Equipment I use

Camera: Canon 250D

Lenses:

• Canon 55-250mm f/4-5.6
• Canon 50mm f/1.8
• Canon 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6

I use a variety of lenses depending on the types of images my client wants from the photoshoot.

I use the 50mm lens in low light and mainly for still shots, the 55-250mm is best for shots with movement as it allows me to keep pets in the frame. The 10-18mm lens is mainly for close ups or images where I want the background more visible.

My Journey so far

I love animals, especially dogs. Growing up on a farm in Mid Wales, caring for animals has always been a large part of my life. I set up Woodland Workbench with a goal to not only sell my crafts, but to give a focus to my photography and pyrography skills. My long term aim is to set up community groups to support others that have been diagnosed as neurodiverse, having been diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 27 I would love to set up a support network for other like-minded people to enjoy sharing their crafts and support each other in a peer-led, non-judgemental environment.

For as long as I can remember I have loved photography, I was quite often found lying on the ground, taking photos of insects, mosses or mushrooms, I love the unique perspective of macro photography but wanted to expand my knowledge while doing something I love, spending time with animals, which is where my pet photography business idea started. I have been working hard to develop my pet photography skills, I love the challenge of getting the perfect shot to showcase each pets unique personality and quirks.

Pet wellbeing during photoshoots

Meeting clients pets:

During my time with clients' pets, it is important that the pet's wellbeing comes first. In practice, this may look like taking short breaks to allow your pet to release some energy, particularly if the client wants more posed photos or if I am working with a puppy/high-energy breed.

If the pet I am working with is a nervous animal I let them come to me, ignoring them until they feel comfortable enough to interact. Throughout the photoshoot I am constantly watching for any signs of discomfort or anxiety, I always take a break to re-evaluate if needed.

Getting your pets comfortable around the camera:

Before each photoshoot it is important for me to find out information about the pet, so that I can gauge how they may react in front of a camera. I do this by sending out a client information pack to fill in before the photoshoot.

For younger dogs or anxious dogs this may involve, going at their pace, allowing them to be around the camera at their level, I may involve some treats/positive praise/fuss, that way the camera becomes associated with good things happening. This will really help the photoshoot go smoothly and to get the perfect shots of your pet.