How to Find Pet Photography in Southeast TN That is Right for You
Choosing pet photography in southeast Tennessee might seem like just another thing on your to-do list, but let’s be honest – it’s kind of a big deal. Your pet isn’t just a pet; they’re your snuggle buddy, your adventure partner, and let’s face it, probably your best friend.
So let’s keep it real: You’re not just looking for someone who knows their way around a camera. You’re looking for someone who gets it. Someone who gets them — the quirks, the chaos, the way your dog always knows the exact moment to stick their nose somewhere inappropriate…
Here’s how to make sure you pick a photographer who can deliver stunning images and make the process fun and stress-free.
Experience: Does Your Photographer Speak “Pet”?
Let’s start with the basics. A good pet photographer doesn’t just know how to take pictures—they understand animals.
They know how to read behavior, avoid stressors, and safely navigate unpredictable situations (because, let’s be real, most pets don’t follow directions like people do).
Ask your potential photographer about their experience with pets. Have they worked with pets like yours before? Do they know the difference between a “let’s play” bark and a “back off, buddy” growl? Their answer will tell you everything you need to know.
Patience and Flexibility: A Southeast TN Pet Photographer’s Secret Superpower
Pets don’t always play by the rules. Sometimes, they don’t even acknowledge the rules exist. If your pet thinks sitting still is optional, don’t worry—that’s normal. A great pet photographer knows how to roll with the punches—or, in some cases, the zoomies.
I’m talking about the kind of person who can smile through a surprise bath courtesy of a shaking wet dog and still get the image. They need to be able to adapt to your pet’s mood, energy level, and, let’s be honest, the occasional total disregard for authority.
Photographers who specialize in pets know that every animal is different. Some pets need time to sniff the camera, check out the props, or figure out why there’s a stranger in their space. Flexibility isn’t just helpful—it’s mandatory. A rigid photographer who can’t adapt? Big nope vibes. Huge.
Fun: Because Serious Photographers Are Boring
Let’s talk about the fun part. If you’re worried that a session of pet photography in southeast Tennessee will be awkward or stressful, let me stop you right there. I’ve had animals lick my camera. I’ve had puppies stand on my back while I’m taking pictures of their littermates and one overenthusiastic German Shepard that decided I needed a French Kiss mid-session. Spoiler alert: I didn’t.
The goal? Make the session enjoyable for everyone—especially your pet. When you’re laughing and relaxed, your pet picks up on those vibes. That’s when the magic happens, and we capture the real, unfiltered moments that make your heart melt.
And yes, I fully expect to leave your session with fur in places I didn’t know fur could go. It’s all part of the job. Let’s embrace the chaos, shall we?
Specialization in Pet Photography: Yes, It Matters
Here’s the deal: not every photographer is a pet photographer, and that’s okay. But when it comes to your four-legged bestie, you need someone who specializes in pets. Photographers who focus on animals know how to capture the essence of your pet while keeping safety and comfort top of mind.
Make sure to ask if the photographer is comfortable working with pets like yours. If they’ve only photographed dogs and you show up with your pet rabbit, that’s going to be awkward for everyone.
Do You Love Their Style?
Scroll through their portfolio. Do their photos make you gasp in a “wow, that’s gorgeous” kind of way? Or are you left thinking, “Well, that’s a choice”?
If you are dreaming of serious studio images with dark colors, hiring a photographer who specializes in bright colors and big personalities might not be a good fit for you.
If you’re dreaming of clean, timeless images or playful, personality-packed shots, make sure your photographer can deliver the goods.
Know What You Want: Wall Art or Just Instagram Likes?
Are you looking for a showstopping piece of wall art? Or do you just want cute pictures to show on Instagram?
Either way, knowing what you want helps narrow down your choices. I specialize in creating custom artwork that makes your walls pop—and guarantees you won’t find a thumb drive full of forgotten photos in a drawer five years from now.
Of course, just because I specialize in wall art doesn’t mean you don’t still get those Instagram images. Of course, you do! It’s just that it’s not the only thing!
Comfort is Key—for You and Your Pet
If your dog thrives on nature hikes but panics in new environments, a studio session might not be the vibe. Likewise, if your cat only tolerates existence from the comfort of your couch, a home session could be perfect.
Your pet’s comfort should guide the entire process because stressed pets don’t make great models (and stressed owners aren’t much better).
Ready to Make Some Magic?
Let’s plan a session that’s as stress-free as it is unforgettable.
Not quite ready to schedule your a pet photography in Southeast Tennessee session? No worries! Join the Ride the Sky Herd for pet photography tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes hilarity delivered straight to your inbox. Spoiler: There will be plenty of stories about pets doing ridiculous things.
Betsy Bird, Cr. Photog., CPP, of Ride the Sky Equine Photography spends her days doing insane things to make animals look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. Outside of acting like a total goofball, she invests in growing her business, mentoring photographers, dealing with her teenagers' angst, and hanging with Nitro, the best dog ever.
Betsy has earned her Photographic Craftsman degree from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) which honors photographers who contribute to the photographic industry through speaking, mentoring, and publishing. Betsy is also a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with PPA. The CPP designation is held by fewer than 2,500 photographers nationwide and is a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry, and professionalism.
She serves on the Board of Directors for the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) and the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association (TNPPA). She is also a professional member of the Equine Photographers Network (EPN).
Betsy's award-winning work has been featured in a variety of publications and is found throughout homes and stables in the United States. She is also the co-author of the book, Equine & Equestrian Photography Poses that Sell: The Ultimate Guide to Posing Horses & Humans. She has also been featured on Scenic Trend, the Profitable Photographer Podcast, Chrome Magazine, The Business Animal Podcast, Chatter Magazine, Cowgirls with Cameras Podcast, the Chattanooga Times Free Press, the Chattanoogan, and the Focal Points Podcast to name a few.
Ride the Sky specializes in on-location photography for equines and pets. Based in Chattanooga, TN, Ride the Sky Equine Photography works in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond.