North Carolina Pet Photographer

Because pets are family too

Whether they greet you with a wagging tail or a quiet purr, pets are part of our hearts and homes. They bring joy, comfort, and unconditional love. Why not celebrate them with portraits that capture everything you adore?

At Katie Smith Photography, I treat pet sessions with the same care and attention I give to family portraits. I want to capture not just how your pet looks, but who they are—their quirks, their energy, and the bond you share.

Let’s turn your pet’s personality into artwork you’ll treasure for years.

The Pet Portrait Experience

Easy, personalized booking. We’ll chat about your pet, your vision, and the best location to tell their story.

A relaxed, fun session. I’ll guide you through simple prompts to bring out your pet’s personality (and yes, I’m prepared for treats and squeaky toys).

Viewing and ordering. Come to the studio to see your portraits and choose how you want to enjoy them, whether as wall art, albums, or digital keepsakes.

Quick turnaround. Digital copies arrive within one week. Printed products are delivered right to your door within three.

Investment & Products

Every pet and every story are different, so I offer a variety of options to fit your needs and your vision for how you want to remember this season of life.

Example of a framed small print of dog portraits on shelf

Starting at $300. Perfect for families who want to highlight just a few cherished moments through smaller prints for shelves and desks.

$900 to $1200. Ideal for those who want to tell their pet’s story through a thoughtfully curated set of images in an album or as wall art.

$2000 and up. For those who want to document every moment with heirloom albums and custom-designed wall galleries that make a statement in your home.

No matter your vision, I’ll guide you through the process and help you choose the best way to preserve your memories.

I Love Working with Rescues

Animal rescue is close to my heart. I happily support local shelters and foster families. Whether it’s photographing adoptable pets, donating to silent auctions, or offering fundraiser sessions that give back. If you’re a rescue or foster looking for photography support, I’d love to hear from you.

Photo of owner holding dogs paw

Saying Goodbye: Your Pet’s Last Photo Session

If you’ve received bad news from the vet, I offer end-of-life pet photography with all proofs gifted as a keepsake. To ensure you don’t miss the chance to capture these memories, sessions must be booked within two weeks of reaching out, and while your family will be included, the session will focus on your pet.

The Adventurous Pet

These sessions are perfect for pet owners wanting portraits that capture real, natural moments of their pet exploring the outdoors. Whether they’re frolicking in a field or hiking by the creek, these sessions focus on authentic, everyday experiences that showcase your dog’s personality in a peaceful, natural setting.

black cat photographed by NC pet photographe katie smith photography

The Elegant Pet

For a truly elegant portrayal, these sessions capture your pet’s essence with stunning lighting and classic studio background. These portraits are designed to be timeless and refined, showcasing the dignity of your pet through a work of art.

The Playful Pet

Let your pet’s personality shine with our playful mini sessions! Whether it’s a seasonal theme or something just for fun, these sessions are perfect for capturing your pet’s quirkiest moments. From superhero pups to festive winter looks, we create lighthearted portraits that are sure to make you smile.

Check out our upcoming events and book a spot for your pet to get in on the action! See what’s booking now.

A Note on Pet Sessions:


I love capturing the personalities of pets and the special bond they share with their people. My sessions are designed to create lasting portraits of beloved pets, whether they’re family companions, show dogs, or working dogs. I do not offer sessions for breeders looking to photograph litters for sale, as my focus is on celebrating pets as cherished members of the family.

Frequently Asked Questions

While our clients are usually dog owners, I love all animals. So far I’ve photographed dogs, cats, chickens, ducks, horses, and pigs!

  • Neutral-colored leash– I’ll be able remove it in Photoshop.
  • Training Treats– Small treats that gulped down in one bite. Large and/or crumbly treats tend to make a mess on your dog’s face and on the set.
  • Favorite toys– Balls, tug ropes, and squeakers are great. Unless it has sentimental value, I suggest it being new or at least clean and in good condition as it may appear in photos.
  • Pet waste bags– It happens. Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, we clean it up and move on.

Totally normal. Most pets don’t pose on command, and that’s okay. I use natural prompts, play, and plenty of patience to capture their personality without pressure. Some of the best moments happen in motion.

Ready for your pet’s close up? Fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch!

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