Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Romig.

Hi Katie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

I’ve been interested in photography for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until college that I developed my focus on dogs as a subject! I didn’t have a dog of my own at the time (living in a dorm has its downsides), but was lucky to have lots of friends and family around with willing models. As the years passed, and I saw many of these dogs pass as well, I was really struck by just how little time we have with them. It became more and more important to me that I was able to preserve these dogs and their memories accurately, and I developed more of a focus on the heart and personality of man’s best friend. My hope is always that when you see a photo I took, you have a sense of the subject- that living, breathing being- outside of just that second in time.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

It’s definitely had its challenges! Turning art into a business is never without its challenges, and that’s especially true when it comes to photography. I’ve often fallen victim to impostor syndrome, struggled to find clients, and gotten into ruts where I just don’t like any of the shots I’ve taken in weeks. The last one is particularly tricky to overcome when I can’t articulate *why* I’m not happy with my work, or when it’s out of my control- the weather wasn’t great, or the location wasn’t what I had in mind, or the dogs themselves were in a funk that day. I’ve found that it’s helpful at those times to go back to basics and focus on my own dogs! I never have to worry about a client being unhappy if I’m just working for myself, and I can just try new things without a session fee on the line. Talking through these issues with fellow photographer friends helps, too!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

I always say I specialize in photos of your dog at their best! To me, that means prioritizing your dog’s comfort and happiness during their photo shoot. I want to make sure that we capture your favorite parts of your dog’s personality- their joy-filled face, regal demeanor, or silly playfulness that always makes you smile. That means making thoughtful recommendations for locations where your dog will feel comfortable, packing the smelliest treats I can find, and tailoring the poses and framing to your particular pooch. I strive to deliver beautiful, bright memories that capture your dog as accurately as possible.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?

As you might have seen, I’m pretty new to the area! I moved up from Texas last July and I’ve found so many things to love about Lake County. Having all four seasons has been so fun (even though I’ve needed to heavily invest in heated blankets, vests, and hand warmers), and I can’t wait for a temperate spring and summer. I’ve also fallen in love with the forest preserves! There’s such a wide variety of natural locations and trails that I have no shortage of unique backdrops to suit any dog. I’ve had so much fun exploring them all with my own duo and I’m so excited to see them in all seasons.
As for what I like least- the snow keeps melting! I’m a firm believer that if it’s going to be freezing cold outside, there should be plenty of snow on the ground. Other than that, I can’t think of any downsides!

Pricing:

• 300- Standard session fee

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.katieromig.photography/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katieromig.photo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katieromig.photo