Meet Terri Jankelow, she’s the artist behind these purrfect pet photos that effortlessly capture our furry companions in their natural element. Having loved, owned and trained dogs most of her life; Terri finds joy in bringing to life our pets and showcasing the love these animals bring into our lives. You can check out her stunning portfolio at www.terrijphotography.com but for now, we caught up with her and asked her a few questions about her work and passion for photography.
When & how did you fall in love with photography?
I have loved photography for as long as I can remember, certainly as far back as my teen years. As a newlywed, in the days of film photography, my husband and I had a darkroom and we used to spend many hours developing images.
How did you get into Pet Photography?
I’ve been a dog lover all my life and have had dogs from the time I was a baby. My parents always had a dog. I was also involved in dog training and have trained my own dogs for obedience trials as well as agility. When my last dog died, it was not a good time for me to get a new dog because I was very busy helping with my grandchildren. At the same time I retired and decided to learn more about photography and improve my skills. After that it was a natural step for me to combine my love of dogs with my love of photography and get into pet photography.
How would you define your photography style?
I’d say it is crisp, clean and vibrant. It’s very natural and true to life since I prefer to use natural light.
What was your most memorable photoshoot?
I had a great time with a little Daschund called Daisy. She was so cooperative and fun to work with. She doesn’t get out much as her owners are a little elderly so this was a treat for her! We got many shots in different locations to provide a varied collection for her Mom and Dad.
Which piece of gear (lens, tripod etc.) is your favourite?
I love my Canon 70-200 f2.8 lens. It allows me to stay a fair distance from the dogs if need be and it gives wonderful soft backgrounds.
What’s your next photography purchase?
I’m seriously considering a mirrorless camera. My Canon’s are very heavy to lug around! A mirrorless would be so much easier to travel with and also carry with me daily. I’m considering a Sony because with an adaptor I can till use my Canon lenses, but have heard amazing things about the Fuji XT-2
What advice would you give to amateur photographers?
Take classes and keep trying new techniques to improve your knowledge and skills. Take on a 365 or 52-week project as it forces you to shoot every day or at least every week and that’s how you improve
What workshops/courses have been your favourites and why?
My favourite was Photography 101 through GTA Photography. That’s where I learned how to use manual and understand the exposure triangle. Before that I shot only in automatic. I also found the Lightroom course to be extremely valuable!
Just so we can find out a bit more about the person behind the lens, could you tell us…
What is your favourite dog breed?
I love Tibetan Terriers. My last 3 dogs were Tibetan Terriers. It’s a very unusual breed and most people have probably never heard of them.What is your favourite dog breed?
What do you like to do on a rainy day?
Edit photographs, read or watch TV.
What’s your favourite holiday?
It is not really a holiday but I look forward to the long weekend in May (the May 24 weekend) because I get my gardening done for the summer season. I love nature and being in the garden is a source of pleasure and peace for me.
What you would do if you won the lottery?
I’d give money to my kids and family, followed by some for charity. Then I’d buy a wonderful condo in Florida
What was the last movie you saw in a theatre?
La La Land. I loved the music, dancing and nostalgic style of it.