Photographing happy pets for the people who love them
Hi, I’m Caitlin and I have the best job in the world!
Every day I get to pour my heart & soul into celebrating the joy that dogs bring to our lives.
Each pet I photograph is different.
Some are shy, others are silly. Some pets prance and pose for the camera, others need some time (and treats).
I have photographed thousands of dogs over the past fourteen years and they all have one thing in common . . .
They are family.
Personality filled portraits
with a natural style & patient approach
30 minute Session
1 dog* + their people
Williamstown or Geelong Botanic Gardens
First Sunday of every month
includes $50 Print Voucher
Shorter sessions that are perfect for clients wanting a smaller selection of photos.
*additional dogs may be added
$175
Afternoon Session
No time limits
Botanic Gardens + Beach
includes $200 Print Voucher
Signature Sessions are my most popular option. We start by exploring the park, capturing beautiful portraits and natural photos together while the sun sparkles through the leaves of the trees above.
Next we walk to the beach, for fun and zoomies and splashing through the waves. Your dog will have the BEST DAY EVER and I’ll be behind the scenes, capturing it all.
$450
Full Day Session
No time limits
Your choice of multiple locations
includes $400 Print Voucher
Designed to celebrate the everyday beauty of life with your dog. Most Dogumentary Sessions start at home to capture everything from their favourite spot on the couch, to playtime in the backyard, and the sweet way they shadow you from room to room.
We’ll grab the leash and head off for WALKIES - it could be a photographic exploration around your neighbourhood and favourite local park, or we could jump in the car and go for an adventure, taking your dog on a hike through the bush or into the city.
Every Dogumentary Session is different. We'll plan it together so it's the perfect day to capture your dog's happiness.
$800
“I believe that the best photographs come from letting dogs be dogs.
No stressful poses, no stark studios, no cringy costumes.
Just happy dogs, outside, loving life.”
three steps to
YOUR PAWFECT PHOTOSHOOT
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STEP ONE: PLANNING THE SESSION
Get in touch and we'll have a chat so I can learn all about your furkids. Then together we can plan the right session and location for your shoot. I'll also guide you through what to wear, what to bring and how to prepare.
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STEP TWO: THE PHOTOSHOOT
On the day of our photoshoot, I'll start by getting your pets used to me and my equipment. Each pet I photograph is different. Whatever their behaviour, training & personality, rest assured that I have photographed thousands of animals over the past fourteen years and I've never met a pet I couldn't photograph beautifully!
Once they're comfortable, we'll start photographing. I work outdoors with the natural light and pride myself on an extremely patient approach. No stress and no time limits, just lots of play, treats, fun and cuddles! If you're up for getting in front of the camera, I also love to create really natural, unposed portraits that celebrate the bond my clients share with their dogs.
At the end of our session, we'll have a look through some of the artwork and album options so you get a feel for the beautiful printing quality. Then we'll tee up a time for your online Session Reveal appointment.
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STEP THREE: THE SESSION REVEAL
Back in the office, I work closely with my retoucher Amanda over the next week to get your photographs ready for our online Session Reveal. These take place over Zoom (feel free to rock your comfy clothes!)
We'll pick your favourite portraits and I'll help you choose the right prints and products to suit your home, style and budget. Everything is handcrafted here in Australia using the highest quality printing techniques, guaranteed to last 75+ years.This is my life's purpose.
To create art that brings a smile to your face for many, many years to come.
Ready to learn more?
“Caitlin is so talented! We really cannot express how much we love the results of our shoot!
The whole process was enjoyable and Caitlin went above and beyond every step of the way, from getting the perfect shot to communicating after the shoot, answering questions, making adjustments and allowing us to be flexible with our payment plan.
Such attention to detail and so professional, thorough and a pleasure to work with. You can tell she loves what she does and puts her heart and soul into her art and her business!! Cannot recommend highly enough.”
- CARLY R.
PRINTS + PRODUCTS
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All session include a print voucher to use at your Session Reveal. Prints, wall art, albums and digital files are all available to purchase at this online appointment.
I work with a wide range of budgets, styles and spaces. Most clients walk away with a framed piece on their wall and a beautiful keepsake album with 30-40 of their favourite portraits.
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Not a problem at all! While I specialise in Wall Art, I do also have some gorgeous products designed for those short on space. These include custom designed albums, unique timber print boxes, glass photo tiles and more.
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I’m glad you asked! I’m a big believer in printing your most precious photographs - after all, hard drives can and do fail, but printed images will continue to bring a smile to your face for many years to come.
That being said, I know you’re gonna want to show off your awesome photoshoot! That’s why I include a FREE digital copy of every photograph printed. That way you have the best of both worlds.
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Absolutely! I offer take home laybuy plans with Payright, so you don’t have to wait to enjoy your photographs.
I’m always happy to tailor a plan to suit your budget, so please don’t hesitate to ask.
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Unlike many professional photographic studios, I do not have a “minimum order requirement” - some of my clients order one special print for their wall, others walk away with a keepsake album, USB and gallery of framed prints! It’s my job (and ultimate mission) to design the perfect order that suits your unique home, space and budget.
READY TO LEARN MORE?
“Caitlin is sensational and simply the BEST! It was our first time having a natural outdoor photoshoot, so we did not know what to expect at all. Caitlin made it natural, relaxed and we had so much fun. We knew whenever she had captured the perfect moment because she would smile ear to ear with excitement. Her passionate energy is pretty contagious!
We loved our photoshoot, but the Session Reveal was our favourite heartwarming experience. It pulled at our heartstrings and we all cried tears of happiness and joy. Caitlin had captured Clark’s playful, adorable puppy eyes, cute head tilts, happy smiles and wagging tail. Thank you Caitlin - you have gone above and beyond our expectations! This is the BEST thing we have ever done as a family with Clark.”
- Clark’s Family (Leanne Kate, Leah, Fil and Aleczander)
“What’s the key to a successful pet photoshoot? Patience and love.”
Being a good pet photographer is a little bit about the photography, creativity and knowing your craft. But it’s a lot about the pet. My ultimate goal is to create images that captures the essence of your pet. Their soul, their personality, what makes them unique. Images that make you smile wide and say to yourself “Oh my god, that’s so them!”
In order to do this, I pour myself into connecting with the animal I am photographing. Forgive me a moment if I sound soppy (or even a bit nutty), for this is the simple truth. I can chit chat and change exposure, measure my light and location scout, but really what I’m doing at all times is carefully, intensely, getting to know your dog. Reading their expressions. Matching their energy. Coaxing out the confidence of a nervous boy, or happily meeting an excited girl in her enthusiasm.
Every movement I make, every word I say, is me trying to communicate “Hi, I am a friend. I see you. I appreciate you. Please, let me know you.”
It is my greatest honour to enjoy and share in even the tiniest part of the lives of so many dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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I specialise in natural light photography, working with the environment on the day to create bright, warm portraits.
In terms of poses/shots during a session, I'm all about variety for my clients. I love capturing everything from fun zoomie action shots, to beautiful close ups, silly candids to heartfelt family portraits. Sometimes I’ll direct and guide you, other times we’ll just see where the moment takes us.
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Pocket Sessions typically take around 30 minutes and Full Sessions take around 90 minutes. That being said, it really does come down to your pet. They will quickly pick up on human stress, so please feel free to ignore the clock - I work at your furkid’s pace.
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Not at all - I’ve photographed plenty of dogs with behavioural issues over the years. I always adapt my approach to suit the animal I’m photographing - for example, I tend to switch to a longer zoom lens for fearful or reactive doggos, as that allows me to create beautiful portraits from far away.
Please just get in touch and we can come up with a suitable plan for your pets.
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I’ll let you in on a secret - 95% of the dogs I photograph are on leash and most of them are total (lovable) nutcases.
I have all sorts of tricks up my sleeve to get the best out of your dog, so please don’t think they need to be obedience superstars.
They just need to rock up and be themselves - I’ll take care of the rest!
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The session fee covers the photoshoot itself (and pays my editor!), plus includes a print voucher for you to use at our online session reveal.
Prints, albums, wall art and digital filres are all available to purchase at this appointment.
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Web-sized digital copies are included FREE with every printed photograph. These are perfect for sharing and showing off your favourite images online.
‘High res’ digital files are also available to purchase - these are perfect for printing and archiving yourself.
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Yes, please! Kids + pets are one of my FAVOURITE kinds of sessions.
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If the weather isn’t great, we will definitely reschedule (there is no rescheduling fee).
Rescheduling can happen fairly frequently, especially during Winter and Spring - this is Melbourne, after all!
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I highly recommend that you do. I know that you might be feeling nervous about getting in front of the camera (and trust me - I totally get it!).
But here’s the thing. You are the most important part of your pet’s life. You are their everything. It really only makes sense that we capture and celebrate that bond.
I’m there to gently guide you if you’re feeling awkward (100% normal!) and I’m not about any cheesy or cringy poses. So yes, I do encourage my clients to get in the photos too. You won’t regret it!
MEET CAITLIN
Photographer. Author. Educator.
Animal Advocate. Mum
Carrier of dog treats + Snuggler of kittens
PHOTOGRAPHER
I was always going to be a photographer. It’s my love language - in moments of joy, my instinct has always been to reach for my camera.
It’s that instinct that lead me to start winning awards and exhibiting my work internationally by the age of 18. I studied fashion photography in New York and Melbourne. Photographing beautiful models was fun, but deep down I was aching for something more. More meaningful, more passionate, more SOUL.
And so, in 2010, I launched Ragamuffin Pet Photography. Twelve years later, my days are spent creating soulful portraits for pet lovers, and I couldn't be happier!
AUTHOR
I published my first book, Tails of Melbourne, back in 2015. Since then, I've published four more fundraising coffee table books: Tails of Tasmania, Tails of Friendship, Tails of Adoption, and Pug Hugs & Wrinkled Love.
I'm currently working on my sixth book, Short & Sweet, filled with the adorable and hilarious dachshunds of Melbourne!
You can purchase copies of my book from the Online Bookstore
EDUCATOR
I have the best job in the world - but it took many years to get here. That's why I am so passionate about sharing my knowledge.
In 2018, I co-founded the International Pet Photographers Club, connecting thousands of photographers around the world.
My educational specialities are coaching photographers on how to grow a heartfelt business and teaching pet owners how to take better photos
ADVOCATE
I am a passionate advocate for animals in need and have raised over $20,000 for animal rescue charities with my books and calendars.
In 2016, I founded the Tails of the World Collective .
The Collective is made up of professional photographers from all around the world, all fundraising by publishing their own "Tail of . . ." books in their cities.
To date, we have raised over $50,000 for charity!
MUM
Finally, I am proud mama to two scruffy dogs, Lyra and Maple, one rescued cat named William, Hufflepuff Lizardnardo the Bearded Dragon (Puff for short) AND my small humans, Oliver and Brody.
Lyra is my soul dog. Ragamuffin quite literally would not exist without her.
She taught me to slow down, showed me the beauty in the unconditional love & loyalty of dogs and convinced me to spend my life celebrating that for other pet lovers.
She is my first baby, my scruffy ragamuffin, my girl.
“My pets inspire myself and my work,
every single day.
They are scruffy and crazy. They bark at the postman and steal bread from the counter, but damn do they make me smile.”
LOCATION GUIDE
Years of photographing dogs all around Melbourne has allowed me to curate an all-star list of my top recommended locations. These tried and tested spots have been carefully picked because they guarantee lots of variety, colour, great lighting and most importantly - an awesome experience for you and your dog!
[please note: All dogs, regardless of training level, are photographed on-lead for city locations. If you’re not confident with their recall, they can also easily be photographed on-lead at the parks or beach. Digital "leash removal" is all part of the service, so being on lead won't impact your final photographs.]
WILLIAMSTOWN
Nestled by the sea, Williamstown Botanical Gardens includes a striking palm tree avenue, ornamental fountain and an intricate maze of pathways. It's usually quiet, peaceful and bursting with colour - a combination that makes it my very favourite photoshoot location!
Full of gorgeous trees, this park is rarely busy and has the added benefit of being a short walk away from the beach.
I also love to finish a Williamstown session at the Foreshore, where we get a fantastic view of the city from across the water, or by heading to the Altona Doggy beach for some fun-filled action shots.
Altona Doggy Beach is my favourite beach for photos. Melbourne's skyline stretches across the horizon in the background and at low-tide we'll be treated to a huge expanse of sand to run around.
ALBERT PARK
A hidden gem in the middle of urban Albert Park, Gasworks Arts Park features a large off-leash area perfect for playing and running with your dogs. Surrounding this area is secluded pockets of interesting brickwork, a graffiti-filled pathway and lots of gorgeous trees and bushes. It's great because we can capture a lot of variety within a short walking distance.
One of the best aspects of photographing at Gasworks is that the Port Melbourne off-leash dog beach is just a short walk down the road. There is a fabulous wooden pier that I love to use for photos, and it's an awesome way to finish a session.
MELBOURNE CITY
Linlithgow Lawn is the perfect location for an urban-focused photoshoot. We start in the park opposite the NGV, where we can take advantage of the awesome city views and colourful flowerbeds.
A short walk over Princes Bridge leads us to Flinders Street Station, Fed Square and graffiti-filled Hosier Lane. These four landmarks all look fantastic in photographs! If we schedule our session close to sunset, we can also take advantage of the city lights to create some unique night portraits.
The city crowds also give us the option of creating one of my signature Long-Exposure portraits (please let me know if you're interested in creating one of these, as I need to bring special equipment).
CARLTON GARDENS
Carlton Gardens is an on-leash, urban park filled with interesting architecture, trees and flowerbeds. Pathways throughout the park wind themselves around huge trees, ornamental lakes and elaborate fountains.
Both the Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building make for stunning backdrops during a session at Carlton Gardens. We also have the option of finishing up in nearby Fitzroy if you fancy some graffiti photos as well.
The gardens is another great location to capture a lot of variety within a short walk, so it's a particularly good option for older dogs who can't walk as far.
HAPPINESS GUARANTEED
If you don’t love your photographs,
I’ll reshoot or refund - no questions asked
happy clients (and happy pets) are my number one priority!
RECENT SESSIONS
In the heart of the Otways you'll find Countrywide Cottages - the perfect getaway for dog lovers. Turn off your phone and prepare to fully relax - with bushwalks at your doorstep, bonfires in the front yard, and yabbies in the dam. They are more than just “pet-friendly” here - the lovely team at Countrywide Cottages are true pet lovers. They have fully fenced yards, dog beds, blankets, bowls and even home-made dog treats in every cottage.