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| Coyote |
There is a community cleverly hidden in this world, one that most don’t even consider possible. This surreptitious group is one of the most fascinating doors you can have access to as a photographer- and believe me, the photographs will be mind-blowing. After I found myself pulled into this world, there was no turning back. I’m talking about exotic animal owners, those who prefer to share their home with a fox rather than a cocker spaniel! Imagine being able to pose a model with a tiger rather than a housecat! But, like most congregations of people, there are the good apples and the bad apples- when you’re dealing with unconventional animals, this distinction is of the utmost importance. Alongside this, you need to cover your legal bases to protect both you, and the animal you are using.
Before we get in any further, let’s get one very important misconception straight: Exotic pets are not animals plucked from the wild. They come from breeders, and are many generations removed from their wild counterparts. Yes, that lion at your local zoo- he comes from a breeder. Of course you will receive a slew of messages from uneducated people screaming that you’re an animal abuser for using a “wild animal” in your photo shoot, but that simply comes with the turf. These animals are not wild. If anything, an exotic pet released into the wild will, more likely than not, die. That being said, they are not your average house cat. Be sure to listen to the rules and directions expressed by the animal’s handler.
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| Cael the wolfdog with model Kota Wade for Freque Magazine. |
Is it dangerous to use these creatures for photo shoots? Well, this depends on where you find your animal. Like anything we do in this world (such as breathing and drinking water), there are risks involved. We lessen, if not completely eradicate, these risks by educating ourselves and making smart, informed decisions. Research the handler and their animals, and be sure to ask a lot of questions. Make sure that the owner has all of the proper licenses, permits, and knowledge. It is preferred that you use animals that have a resume of film, photography, or ambassador work. Most importantly, meet with the animals- how do they react to your camera equipment? How do they react to strangers?
I work consistently with two high-content wolfdogs (animals that are as close to pure wolves as most will ever get), and I can genuinely say that neither I, nor any of my models or team members, have ever felt our lives were being endangered. Their owner and handler, a wildlife biologist with an immense passion for these beautiful animals, has spent every waking moment training and socializing her canines. As well as this, she has all of the applicable permissions and licenses to keep her creatures. The animals have a consistent track record in film and photography, as well as in educational outreach and ambassador work. Damu and Cael, the wolfdogs, hold a dear place in my heart after all of the weeks I have spent working with their little wolf family.
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| White Bengal Tiger |
Do I work with other wolves? Yes, occasionally, but often times I decline when I do not believe that the animal is trained or socialized well enough to take part in photo shoots. Last year, when I had a one-on-one photo shoot with someone’s high-content wolfdog, the handler had absolutely zero idea of what she was doing. Her animal was nervous and anxious, began displaying fearful aggression, and it was an absolute catastrophe. This is why it is extremely important to meet with the owner and interact with the animal before finding yourself on set with a creature that may unintentionally cause a problem. Double-checking that the exotic animal handler has all of the proper licenses is equally as important. You don’t want to be stuck in a legal hell because someone decided to sue the whillot of you. Liability waivers are a godsend, and you absolutely must use them. Not because the cheetah you have picked to use is a significant hazard, but simply because humans enjoy throwing around the legal card when they get frustrated. If the animal huffs at them due to the model disregarding the handler’s directions- you will probably receive a letter from a lawyer.
Where do you find exotic animals? Unfortunately, I cannot properly answer this for you. I found my animals through social networking. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter- all of these outlets can connect you with the opportunities you seek. There are various agencies that represent exotic animals for artistic use. All of this simply requires you to use the power of Google!
Posing models with these beautiful, unique, and incredible animals is one of the most unbelievable experiences you can ever have as a photographer. When you take the proper measures to find an animal and handler combination that works for you- the results are magnificent.
When you're finished with one of these amazing photo sessions, be sure to upload your images to an online photo gallery such as Instaproofs. The pictures will be amazing, and in addition to providing you with a great way to sell photos online, your photography storefront will provide your clients with a simple way to share the images you took with other members of the exotic animals community, which in turn will result in more work and additional referrals for you.
When you're finished with one of these amazing photo sessions, be sure to upload your images to an online photo gallery such as Instaproofs. The pictures will be amazing, and in addition to providing you with a great way to sell photos online, your photography storefront will provide your clients with a simple way to share the images you took with other members of the exotic animals community, which in turn will result in more work and additional referrals for you.
Damu the wolfdog with model Alexandra Fische.
"There is a common misconception which perpetuates the idea that exotic animals are directly taken from the wild. Whether the animal has been captive born and selectively bred for generations or was ailed and unable to be reintroduced back into their natural environment because of physical issues or being void of any survival instincts, these animals play an imperative role as educators and ambassadors to bring awareness to the plight of their species. When working with these animals, it is a true honor. The collaboration entwined in the process brings about an opportunity to dispel myths and misconceptions while using art to engage and inspire an audience."
- Kimmi Kraus, Wolf Totem Ambassadors
Anabel DFlux is a California native who prefers to spend every waking moment with her trusty camera in hand. In 2009 she started her own photography business on a whim and a wish, and has since gone on to work for a variety of publications, companies, and unique clients throughout the country. With her foot in a variety of photographic doors, Anabel is recognized as a zealous individual with a passion for art that knows no bounds.
