Confessions of a Pet Photographer
- Sandra Ferguson Photography
- 22 hours ago
- 2 min read
Let’s get real.
I’ve been drooled on by Great Danes.
Sat on by Mastiffs.
French kissed by Poodles.
Bit by Chihuahuas.
Completely ignored by Golden Retrievers who clearly had better things to do.
I’ve rolled into poop.
Sat in pee.
Been peed on—twice in one session. Same dog. No regrets.
Had my camera dragged off by an escape artist.
And once, a dog jumped into a lake mid-session, came back, and shook a tsunami of joy all over me and my gear.
And I still show up smiling.
Because pet photography isn’t about control & posing. It’s about chaos, life, and connection.

It’s about catching the small ear flicks & side eyes.
The tail wag mid-spin.
The “I love you but I’m gonna ignore you now” look.
I’ve worked with purebreds, designer dogs, mutts, rescues, seniors, puppies, and pets who think I’m just another chew toy.

I’ve put squeakers in my mouth, toys under arm, and flailed with purpose, all while a Chihuahua in pearls gave me the “try harder” look from her throne of pillows.
And in the swirl of joyful mayhem?
Kisses from pitbulls.
Hugs from doodles.
Paw shakes and high fives that feel like trust.
Laughter from humans who didn’t know what to expect.
Zoomy spins, twirls and happy tails, “This is the best place ever”!

So yes, I’ve been peed on, bit and rolled in poop.
But I’ve also been chosen.
By pet parents who return with trust in their eyes. They know I’ll chase the zoomies, find the soul behind the bark, and turn chaos into keepsakes.
That’s the sweet spot. Your trust.
You’re the reason I prep like it’s game day. Camera charged. Treats packed. Heart tuned to joy.
Loyal clients. Four paws. My kind of beautiful.
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