I am delighted to have won “Pet Photographer of the Year” award at the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers (SWPP) annual awards ceremony at the Novotel Hammersmith in London. With two out of the three nominated images for the final judging in the category I was always hopeful but it was still a surprise when my name was read out by Juliet Jones, SWPP managing director. I was too excited to hear any of the judges’ comments being read out by co-host Phillipa Forrester as I made my way to the stage. The next few minutes really were a blur!

The winning image is even more special for me, as it is a portrait of our own Cocker Spaniel – extra treats for him.

We provide an ‘at home’ photo shoot service for animal lovers in Scotland. Have a look at our Pet Photography in Scotland page on our site for further details. Keep checking back, as I will be updating the pet page soon with more images and offers.

With this image, I used a single speedlite fitted with a stofen omnibounce diffuser and a small softbox (without diffusion panel) directly in front of Doogle at about 45 degrees to give a nice contrasty sheen on his black fur. In front of a black backdrop I had Doogle sit while I placed a treat near his front paws. He is reasonably well trained and I knew he would look at the treat and then glance up at me without moving his head waiting for the command to grab it. This gave the “pose” I was aiming for that brings his ears and nose together while his eyes are clearly the focal point of the image.

I could have made a “cute” dog photograph, but I like dark and dramatic pet portraits so I emphasised the darkness by adding the negative space above Doogle’s head. It also leaves plenty of space for typesetting – for a motivation poster perhaps?

Doogle the Cocker Spaniel

Having had one of last year’s pet portraits come in as a runner up in the annual awards, and with a run of three gold awards in a row for November, January and February (there was no competition in December) I am allowing myself a bit of optimism for this year! Now I have to work at submitting another image. I have the chance to photograph ten German Shepherd puppies together, so perhaps that will be the next project – I think I might try for “cute and cuddly” this time though

If you would like a pet portrait of your dog – or cat, mouse, monkey… get in touch using the link for the contact form to the right or call us on 0141 416 5141.

Award winning pet image

We currently have a great offer on our ‘at home’ photo sessions, for people as well as pets! Contact us for more information.