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Ellen Zangla: On-Location Pet Photography

In this hands-on workshop, Northern Virginia pet photographer Ellen Zangla will share her process for creating beautiful pet images on location.

Ellen has been photographing pets outside since 2009, and the experience has taught her what works — and what doesn't. She'll share both, so you can walk into any location with a clear plan and walk away with images you're proud of.

This workshop covers:

  • How to scout and evaluate a location before you ever pick up your camera
  • Natural light and off-camera flash — reading the light you have, knowing when and how to add to it, and making the two work together
  • Preparing your clients before their session
  • Managing the unpredictability of outdoor environments and helping clients understand what to expect
  • Working with dogs in busy environments
  • Reading dog body language and stress signals, and knowing when and how to adjust your approach
  • Capturing the bond people share with their pets, in both posed and more natural moments
  • Leash management
  • The importance of a dog handler
  • What to pack — camera gear and everything else you didn't know you needed

Whether you're new to shooting outside or want to get more consistent results on location, you'll walk away with a clear process and the confidence to use it. Accessibility: This workshop begins in the classroom and then moves outdoors. All locations are within close proximity, with roughly ¼ to ½ mile of walking total, with extended breaks between stops. Surfaces are paved and flat grass — no stairs or difficult terrain. Participants are welcome to bring their own cameras and shoot alongside the demonstration.

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About Ellen

Ellen Zangla has been a pet photographer in Loudoun County, VA, since 2009. Almost all of her work is done outside, except for fundraisers and indoor pets like cats or lizards. Her dogs love being outside, and so does she, so it's a natural fit.

Ellen loves photographing dogs, and she also loves capturing the relationship her clients have with their pets. She always tells her clients that photos with their pets matter more than they expect, and she highly encourages them to be in those photos. She tells her clients that if they don't love them, they don't have to buy them — but if she doesn't take them, they won't have the chance. And her clients are always glad she did.

Ellen has earned her Master of Photography, Photographic Craftsman, and Certified Professional Photographer designations through the Professional Photographers of America. She is a Master of Animal Imagery through AIM and has been on Team USA for the World Photographic Cup the last two years.

When she's not photographing pets, she often can be found photographing wildlife. She lives in Northern Virginia with her husband, son, two dogs, and four cats.

Ellen's Website
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