14/07/2023
The story behind my love of pet photography.
From a very young age, animals have been the centre of my world. Fascinated with the way they offer utter devotion to their humans, I believe there is no love like it. Photography has given me a means of providing visual evidence of that love, that exists only between people and their pets, through timeless imagery. However, it is not just relationships I aim to showcase - personalities and characteristics play a massive part too.
As a dog owner myself, I know there is nothing better than having a large framed print, of a snapshot moment in time, that truly captures the essence of your beloved pet and everything they are to you. Our pets fulfil all our needs simply from their everlasting dependance on us which stems from the human nurturing instincts, so why not treasure those memories with a visual record.
My subject set at both GCSE and A-Level reflects my keen interest in all things creative, specifically photography, which I then went on to study at the University of Cumbria. Throughout my degree I explored many photographic avenues, but still ended up moulding my skills around animals, by specialising in pet portraiture. The skill set I have developed over the duration of the course includes working with both natural and studio lighting, editing and post production, digital cameras, electronic image handling and high res files, printing, mounting and framing, and general image composition.
Our pets are an integral part of our lives - they can be saviours, best friends, and our biggest heartbreak. Pet portraiture, both photographic and through digital illustrations, allow commemoration of their unconditional adoration for us as humans.
Not only did my photography develop around my love of animals, so did my day to day work life. In 2021 I set up my own business named ‘The Bare Necessities’ which offers a range of pet care services. Being out and about all day has also allowed me to scout a range of accessible locations for all types of people and pets.
It was at this point I also started exploring the fun in design and illustration. Using my clients beloved pets as models allowed me to create some examples of different unique arty portrait styles which thankfully were a hit! Now I love to try as many different avenues as I can, finding new interests along the way…. But will always gravitate towards pet photography ☺️🐾