photos usually come from their point of view—not yours. Whether it’s belly-down on the ground or sitting eye-to-eye with your pup or a sweet baby goat, this change in perspective makes a big difference.
Get Them Comfortable with the Camera
This might actually be the most important tip. A lot of pets are suspicious of cameras at first—they stare anywhere but the lens like you’re trying to steal their soul. Before you even start snapping away, let them get used to the sound and presence of the camera. Take a few test clicks and reward them just for hanging out.
Bribery Works. Use It.
Treats, squeaky toys, your most annoying baby voice—use whatever motivates them. Positive reinforcement keeps the session fun and stress-free. And yes, snacks make the world go round. (It works on toddlers and husbands too, in case you’re wondering.)
Patience Is Everything
The best shots come when they’re ready, not when you are. Animals are on their own time schedule, and that’s okay. Let the session unfold naturally. Some of the sweetest moments happen between the planned shots anyway.
Practice with Your Own or Borrow a Friend’s
Don’t wait for the perfect moment or setup. Practice on your own pets—or if you’re like me, on your friends’ pets, foster kittens, or the chickens at the farmer’s market.
Final Thoughts + Tag Me!
Whether you’re photographing your dog, your cat, or your friend’s gorgeous horse, I hope these tips help you slow down, lean in, and enjoy the process. And if you try any of these out—please tag me at @kimvanosphotography so I can see your furbabies in action!
See below for some more sweet photos of my foster babies, friends’ pets, sweet farm animals from MM Ranch Services Mobile Petting Zoo and our own furry family.
Your friendly neighborhood photographer,
Kim
