At Kelly J. Russo Photography, I believe in capturing your pet’s soul in imagery along with the special bond you share.
But have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes to bring all of this to life? Buckle up, pet parents because today I’m taking you on a behind-the-lens journey of a typical day in my photography business!
Morning Mission
Every morning, my day starts with a walk with my dogs, setting the tone for the rest of my day. As a photographer, it's not just about capturing moments but also about being in the right headspace. These walks are my chance to calm my mind, enjoy the beauty of nature, and bond with my own furry companions. Of course, in true dog fashion, our walks often take longer than expected—Houston's unpredictable weather might throw a curveball, but it's usually my dogs’ insistence on sniffing every blade of grass that turns our walks into a marathon. I often joke that my dogs must be writing a comprehensive scent map of the neighborhood!
Gearing Up!
Once my morning walk is complete, it’s time to gear up for the day. Preparing for a photoshoot involves a meticulous process to ensure all my equipment is in working order and top shape. I start by making sure all my batteries are fully charged and that my cameras and lenses are clean and ready to go. It's crucial that every piece of equipment is in perfect working order and this also included organizing backup cameras too!
I also take some time to check in on my client communications, confirming details and answering any last-minute questions. A quick glance at the weather forecast helps me plan for any adjustments needed due to Houston’s unpredictable weather. With everything in place, I'm ready to head out and make some magic happen with my camera.
What I Do and…What People Think I Do!
Many people think my job is all about playing with cute dogs and horses all day, but there's a lot more to it. A typical workday epitomizes the blend of creativity, technical skill, and client interaction that defines pet photography.
During a photo session, my mind is constantly whirring on a million little details such as adjusting my camera settings based on the light/dog movement or background, finding the spots for epic photos, and coaxing pets into the right poses. Patience is key, as animals have their own agenda. I might spend some extra time getting that one perfect shot, but it’s worth it for the joy it brings to my clients.
When I'm not behind the camera, I'm in the office often meeting with clients to discuss their photographic vision and preferences. This ensures the final photos align perfectly with their expectations. Other times, I'm at my desk editing photos, writing blog posts, marketing my business or updating my portfolio. Each aspect of my day, from client visits to post-processing, is crucial to delivering a memorable experience and stunning images.
Quality is in the Details
One of the most meticulous parts of my workday is photo editing. This is where I fine-tune every detail to bring out the best in each pet's portrait. I spend considerable time ensuring the colors are just right and that the details in the animals' fur are perfectly sharp. Capturing the glint in their eyes is essential—it adds life and personality to the photos. I also meticulously remove any slobber or eye boogies to ensure the final images are pristine. This level of precision makes a significant difference in creating stunning, memorable portraits that my clients will cherish.
Putting Work to Bed
As the day winds down, I take a moment to reflect on the work accomplished. My gear is cleaned and neatly packed away, ready for the next day's adventures. There's a quiet satisfaction in knowing I've captured moments that will bring joy to others. A day well-lived in the world of pet photography is a day filled with creativity, connection, and the rewarding feeling of having made a difference.
Day is done
Day is done, and work is wrapped up. Now, it's time for me to unwind and spend quality time with my family, friends, and, of course, my own pets. My ideal way to end the day involves a quiet evening walk or a relaxing moment on the couch usually with a good book, snuggled up with my dogs. This evening ritual is important to me as it helps me decompress and appreciate the simple joys in life, recharging my spirit for the next day.
Tomorrow is another day
Tomorrow is another day filled with new opportunities and special moments to capture. I hope you’ve enjoyed this small glimpse into my world as a pet photographer. Want to know even more? I'd love to share more about my work and how I can help create beautiful memories for you and your pets. Let’s talk!