The Art of Pet Photography

From playful chaos to stillness and poise, learn how to photograph your pets with emotion, depth, and clarity. In this new online seminar, photographer Shaina Fishman shares her approach to working with animals, offering tools, techniques, and insights that help you photograph pets and other small domesticated creatures with greater impact and intention. Whether capturing spontaneous interactions or producing a more staged concept, Shaina supports you in refining your vision and expanding your creative process.

This three-hour seminar opens with Shaina’s story, beginning with her entry into this unique niche, the evolution of her visual style, and the ongoing development of her creative process. Her journey offers a fresh perspective and encourages you to approach your own photography with curiosity and confidence. From there, the session moves into what it takes to create strong images when working with unpredictable subjects. You learn how to navigate a range of temperaments, plan around limitations, and adapt to changing situations. Shaina shares techniques for directing your subject, whether you’re working solo or with an assistant, and explores different shooting styles, from spontaneous, documentary-style moments to more composed and controlled setups.

Next, you shift into the technical aspects of pet photography, including gear, camera settings, lighting choices, and techniques for working effectively in a range of environments. Shaina shares diagrams of reliable studio lighting setups and offers practical tips for making the most of natural light when studio equipment isn’t available. The program concludes with insights into editing and retouching, explaining how thoughtful image selection shapes a series, how post-processing supports your creative vision, and how even an unexpected frame can become the strongest shot.

By the end, you leave with a sharper eye and a toolbox full of techniques to help you capture pets in all their unpredictable, unforgettable glory.