Over the years of photographing the Novak family, I have come to appreciate the individual members, and learn how to photograph them in different ways that bring out their unique personalities. This goes for the animals too!

Their Welsh Cardigan Corgi enjoys popping in for a photo or two, then skipping off on his own adventure, snuffling for mice and squirrels, or ensuring the cows keep a respectful distance from us. When he does venture back for a photo with the family, he’s easy enough to have sit on their laps, give kisses, or allow them to pick him up for a standing photo. As long as I balance the posing, with allowing him to go snuffled around, he’s a champ for photoshoots!

Their Australian Cattle dog does things differently. He is happy to stay close for photos, but is too claustrophobic to be held in one spot, and will shut down completely if you push him past his comfort zones. He is however, happy to interact with his family on his own terms, and come beg for treats out of my pocket. This situation is a bit more tricky to photograph, as I constantly have to be watching him. The way he stops to look lovingly at his owners, when he’s brave and willing to come close for a treat reward, or when he’s posed perfectly by himself, are all opportunities for photos!

Ensuring the animals are comfortable and respecting their boundaries, brings out the best of them, and simultaneously helps the (human) family members relax into trusting me as their photographer as well. I am not here to change a behavior or alter a personality, but rather capture the beauty that makes those individuals valued and love.

From there, it’s keeping an engaging conversation that includes and makes everyone feel valued, while keeping the session fun and entertaining!

Here are a handful of photos from the most recent photoshoot with the Novaks!

“We have had the opportunity to work with Jesse on numerous different photo shoots, from horses and cows to dogs and family. I’m always amazed by the shots she gets, knowing what it’s like during the shoot and having experienced “behind the scenes””

— Jessica