When passion meets purpose, magic happens—and for Award Winning pet photographer Rachel (owner of Furtography), that magic has four legs, a wagging tail, and often a goofy grin. What began as a hobby capturing human moments soon turned into a heart-led mission to tell the stories of our furry companions through the lens. From rescue shelters to windswept bush trails, her camera has followed dogs of every shape, size, and temperament—all with one goal: to preserve the joy, soul, and connection dogs bring to our lives. In this interview, we dig into the inspiration, quirks, and unforgettable moments that shape a life spent photographing man’s best friend.
1. What inspired you to start photographing dogs, and how did your love for them influence your journey?
I’ve been a dog lover for as long as I can remember—honestly, I get along with dogs better than most humans (no offence to the humans!). I started out as a people photographer, but everything changed when I began volunteering for a dog rescue, snapping adoption portraits to help pups find new homes. That’s when the lightbulb moment hit – I realised I had this knack for connecting with dogs, reading their vibes, and somehow convincing them to strike a pose. It wasn’t long before I traded human subjects for four-legged ones, and I haven’t looked back since!
2. How do you get dogs to feel comfortable and expressive during a photoshoot? Do you have any special tricks or treats?
I treat every shoot like a first date (minus the awkward small talk). Before the session, I ask loads of questions about the dog’s personality so I can match their energy from the moment we meet. Whether they’re a nervous Nellie or a bouncy ball of chaos, I want them to feel like they’ve just made a new best mate.
Before the camera even makes an appearance, I’m on the ground with them, patting, playing, and bribing them with treats. Once we’re mates, that’s when the magic happens. To capture head tilts and cheeky grins, I’ve got an arsenal of noisemakers… whistles, kazoos, squeakers, and I’m not afraid to make a total fool of myself with some truly bizarre noises I’ve perfected over the years.
3. What’s the most memorable dog you’ve photographed and why did that moment stick with you?
One that really stays with me is a senior dog I’d photographed a few times over the years. He didn’t have much time left, and by the final shoot, I’d built a lovely bond with him and a friendship with his humans. This time, his owners decided to jump in for a few portraits, something they hadn’t done before, and it turned into one of the most emotional sessions I’ve ever had.
There were tears (from all of us), but also so much love in the air. It was raw and real. Moments like that remind me just how much of an honour it is to capture not just the dog, but the connection they share with their people. These aren’t just photos, they’re memories frozen in time, and I’ll never take that for granted.
4. Have you ever captured a dog’s personality in a way that surprised even their owner? Can you share that story?
There was this happy-go-lucky goofball I photographed once. Her owner swore she didn’t have a serious bone in her body.
But during our shoot in the bush, there was this quiet little moment where she paused, sat perfectly still, and stared off into the trees like a wise old soul. I captured this beautiful, almost regal pose with a thoughtful expression, and her owner was floored. That image now hangs proudly on the wall beside one of her typical silly photos, perfectly showing off the full spectrum of her personality.
5. Do you find certain breeds of dog temperaments easier or harder to photograph, and how do you adapt to different canine characters?
It’s less about the breed and more about the individual dog’s temperament, though I’ll admit, the nervous or shy ones can be the trickiest. But I’ve had plenty of experience with anxious pups, and it really just comes down to patience, preparation, and tuning in to their comfort level. I take things slow, no sudden moves, no loud noises, and their humans are always close by for support.
Being a dog photographer isn’t just about clicking a button when they sit still. It’s about reading body language, knowing when to give space, when to gently engage, and when to just let them be a dog. That ability to adapt on the fly is a massively underrated part of the job, but it’s also what makes it so rewarding.
6. What are the top 3 things you love the most about being a dog photographer?
1. The dogs, obviously
Meeting so many amazing pups is the best part. I could happily spend hours just sitting in the grass, dishing out cuddles, belly rubs, and ear scratches. Honestly, it never gets old.
2. The creativity. I love capturing those unique little quirks and expressions that make each dog them. Whether it’s their majestic side or full-blown derpy mode, being able to show off personalities that most people struggle to capture themselves is such a joy.
3. The adventure. Chasing the best light and the most gorgeous backdrops takes me to stunning locations I might never have found otherwise. It keeps things fresh, gets me outdoors, and makes every session feel like a mini escape into nature.
Whether it’s a dignified senior soaking up their final sunset or a wild-eyed pup mid-zoomies, Rachel captures more than just images, she captures the pure essence of ‘mans best friend’. In every frame, there’s a celebration of the bond we share with dogs, and a reminder that sometimes, the best stories are told without words—just paws, patience, and a well-timed squeaker.
Visit ‘Furtography by Rachel’ website here
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