64ÌåÓý

Who can resist the charm of pet imagery? Despite Anna only being an 64ÌåÓýcontributor since 2024, she has captured the world of our furry friends with photos that will appeal to any animal lover. Whilst Anna’s images undoubtedly have the ‘cute’ factor, she has made it her mission to portray the unique characteristics and captivating allure these animals have.

Carry on reading to discover how Anna combined her two passions, how she observes animals to capture the perfect moment, and her advice for finding your own niche within photography.

CG: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you became an animal photographer?

AA: I’ve been drawn to both animals and photography since childhood. I first picked up a camera at around 12 years old, experimenting with capturing the personalities of our family pets, and I quickly became hooked. Over time, I realised photographing animals was the perfect way to combine my two passions. Capturing a creature’s essence whether it’s the curiosity in a cat’s eyes or the joy in a dog’s playful leap, brings me a deep sense of fulfilment. So, I chose to specialise in animal photography aiming to create portraits that celebrate the unique spirit, and personality of each animal I photograph. For me, it’s more than just taking pictures — it’s telling a story about each animal and creating memories that bring joy to their owner.

CG: Your collection has a mix of studio and location shots. Are there any advantages or disadvantages to either of these settings?

AA: Both settings have their unique benefits and challenges. In the studio I have full control of lighting, backgrounds, and angles, which allows me to focus on precision and detail. Studio settings are perfect for refined austere portraits, where every element can be adjusted to make the animal stand out. However, the studio environment can sometimes feel unfamiliar to animals which may affect their comfort and natural behaviour.

That’s why I also love shooting on location. Outdoors, animals tend to be more at ease and natural. The surroundings add a sense of depth and personality to the shot. The downside, of course, is working with unpredictable factors like weather and lighting. But when everything aligns the results are often magical — showing animals in their element, whether they’re playing, exploring, or simply relaxing.

CG: How do you capture the unique characteristics of the animals you photograph?

AA: To capture an animal’s unique personality, I start by observing them, often even before the camera comes out. Every animal has its quirks. Some are shy, whilst others are energetic or curious. I look for those little expressions or gestures that reveal who they are, whether it’s a quick glance, a tilt of the head, or the way they engage with their surroundings. I also like to ask owners about their pet’s habits and preferences, which helps me tailor the session to make the animal feel comfortable and confident. For example, if a dog loves the water, I might take them to a lake or beach to let them express that joy naturally. I find that creating a relaxed environment where the animal can be itself is key to capturing authentic unique shots.

CG: What is your favourite image in your 64ÌåÓýcollection?

AA: Choosing one favourite image is tough as each photo holds a memory of a special moment or personality. However, I tend to favour images that capture a raw and joyful expression — like a dog racing through water, eyes wide with excitement, or a cat intently observing its surroundings. These types of shots do more than just capturing an animal’s look, they reveal its personality and create an emotional connection with the viewer. My 64ÌåÓýcollection is carefully curated to showcase these moments, where the animal’s essence really shines through. Every image is chosen because it tells a story that I believe will resonate with others, not just as a photograph but as a lasting memory of that animal’s spirit.

CG: Any advice for beginner photographers on finding their niche?

AA: My advice for beginners is to follow your natural passions. Photography takes patience and dedication, so choose a subject you genuinely love. If animals inspire you, spend time observing their behaviour and learning what makes them comfortable. Practice is essential, experiment with different styles, lighting, and settings to find what feels right. Don’t worry too much about making mistakes, every session teaches you something valuable. Also, bring empathy to your work — animals sense it, and they respond to genuine care and respect. Finding a niche is often about discovering what you enjoy most, so keep exploring until you find that connection that makes each shoot feel rewarding.

We hope you enjoyed Anna’s interview as much as we did and if you need more inspiration for getting into pet photography you can check out our top tips blog here.

If you’re an animal enthusiast don’t forget it is national pet day on the 11^{th of} April, and we would love to see your adorable pet images on our socials or in our monthly POTM which can enter . Tag us in your posts #AlamyPets. 

You can check out the rest of Anna’s 64ÌåÓýcollection here and keep up to date with her on Instagram and website .