Hi,
I was wondering if its too late in my life to become a dog photographer, I am 45 and I have worked with dogs all my life, in kennels, training and working dogs and I need a change in my life. I havent got a clue where to start though! I know no local dog photographers near me (Surrey way) to ask for advice.
Do I need to do a course? I dont have my own dog at the moment so I have no photographs to use as samples but I am like a sponge, very willing to learn.
Any advice please?
Yours Sincerley.
Carol Gordons.

Look into courses/evening classes at local colleges/unis/schools/adult learning centres locally. You'll need a natural ability, a good eye. It's not just about picking up a camera. You'll need to learn alot of technical stuff too. I modelled for a number of years and worked as a photographers assistant in my student days. My brother in law is a very successful photographer who works with a host of celebrities nationwide.
You're knowledge of dogs will give you an edge in this field if you master the trade. :) Please feel free to contact me if you'd like advice on qualifications to aim for, equipment to get you started etc 45yrs old is no age and shouldn't even be an issue. If you have a talent you should use it.

Good Luck! :)

And...if you're already a competent photographer let us know what part of the country you are in, I'm sure we have a variety of willing guinea pigs on the forum ;)

Me being one spook! :D I think you shopuld go for it! I was talking to a dog photographer for 'our dog' yesterday at a show and he said that its the best job in the world and that he loves it. Good luck if you decide to do it. I think that it would be really cool. And like spook said there are lots of guinea pigs on here willing for you to practise on there dogs!! :D

sarah xxxxx

I have a member of my family (who dropped out of his a level photography course after 18 months) to do my portraits and they always go down well in my puppy packs. New owners like to remember what mum and dad look like and i always send a pic of them at 7 weeks away with them.

My walls are covered with group portraits of my dogs. There is a big market for it, afterall, pixi photo make a killing with children in Boots i cant see dog owners being any different in wanting their doggy family members joining their wall of fame in the lounge!

Good luck with the venture!

Look on here for a member called Sam -she is a photographer ;)

That would be me catweazle :)

poster, pm me if you want info

It certainly seems very popular in USA especially photos with Santa at Christmas