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For the past year, I’ve been volunteering at Paws & Prayers Pet Rescue, a local Ohio animal shelter, and it’s been one of the most rewarding parts of my photography business. If you’ve ever thought about volunteering at your local shelter (or you just want a behind-the-scenes peek at what it’s like) this post is for you. And if you’re looking for an adoptable pet, all of these photos are from my most recent visit!

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How’d I Get Started?

When I was in college, I volunteered regularly at the local Humane Society. As someone who grew up around dogs and cats and couldn’t exactly have one in my dorm room, I loved the chance to work with the animals and help take care of them as they awaited their forever homes. 

Years later when I was starting my photography business, I knew I wanted to get involved again. I also knew how a good photo went a long way in helping the pets get adopted and thought volunteering my photography services at a local shelter was the perfect way to combine these two passions.

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What I Do When I Volunteer

When I have some spare time, I arrange with Paws & Prayers to visit their shelter or an adoption event to photograph the dogs and cats. I then send them the photos, and they update the adoptable pets’ profiles on their website. 

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Why These Photos Matter So Much

I know this sounds simple – and it totally is, but I also think it has a pretty big impact! 

I think we’ve all scrolled through available pets on Pet Finder or the local shelter’s website and seen some… interesting… photos of adoptable pets. Photos that don’t capture the pet’s big, goofy personality or tug at the heart strings of potential adopters making them think “OMG I CAN’T BELIEVE HOW CUTE THIS PET IS I NEED THEM IN MY LIFE.” 

That instant connection, gotta-meet-this-pet-in-person feeling is the goal with my volunteer work. I sit with the adult cats in their free-roaming room and chill long enough that even some of the shy friends get comfortable and curious enough to have their photo taken. The workers bring the dogs out to their fenced area to play so we can show potential adopters their silly side. Long-time residents get fresh photos of themselves to help pull in potential adopters. It’s all about giving these pets a better shot. 

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Tips for Photographers Volunteering with Animal Shelters

1. Reach out first. Contact your local shelter and ask if they need photography help. Most do!
2. Use continuous lighting. I use the Lume Cube Panel Mini –  it’s small, portable, and doesn’t startle the animals.
3. Stay safe and supported. When photographing dogs, always work with a staff member. Some dogs jump or get excited, and you’ll often be kneeling or squatting – protect yourself and your camera!
4. Consider silent shutter mode. Some pets get nervous with your camera’s clicking sound.
5. Try not to fall in love. Okay, maybe do – but don’t say I didn’t warn you.