We were lucky to catch up with Petra Terova recently and have shared our conversation below.

Petra, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Becoming a boutique dog photographer has been an absolute blast and a journey full of wagging tails and slobbery kisses! So, here’s how I got started and what I’ve learned along the way.

Long time ago when my love for dogs and photography collided, I knew I wanted to add a new specialty to my existing photography business so I began by photographing my own furry companions. I experimented with different angles, lighting, locations, and I also offered to take photos of friends’ and neighbors’ dogs, which allowed me to learn how to work with different breeds and temperaments.

I also learned that outdoor shoots can be quite challenging sometimes when photographing dogs outside of their home environment, which can affect the mood and overall quality of the photos so overcoming some of these obstacles and establishing a reputation in a niche industry required lot’s of dedication and persistence.

When it comes to essential skills for a dog photographer, patience is at the top of the list. Dogs have their own agenda during a photoshoot, and it’s my job to adapt and be patient until I capture that perfect shot. Understanding canine behavior and body language is crucial in order to anticipate their movements and capture their natural expressions. It’s also important to have a good rapport with dogs and their owners, as it helps create a relaxed and comfortable environment during the shoot.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My journey as a pet photographer began with a passion for capturing the unique charm and spirit of my beloved dogs, creating lifelong memories for myself and ultimately for other people.

Currently, I offer on–location boutique style dog portraiture, pet event photography and commercial animal photography. Apart from my work with private clients, my commercial work has been published by HarperCollins Book Publishers (‘Prissy and Pop’ books), Cosmopolitan Magazine (‘internet’s most fascinating’) or West Elm in collaboration with ASPCA.

I take pride in the ability to capture the essence of my subjects and capturing the playful and endearing nature of a dog. My goal is to provide high-quality and visually appealing images that evoke emotions and resonate with my clients.

What sets me apart from others is my unique style, creativity, and ability to connect with my four-legged subjects. I’m a dog mom first and I know what makes them wag their tails and the best ways to encourage positive behavior during a shoot. I also feel confident in capturing images using specific lighting setups and composition to create a distinct look and feel in my work.

For potential clients, followers, or fans, I’d like them to know that I’m committed to providing a personalized experience, ensuring that my clients and their furry companions feel comfortable and confident throughout the process.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a pet portrait photographer is the ability to capture the unique personalities and emotions of dogs, bringing joy to their owners, creating art that celebrates their beauty, and contributing to the wider pet community. It’s a field that combines passion, creativity, and a deep appreciation for our four-legged friends, making every shoot a truly fun experience.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Yes, there are certain aspects of my journey as a photographer that non-creatives may struggle to understand. Anything from creating a vision for the shoot, the emotional connection I sometimes develop with my subjects, the relentless pursuit of perfection that I often struggle with to self criticism. But at the end I know it doesn’t diminish the value of my work or the passion I bring to it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.petraterova.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petrat_dogphoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petratdogphoto
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petraterova/

Image Credits
all photos ©Petra Terova