I have long desired a professionally shot portrait of Little Bit, photojeanie’s inspector of quality control. I emphasize professional, as there is no shortage of photographic evidence of Little Bit’s irresistible mug – iphoto alone possesses 1426 images and that only covers the past 5 years. However, I had yet to encounter an example of pet photography that truly captured the character and personality of the subject within a studio setting. That was until I spied Tonya Pet Photography’s card on display at St. Mark’s Veterinary Hospital.
I have observed Tonya’s flyer countless times while waiting for Bitty’s credit card receipt to be printed. Bit, like his mother is slightly high maintenance, so the thought of spending big bucks on a professional pictorial, no matter how gorgeous the samples, seemed unattainable and indulgent. I was completely erroneous in that assumption. Tonya’s rates are quite reasonable and she donates a percentage of the fee to an animal charity or rescue! How philanthropic is that?! And as an added incentive she is offering a Valentine’s Day special. Who wouldn’t be head over heels with a spectacular portrait of a four-legged sweetheart?
Financial accessibility aside, Tonya is an astute and talented pet photographer. Her images are beautifully aesthetic and simple – not in a plain way, but in a design savvy fashion. The color background seems to enhance the subject not compete and allowing for the animal’s true character to emerge. And sometimes, the personality of the pet isn’t face focused; it is the curl of a tail, the fold of an ear, the underside of the paw that distinguishes your pet. One of my favorite views of Little Bit is when he is laying flat on his stomach, front legs splayed out and his rear ones form a perfect rectangle – they kind of remind me of those gargantuan turkey legs at Disney World.
Tonya’s technical skill coupled with her patience and passion in what she is doing enables her to create an intimate, personable and engaging two-dimensional version of your very alive and lovable furry baby. I had the privilege of meeting Tonya while waiting for the Bit Monster to have some diagnostic test run (b/c Bit can’t possibly leave the Vet without making his mark – in currency and cuteness). It is easy to see why her animal subjects respond so positively. She is charming, caring and excited by her craft.
I can’t wait to schedule Little Bit’s session. After all, what could be a better than aValentine of my baby boy that I can admire every day of the year?
May cupid’s arrow strike you down.
xxoo.
Leave a Reply