Exotic pet photographs by Rubicat

Tammy Raabe Rao started as a print production artist and later decided to expand her skills into freelance graphic design and photography, specializing in in-home pet photography among other things.

How did you get started as a pet photographer?
I've always loved animals, and I've always loved photography. The two coexisted quietly until, in 2003, I photographed Murphy, a gorgeous Maine Coon kitten for a friend of mine. My friend then persuaded me to become an official pet photographer.

It can be very hard to get animals to stay still, how do you do it?
When photographing animals, I always have their person with me. I generally give them time to sniff around and get used to the surroundings, and then I'll have the human place them into the desired spot. I often use various sounds to get the pet's attention, but usually it's just a matter of being patient, taking a ton of shots, and bribing with lots of treats. :)

Can you get animals to pose?
Some animals will be posed; I volunteer for Underdog ResQ, which is a foster-based rescue organization specializing in misunderstood breeds (pit bulls, mastiffs) and dogs in jeopardy. Many of the foster homes are very adept at training their dogs, so the dogs will sit, stay, and do a cute trick. It's a wide range, really: some animals will only give me "casual shots," while others will patiently endure being posed in ridiculous outfits.

What was your most challenging project? The most fun one?
My most challenging project and my most fun project ended up being the same! In Fall 2007 I was hired by a publisher to take photos of well-dressed cats, to be featured in a book. For two months I had to find and photograph around 60 cats dressed in everything from burlesque-style outfits to elegant evening gowns. I created many of the outfits, and had to find cats that were comfortable with being dressed up. Of course, cats being cats, many were rather offended at being made to wear sequins, and many took a long time to sit still. However, it was a lot of fun, and the book would have been a hit. The publisher, however, decided the dressed-up pet bookshelf was "oversaturated," so the book never quite made it to print.

How long does the average photo session last?
An average session will take about an hour and a half. The first 15 minutes tends to be sniff-time, where the dog gets to know his surroundings. Or, if it's a small animal or a cat, I just sit and let the animal get used to the idea of me being there. Depending on what the person wants, we set up a few different shots. My portraiture is quite casual, so the sessions can vary depending on whether the client is seeking a family portrait or a holiday card shot.

What should people know before they bring their pet to be photographed?
I do not have an actual studio, so most of my portraits are done either at my clients' home or in my apartment. Sometimes sessions are held at a nearby park. The main goal is to keep the pet comfortable, since a nervous pet will be too stressed to be photographed. Of course, some pets may require extra people to help with the shoot, but in general, I always allow my clients to reschedule sessions if their pet is having a bad day.

Is there anything people should do before they bring their pet?
Pet portraiture is a highly personal endeavor, since most pets are members of the family. Before you set up a portrait session, know what you're trying to accomplish, and be prepared to be in the photos with your pet. Wear neutral, simply-styled clothing that won't be dated when you view the photos ten years from now. Groom your pet if needed, and make sure the collar isn't frayed (some get a simple collar for the session). Bring treats and toys, or anything that will show your pets' personality.

For more info:

Rubicat site

Rubicat on Facebook

Rubicat's photoblog

Underdog ResQ 2010 calendar (featuring photography by rubicat)