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Through My Lens: What I’m Thinking

  • 6 days ago
  • 2 min read

When I’m photographing, it may look calm and effortless. But my mind is always moving, always calculating.


Two kittens in a photography studio photo session.


Pet parents are talking. Volunteers and wranglers are helping, talking and laughing. People are watching. I have to respond to all of them. And at the same time, I’m thinking…







  • Shutter speed. ISO. Aperture. Focus. Lights in position.

  • Is this hard to edit?

  • Is that expression going to hold?

  • Will the dog move in a way that changes the shot?

  • How did I change settings?

  • Is it going to be hard to edit later?

  • What are my lights set on?

  • The backdrop is messed up.

  • Is this hard to edit?

  • The handler is too close.

  • My nose hits the screen and moves the focus point.

  • Where are my noise makers?

  • This editing is going to be a nightmare.


That is just some of my thoughts. I’m adjusting settings, playing with the dog, talking to people, moving myself, and thinking ahead to the next moment — all at once.


Sometimes, something feels off. The light, the angle, the dog’s attention. I notice it, adjust it, and keep moving. I want the image to be correct in the camera.



A black dog posing in studio with Sandra Ferguson Photography. Fine Art Portrait Artist

That is worth repeating. I want the image to be correct in the camera. Right there, during the session. So that I do not spend hours behind the computer editing.


All of this is happening in a quiet mental rhythm, so the session feels effortless to those watching. But every frame you see is the result of constant observation, split-second decisions, and a deep understanding of animals, light, and people.



Fine art pet photography isn’t just about pointing a camera. It’s about awareness, anticipation, education, experience and the invisible decisions happening in every moment. That’s what makes each portrait unique.

Every photograph you see is the quiet result of a mind in motion, a heart tuned to animals, and hands that know exactly what to do.


Next time, I’ll take you even deeper behind the lens — stay tuned.



"Created with patience. Captured with heart."






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