Jim
Thanks for the kind words. Don't get me wrong, many vets LOVE their work. It was just not the right place for me:(

Bev,
it's not a question of loving the work; it's a matter of not being allowed to practice good medicine and actually help the majority of the animals. The worst words a veterinarian can hear are "I can't afford to save him so put him down." My reaction is always "I can't afford to lose him. How can we keep him alive?" Even if I can't afford it financially. I will always find a way.

I understand your frustration. I would have reacted much the same way. Finding a place outside of veterinary medicine is probably the best of all worlds. I wish you continued success.

Jim

Jim
You are very kind. It's nice when others understand. Most people think it's a dream job and are very confused when I try to explain myself!!

Hey Guys,

Part II of Bev's interview was just published yesterday. It talks a bit about the financial aspects of being a pet photographer.

Cheers
James

Bev,
very interesting interview and it was good to see more of your work. To me, the two key comments were running the business as if it were a business and finding your creative niche.

We have always focused on the photography business from an economic point of view and I think we have a solid understanding of our cost/price ratios. I'm still struggling with establishing a singular creative identity. At least in the pet portraiture part of the business. There isn't much room for individual expression in the dog show formal business.

Thanks for your thoughtful comments and for helping me refocus my creative side.

Jim

Jim
You are very kind! I agree that "dog show formal" wouldn't be very excited to see me show up!

I accept every job or proposition based on whether it furthers my brand and creative style. Not always easy but I'm hoping it pays off in the end!

Happy shooting! Woof!
Bev

Dog show formal is documentary, not really creative. A whole other set of skills involved in it.

Now, dog show advertising photos can be really creative, as long as you have clients that appreciate it.

Here is one that has been used to advertise a dog that is not at all typical.

Julie
My point exactly. Each niche brings with it, it's own skill set and creative approach. If I showed up at a dog show I'm sure my images would look like snaps.

I wouldn't even know how to anticipate what would happen next. Would likely break a few rules (many:)), and would spend most of my time adjusting to the lighting!!

I didn't see an image attached to your post. I must be doing something wrong?
Bev

Cool to see your perspective on the business side.

BTW, are you coming to our group meeting later this month? I'll actually get to make it this time, but might leave early for a portrait session that afternoon.

There is no image in Julie's post, so you're not doing anything wrong.

Its there but, looks like the host has crashed, so, it can't be seen! When it comes back up I am sure it will show up. I went to edit it thinking I had lost my mind, and thankfully my mind is intact

I do not seek out event photography as it is too little money for the time invested. I do love to do the advertising portraits though. They are different than pet shoots, but, people do want something that stands out from the crowd.

Dog show photography takes a whole lot of organization, kahunas and ability to control mass chaos. None of which are truly strong points for me.