We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cassie Krause. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cassie below.

Hi Cassie, thanks for joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

After spending a decade in the field of animal training, I discovered something profound: while animals may not speak in words, they communicate in ways that are often far more powerful. Their personalities, quirks, and unique traits shine through in their body language, their eyes, and their energy. This realization became the foundation for my mission as a pet photographer—to give animals a visual voice.

My journey into photography began as a natural evolution after leaving the animal training world. I had spent years understanding and working with animals, developing a deep respect for their individuality. When I transitioned to photography, I knew my purpose wasn’t just to take beautiful pictures; it was to capture the essence of each animal, to showcase what makes them truly special.

My goal is simple: to give pets and their families memories they can cherish forever. While I admire posed photography for its beauty and precision, my heart lies in lifestyle photography. I’m drawn to those raw, candid moments when pets are just being themselves—quirky, energetic, sometimes chaotic, but always real. Whether they’re chasing a ball, lounging in the sun, or refusing to sit still, these are the moments that reveal their true character. And it’s these moments I strive to capture.

Too often, we take countless pictures of our pets on our phones, but rarely do we have images where we are together with them, sharing the special bond we cherish. My mission is to change that. Pets are family, and I want them to be included in every milestone, from birthdays and engagements to weddings and even those everyday, yet precious, moments like Taco Tuesday. If it’s important to you, it’s important to me—and I’m here to freeze those memories in time, with your pets right there by your side.

In essence, my photography is about more than just capturing a pet’s likeness; it’s about honoring their role in your life. Pets have a way of making life richer, more joyful, and undeniably unique, and it’s my mission to ensure that their visual voice is heard and celebrated for years to come.

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

For those who may not know me, I’m a local pet photographer who transitioned into this field after spending 10 years in the animal training world. My mission is simple: to give animals a visual voice through photography. I focus on capturing the unique personalities of pets, particularly the quirky, energetic ones who might not sit still for a posed picture. Rather than relying on static, formal shots, I prefer lifestyle photography that shows pets in their natural, playful state. Whether it’s a pet-only session or one that includes the whole family, my goal is to create images that truly reflect the bond you share with your pets.

What sets me apart is my dedication to including pets in every important event of a family’s life, from birthdays and weddings to everyday moments. I’m proud to offer a service that fills that gap, ensuring that pets are part of these lasting memories. My work is deeply personal, and I strive to create authentic, customized photography that celebrates the love between people and their pets in the most meaningful way possible.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been building personal connections with my clients and their pets. By focusing on lifestyle photography that captures the genuine personality of each animal, I create images that resonate emotionally with pet owners. Word-of-mouth has been incredibly powerful in this industry, as satisfied clients share their experiences with others who value their pets as family members. My approach to making each session feel tailored to the individual pet’s personality and the family’s unique bond helps build lasting relationships, encouraging referrals and repeat business.

Additionally, showcasing my work on social media has played a key role in reaching new clients. By sharing behind-the-scenes moments and highlighting the stories behind each session, I’ve been able to connect with potential clients who see the value in my authentic, lifestyle-focused approach. Clients are drawn to the idea that I can capture the spontaneity and joy of their pets, which sets my work apart from more traditional posed pet photography. This combination of personal connections and consistent online presence has been essential to my business growth.

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

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative in pet photography is the ability to capture the true essence and personality of each animal and witness the emotional connection that families feel when they see their beloved pet’s spirit come to life in an image. Pets aren’t just companions; they’re integral members of the family, and being able to preserve that special bond is incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about creating a visually appealing photo—it’s about freezing a moment that genuinely reflects the heart of that relationship, knowing those images will be cherished for years to come. Meeting new people through this work is an added joy. Every family and pet brings a unique story, and I love building that connection during our sessions, which adds even more meaning to the images I create.

Working with animals who are energetic, spirited, or perhaps a little mischievous is especially rewarding for me. I thrive on the challenge of capturing what makes each pet unique, whether they’re playful, shy, or full of personality. When I finally sit down to edit those photos, it brings me immense satisfaction to bring those moments to life. The process of refining the images to show each pet’s individuality is a creative outlet that I deeply enjoy. Ultimately, knowing I’ve provided families with a visual memory that authentically represents their pet’s personality and the love they share is what makes this work so special to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cassiekrausephotography.com
• Instagram: knoxvillepetphotographer
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cassiekrausephphotography