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I’ve heard it a thousand times – “I don’t want to photograph pets!”    Well, if you’re one of those people who’s had that attitude it’s time to think again.  Pets are number three behind Brides and Babies as the third most popular subject matter for people to hire a professional photographer. 

Take it one step further:  “Three-quarters of dog owners consider their dog like a child or family member and more than half of cat owners say the same…Americans own approximately 73 million dogs, 90 million cats, 139 million freshwater fish, 9 million saltwater fish, 16 million birds, 18 million small animals and 11 million reptiles.”*

The market potential is huge. 

  “…gift giving to pets continues to rise with eight out of 10 dog owners buying dog gifts and 63 percent of cat owners purchasing gifts for the family feline.”*

Still think it doesn’t make sense?  Check out Ann Hamilton’s work and her workshops on pet photography.  Then, if you’re still not convinced read Kay Eskridge’s Guest Post from a few days ago about her Paws for a Cause program.  If I still haven’t successfully got you fired up to photograph pets now and then, visit Vicki Taufer’s site.  Vicki set the original standard with her annual pet event utlizing it both as a cause she wanted to support and a way to bring more people into her studio.

Pets create an exciting opportunity for you to diversify your business, but still stay within your comfort zone as a professional photographer.   And these days it’s not about survival of the fittest, it’s about survival of the most creative!

*PetPlace.com; courtesy of American Pet Products Manufacturers Association

Photograph by Bambi Cantrell