MY SHELTER PHOTOGRAPHY MISSION

There used to be a time when families would spend a couple of days visiting shelters and meeting all the animals in person when they wanted to adopt a new pet.  With all our lives now being so fast paced and full of activity, most people will visit websites first, and only venture out to the shelters if they find an animal they want to meet.  This would mean that the very first chance an animal has to make an impression is the photograph posted on the shelter website.  If this photograph is blurry, out of focus, over or under exposed, taken through cage bars, in cluttered or unattractive surroundings, or simply at an angle that doesn’t provide a clear visual of what the animal looks like, then that first impression will fail.  If a potential adopter is browsing a pet search engine, then the photo could potentially appear as a mere thumbnail on a page of dozens.  It is in the nature of the human mind that when scanning a collection of objects, those that do not stand out will be dismissed or passed over.  The animal may be a wonderful candidate for a new pet, but if the photograph does not provide a clear and easily identifiable image, then it will mostly likely be passed over.  The photo has to catch the attention first before a browser will stop and investigate further.  Only then will a potential adopter learn more about the wonderful personality.  This made me wonder how many perfectly suitable animals have been needlessly euthanized in the past decade in this country, not because they had behavioral or other issues, but simply because their online photo was inadequate for the task of catching the attention of a browsing eye.  This is not the animals fault…it is ours.

It is such a simple thing to remedy, and the very least any of us can do in the effort to find these animals good and loving homes.

During my time at Angels of Assisi, the adoption rates have increased almost 35%, and the website has many dedicated visitors who come back each week to see the new photos.  My success at Angels of Assisi, however, is no fluke.  Thankfully, I have had the opportunity to pass on the very simple methods I have developed to others.  Two women specifically – one in Merriam, Kansas and the other in Pulaski County, Virginia – have adopted my methods and have been able to produce images consistent with the kinds of images I produce at Angels of Assisi.  Both shelters have reported an increase in calls and an increase in adoptions. 

It is proven.  Better photographs on adoption websites DO increase adoptions, and in the case of shelters that practice euthanasia (which is most of them) better photographs save lives.

Also proven are the methods and procedures I have developed at Angels of Assisi.  Even in the hands of amateur photographers, these methods work.  When comparing photographs taken by myself and these two other women, there is remarkable consistency to be seen.  It’s very easy and inexpensive to accomplish, and it is my mission to spread this knowledge to all shelters across the nation so that they can also do this one very simple thing to save thousands of lives every year.  Until the entire nation adopts the No Kill philosophy embraced by shelters like Angels of Assisi, it is the duty of every human heart to do everything possible to find a home for every animal before its time is up.  An effective online photo is a great first step.

To this end, I am writing a book that will contain detailed explanations of the procedures I use, and how to get these great photographs easily, quickly and inexpensively.  I am also reaching out to fellow photographers and other shelters through online sites such as Facebook, BetterPhoto.com and Pawzitiveprints.com.  I have made connections with organizations such as The No Kill Revolution, who have the facilities to spread word of my mission to thousands of shelters and other people involved in animal adoption.  I also hope that individual citizens who hear about my mission will then contact their local shelters to let them know how better photography can help save their animals and increase their adoption rates.  I also make myself available to teach at other shelters, and I even encourage those who want to help to come learn from me at Angels of Assisi.

I am proud that my work at Angels of Assisi has been lauded and is appreciated as a unique effort, but it is my mission to become simply one amongst thousands doing the same.

  Going forward, a good photographer will need to be an essential part of any shelter or rescue effort that hopes to remain successful in getting their animals adopted. Society has moved forward and we have become a nation of online shoppers.  Most industries have realized this, which is why we are able to shop for everything from auto insurance to movie tickets from the comfort of our own homes.  Of all the animal shelters and rescue organizations in this country, however, it would not be out of the question to estimate that 90% have not kept up with these times.  They have websites, yes, but most have not recognized how good/clear images can make or break the “sale”.  Unfortunately, “break” in this case can mean the tragic loss of life.  There is a lot of work ahead.  First, they need to be convinced that better photographs do have an impact.  Once convinced, they need to be taught how to do it.  This is my mission.

For brief articles on how Vickie gets the pictures she does in a shelter setting, please visit : www.pawzitiveprints.com