You have to follow what the animal gives you

Interview with Joanna Surman, founder of Rudy Kadr, who has been photographing dogs and cats for seven years. We talk about the challenges of animal photography.

How did you start photographing animals?

My husband introduced me to photography, while I had always loved animals. I combined both interests and initially photographed animals from shelters and foundations for adoption listings. That is where I learned to work with dogs and cats.

Where should a beginner start?

Start with your own pet, whose behaviour you already know. Volunteering for a shelter is also excellent experience because you meet very different personalities: trained, shy, energetic or difficult animals. Patience and observation are essential.

Do you need behavioural knowledge?

I started without much formal knowledge, but over time I learned from books and webinars. Cats and dogs need different approaches. Entering an animal's territory as a stranger requires calm behaviour and respect for its signals.

Can some animals be unsuitable for a session?

Severe fear or aggression can make a full session impossible. Cats often need more time to accept a stranger; some hide, while others immediately inspect the camera bag. With nervous dogs, safety and gentle movements come first.

What about very active models?

Energy often comes from age and character. I once photographed a young corgi by the sea and spent much of the session running with it. In these cases I involve the owner and treat the session more like a reportage of a walk than a static portrait.

What is different about dogs and cats?

I usually photograph dogs outside and cats at home. Home is the cat's safe territory, while dogs often enjoy a longer walk and natural light.

How do you make animals look toward the camera?

Food and toys. For cats I carry balls, feather toys and catnip; for dogs I use treats and squeaky toys, preferably including their own favorites.

Do you direct the scene?

Only partly. A lot of my work is observation. With dogs I follow what happens during the walk and use toys or treats when a portrait opportunity appears. With cats I spend more time letting them get used to me. In the end, the photographer has to follow what the animal offers.

Is it easier indoors or outdoors?

Both have advantages. Outdoors you have seasons, golden hour, fog and changing colors. Indoors you may face small or dark rooms, but you can create a warm, intimate atmosphere with the owner and pet.

Is flash useful in animal photography?

Yes, especially for freezing movement, but it must be used carefully. With an Up! X 300 and a large softbox I could freeze the moment a dog caught a treat while keeping the light soft and safe. Avoid directing a strong bare flash straight into the animal's eyes.

For mobile assignments I use a Stroboss V1 with a Quadralite Litebox 50×50 cm. The set is compact and can work both indoors and outside.

Advice for beginners and pet owners?

Be patient and practice, but keep the process enjoyable. At home, find good window light and position the animal so light reaches the face. Use treats or toys and burst mode. Let an active cat play before the session; teach a dog basic commands. Acclimatize the pet to camera sounds and lighting equipment.

What is the animal-photography market like in Poland?

It is growing. More brands need images of dogs for advertising and more owners are willing to book professional sessions. Dog photography is more established, while cat photography remains a smaller and interesting niche.

How should an owner prepare a pet?

An active dog can be walked before the session or the walk itself can become the session. Do not overfeed beforehand if treats will be used. Grooming may be useful for breed-focused photographs, but natural appearance is often best. For cats, prepare their familiar food and toys.

More of Joanna's work: <https://www.instagram.com/rudykadr/>

Watch our autumn photo walk with dogs: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sPautEO8Jw>