Awesome Pet Photography by Richie Schwartz

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The Making of a Pet Photography Business

The Making of a Pet Photography Business
Pets Photography Studio was founded by Richie Schwartz, often referred to as "America's Most Experienced Pet Photographer."

After a successful 25 year career in photography in New York doing photojournalism, weddings/events, families/ kids, pets, schools, models and commercial work, Richie decided to specialize. As a former Veterinary Technician, Dog Groomer and Trainer, working with animals exclusively seemed to be a natural progression. In 2002 he joined forces with another photo studio based in Canada. Their plan was to partner with other pet businesses in the US and Canada, that already had a customer base which matched a common target market, namely pet owners who shopped in brick and mortar stores. The business model would create partnerships with other pet businesses to form mutually beneficial relationships.

Through persistent and skillful negotiating efforts, their team was able to enter into contracts and collaborate  with the two largest pet supply stores in the US. That milestone was a game changer. They grew Great Beginnings Photo and it's subsidiary Pet One Photo into the world’s largest pet photography company. As Operations Manager, Richie was in charge of day to day operations, overseeing a staff of 40 photographers taking pet portraits at 600 Petsmart and Petco stores across 30 states. These two companies alone accounted for over 50,000 photo sessions each year.

In 2006, Richie left that company to open his own Pet Photography business in New York using a similar business model but on a smaller, more localized scale.  Richie, pitched his idea to PETCO and got a contract that put his studio in over 80 locations in NY, NJ, and CT.

In 2010, he had taken on the same role for national chain Pet Supplies “Plus,” servicing stores in NY, NJ, CT and PA. In 2013 Schwartz's studio partnered with Petland Discounts, a local pet supply store chain with over 100 stores in the NY area. His studio has worked with other major pet supply chains such as Pet Valu, as well as dozens of independent pet businesses such as grooming salons, doggie daycares, dog boarding kennels, pet stores, and animal hospitals.

On a personal level, Richie has been recognized both for his photography and his contributions to the community. He provides free photography for several Pet Rescue organizations.  Richie was named to NBC Universal's Petside.com’s list of Top 25 Pet People of 2010 along with Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres, for his charity work with animals and his impact on the welfare of pets.

• 2018 - Named Pet Photographer of the Year (NY Pet Fashion Show)
• 2017 - Society Paws Award for Professional Pet Photographer (NYC)
• 2022 - SEVEN time winner: Best Pet Photographer on Long Island competition (LI Press) 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2022

He has been featured on TV and radio and in magazines and newspapers such as Modern Dog Magazine, American Dog Magazine, Pet Home Magazine, Pets in the City Magazine, Metropolitan Magazine, Newsday, Wall Street Journal, and the Cats In Sweaters Calendars and book.

Richie is not only an acclaimed pet photographer, but he is an admired educator as well. He offers classes, mentoring, and coaching in Photography,  Sales, Starting and/or growing a  Photography business, Marketing for Photographers, Partnering for Pet Photographers and more. He is available for general business coaching and/or mentoring as well. He provides workshops and seminars both online and at various venues.  Richie runs several Facebook groups for Professional Photographers with topics ranging from technical skills to sales to customer service. He is also available as a public speaker on a variety of related topics. As of early 2022 he has a social media following of over 50,000 followers.

His Social Media includes:

Twitter / YouTube / Facebook / LinkedIn / Instagram

Is Professional Photography Really "Worth It"?

Being in the photography business for years has been an amazing journey and a great accomplishment for me. I believe that the people I meet are the best clients anyone could wish for. For the most part, my clients book an appointment, look at the images and then make a purchase according to the price list I provide and they go home a happy camper! Once in a while, though, a new client will express concerns about what they perceive to be the high cost of professional photography in general, and they wonder aloud if it is really worth it. And that is when I say to them, maybe I can help you to better understand why professional photography really is “worth it”.

Now, I don’t launch into a list of expenses that pro photographers have to cover just to stay in business. I don’t mention things like rent, insurance, licensing fees, business taxes, equipment cost, software upgrades, photo lab costs, assistants, shipping fees, travel costs, equipment upgrades, editing and retouching fees, ongoing education, and advertising costs . NO, I don’t mention any of these things; I wouldn’t resort to that! ;) But I do tell them about Sunday, October 28, 2012.

Yes, October 28, 2012, the day that President Obama issued a declaration of emergency for New York State. Schools, bridges, and airports were closed. Here in my home town on Long Island, the orders were given to evacuate immediately! A "super" storm named Sandy was headed directly at our island as if guided by some hi technological laser gun.

Hurricane Sandy came to New York the next day and for those of us that survived, our lives were changed forever. A lot was going on in the hours of that Sunday afternoon before the storm was due to land. The neighborhood was alive with commotion, yet there was a sort of calm panic. As if by coincidence (or something else) as I packed my vehicle, I looked around and noticed all my neighbors were doing the same thing at the same time. It was eerie, almost as if we had rehearsed this like the synchronized swimmers in the Olympics, or the newest young and bold dance team on America's Got Talent, but we hadn’t.

As my neighbors brought their valuables out of their homes and into their vehicles, not knowing if there would still be a house when we were allowed back, I saw something I will never forget; we all brought the same thing out of our homes!

I didn't see any Xbox console, or stereo system, I did not see any plasma screen 90 inch Super Hi Def TV, I didn't see any air conditioners nor did I see any comfy sectional sofas or fancy bathroom sinks, I didn't see any kid's bunk beds. No desktop computers or pretty Tiffany lamps.

What I DID see was that EVERYONE was loading their cars and mini vans with the family photos that they took off the walls, frame and all. They had their wedding albums and wall portraits. They had their kid’s photo albums filled with years of school pictures and Halloween costumes, taking their first steps and posing proudly on their first bicycle. And there were shoe boxes full of photos from years of assorted family occasions, even that last picture of Grandma before she passed ,and I understood. I understood. I really understood.

We know that at the end of the day, of all our “possessions”, it is our memories that we treasure most and place the highest value on. Pictures represent our memories. Our memories cannot be replaced with any amount of money or any material goods - it really is the most valuable thing we have!

I tell these “wondering” clients to keep in mind that when a photographer hands over custom prints with the images of your loved ones, these are now your “priceless” treasures forevermore. These are now the most valuable thing you own! And as they get misty eyed and give a quick sniffle thinking about what they would have done, they get it. They get it.
They really get it.

©2015 Richie Schwartz

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Doggie Stars and Stripes 2014

Happy Independence Day America!

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Pet Photography Tips - Get a Dog's Attention - With Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz

New York Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz explains a few of his techniques for getting the look he wants from his dog "models".

 

 

This clip is a 30 second excerpt from 

A Documentary Profile of Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz

Click here to watch the whole video

 

Richie Schwartz voted "Best Pet Photographer" 2014

 Richie Schwartz voted "Best Pet Photographer" 2014 

Voted Best for the Second Consecutive Year

Long Island, NY, February 3, 2014 – Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz was voted "Best Pet Photographer" on Long Island, NY,  in the annual “BEST OF LONG ISLAND 2014” competition, by readers of the Long Island Press, Long Island's largest weekly newspaper. The annual contest is sponsored by Bethpage Federal Credit Union.

The Bethpage “Best of Long Island” competition is the largest business awards program on Long Island and had more than 1 million votes counted this year.

Starting with thousands of nominees in hundreds of categories, the top 15-20 vote getters in each category were entered into the final round, where the final voting took place. Through it all, Schwartz prevailed as the FIRST PLACE WINNER in the category of "Best Pet Photographer".  He also won first place last year as well, the first year the category appeared.

Schwartz founded Pets Photography Studio based in West Hempstead, NY, and through partnerships with other pet businesses, his studio provides Pet Photography services at over 50 locations throughout Long Island and the tri state region of NY, NJ, and CT.

Over the last 33 years as a professional photographer, it is estimated that Schwartz, a former Veterinary technician, groomer and dog trainer, has photographed over 75,000 pets. He is often referred to as “America’s Most Experienced Pet Photographer”. He is internationally recognized as an expert and leader in the specialized field of Pet Photography. Schwartz has been featured in books, magazines, blogs, podcasts, videos, newspapers, radio, and television.

 He is a speaker and educator at photography clubs, schools, pet expos and other events, where he offers pet photography classes, seminars and workshops. He frequently volunteers his services to help raise funds and awareness for animal rescue organizations.

Schwartz was named on the list of "TOP 25 PET PEOPLE OF 2010" by NBC Universal’s Petside.com, along with Oprah Winfrey, Betty White, Elayne Boosler, and Ellen DeGeneres for their volunteer work with animal rescue groups.

In 2010 he was the subject of a documentary  by Videographer Brian Potts.
                                                                                              

Social Media: Twitter / Facebook / LinkedIn / YouTube / Pets Photography Studio

If you would like more information, please contact

Contact	RICHIE SCHWARTZ
Telephone	516-263-4821
Fax	240-331-1367
Email	info@PetsPhotography.com
Website	www.PetsPhotography.com

  





  

Top 10 Tips for Great Holiday Pet Photos By Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz

Top 10 Tips for Great Holiday Pet Photos

 By Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz 

1 – If your pup is going to wear an outfit or even just a Santa hat, put it on a couple days before to make sure it fits, but more importantly, to see how your pup likes it and to let him/her get used to it.

2 – Try to bring your pup to the store/location where the pictures will be taken in advance to let him/her get used to the smells, noise, and hustle and bustle of the store.

3 - Buy a holiday toy that would look nice in the holiday picture and give it to the dog to play with a day or two before picture day. Bring it with you when you go for the pictures, it may help your dog feel more comfortable.

4 – Bring some of Fido’s favorite treats in case “bribery” is required.

5 – The photographers will most likely be using a camera with a flash, so I suggest that you practice taking pictures with a flash at home. Take a picture and quickly give the dog a treat. Let him make the connection that a flash will lead to a treat. This technique may help your dog sit calmly through a few shots if needed.

6 – Holiday picture days are typically very popular and there can be long lines to wait on. To avoid standing in long lines, arrive early in the day. You might even call the photographer at the store and ask what time would be least crowded.

7 – If you are using a professional photographer in a private photo studio, most likely you will be making an appointment. Make the appointment for a time when your dog has already eaten and has taken care of “business”.

8 – Try not to make any changes to the dog’s regular routine. Feed, use the bathroom, and exercise as usual if possible.

9 - It usually helps to take your dog for a long walk or run before the photo session, especially if you have one of the more active breeds or mixed breeds.

10 – Even after taking some or all of these steps, some dogs may not sit for a photo for one reason or another. Don’t get frustrated, give your pup an extra hug and remember it is all about having fun.

Richie Schwartz - America's Most Experienced Pet Photographer

Pets Photography Studio - Over 75,000 Pets Photographed

Named to Top 25 Pet People of 2010 (NBC Universal)

On the web: Twitter / YouTube / Facebook / Website

 

TV Crew Visits Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz

A TV crew recently stopped by the photo studio of Richie Schwartz, America's Most Experienced Pet Photographer, to film him working. Watch as Richie photographs "Bear" and "Charlie" and then talks about his decision to specialize in pet photography full time. 

Photographer Named Among Top 25 Pet People

NBC UNIVERSAL’S PETSIDE.COM NAMES “TOP 25 PET PEOPLE OF 2010”
Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz included On List of Extraordinary Newsmakers, With Emmy-Award Winners, Ellen DeGeneres, Oprah Winfrey, and Betty White Rounding Out The List.

PRESS RELEASE
New York, NY (December 21, 2010) – As 2010 comes to an end, Petside.com the preeminent site for pet owners and pet enthusiasts, has released its first-ever list of the “Top 25 Pet People of 2010”. The list, which includes both unsung heroes and celebrity activists such as Ellen DeGeneres, Elayne Boosler, Oprah Winfrey and Betty White, is led by one extraordinarily generous dermatologist from Denver, Colorado, Dr. Leslie Capin, who donated $1 million in contest winnings to several local animal shelters.

“Whether it was organizing efforts to help animals in Haiti, rescuing 100 beagles from a bankrupt testing lab in New Jersey, or photographing homeless animals for adoption, so many pet-lovers raised awareness and donated resources for the benefit of pets everywhere,” said Wendy Toth, Editor of Petside.com. “Petside’s list recognizes these extraordinary people and their effect on the pet community.”

Petside based the rankings on the individual’s impact on the welfare of pets, the public profile of pets in need and on their ability to inspire others to action. Ranging from public figures to everyday citizens, animal-loving tweens and reformed bad-boys, Petside.com’s “Top 25 Pet People of 2010” runs the gamut of headline-making newsmakers.

Included on the list are:
 Leslie Capin – Won $1 million in cute dog contest and gave it to shelters.
 Ellen DeGeneres – Donated 5,000 meals from her pet food company to a pet food bank.
 Cathy King, DVM – Founder of World Vets; deployed a team to help pets in Haiti.
 Elayne Boosler - Despite the down economy, her nonprofit provided dozens of grants to rescue groups.
 Matt DeAngelis – Helped organize rescue of over 100 beagles from bankrupt testing lab.
 Oprah Winfrey– Publicized her adoption of two dogs from a Chicago no-kill shelter.
 Richie Schwartz -Celebrity Pet Photographer offers free services to animal shelters and rescue groups.
 Mike Arms – Creator of Iams® Home 4 The Holidays which set its highest goal ever this year.
 Betty White – Posed with hunks for a 2011 wall calendar and donated royalties to a shelter.
 Paula Abdul – Spokeswoman for the American Humane Association’s Pets and Women’s Shelters Program.


About Petside.com
Petside.com  was created by Digital Works@NBCU, a division of iVillage, in partnership with Procter & Gamble Productions, Inc., as a comprehensive source of information and services that helps pets and their owners get the most out of life. Offering customized content and a highly personalized experience, Petside.com is ranked among the top 5 pet Web sites and offers unique editorial features, expert Q&A’s, tools and how-to videos.
UPDATE: PETSIDE.COM CLOSED ON AUGUST 2, 2013

Capture Every Cute Puppy Moment

Pet Photographer Richie Schwartz, a former veterinary technician who turned his love of pet photography into a career, shares some tips on how to take perfect pics of your pup.

Capture Every Cute Puppy Moment

K9 Camera Award for Best DOGumentary goes to Videographer Brian Potts

Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Long Island, New York

K9 Camera Award 
Goes to Videographer Brian Potts 

Nationally acclaimed Videographer and Dog Trainer Brian Potts, was recently awarded the K9 Camera Award 2011 for Best DOGumentary for his behind the scenes look at America’s most experienced Pet Photographer, Richie Schwartz.

Simply, but aptly named “ Profile of America's Pet Photographer” the production stars Schwartz and several dogs. Often called the Dog Whisperer of Pet Photographers because of his uncanny ability to calm even the most energetic of dogs, Schwartz has photographed more than 70,000 pets over the last 30 years, giving rise to his reputation as "America’s Most Experienced Pet Photographer".

                           

Filmed and edited entirely by Potts, this seven minute DOGumentary takes a look at how Schwartz actually gets the animals to pose, why he chose to specialize in Pet Photography and other fascinating and fun scenes. Interviews and scenes were filmed in Schwartz's New York Pets Phototography Studio and on location at a national pet supply store.

Schwartz himself was recently named among the "Top 25 Pet People of 2010," a list compiled by NBC Universal's PetSide.com that includes Oprah Winfrey, Ellen Degenres, Betty White and Elayne Boosler. The rankings are based on the individual's impact on the welfare of pets, the capacity to raise the public profile of pets in need and the ability to inspire others into action. Schwartz is listed at #23.

This is a Hi-Def video, we suggest full  screen mode

Alternate link:
Watch the video on YouTube here: DOGumentary 

You Can Be

This is an awesome video. It is not what you expect. A powerful message. Don't miss it.

It's only 60 seconds but  it leaves an impression

Pets Photography Studio - Pets and Animals TV Channel

Pets Photography Studio is proud to present our own TV Channel. We feature all kinds of pets and animals that appear on television across the country. Catch up on pet and animal news 24/7. This is the sister channel to our Dog Channel which can be seen here Pets Photography Studio TV Dog Channel.

Warning To All Photographers

Hazardous conditions are something that photographers sometimes have to deal with. Photographers who photograph wars, rock climbing, civil disobedience, and wildlife are some of the situations that come to mind when we think of hazardous conditions, but the reality is, danger lurks just around the corner for any photographer not paying attention to the shooting conditions they are in. No matter what kind of job you are shooting, I suggest arriving early and do a walk around of the area you will be shooting in. This video explains it all very well.

Be Careful Out There!!