About Happy Paws Photography
Happy Paws Photography Owner/Furtographer, James Ketola
I live with a small zoo of my own—seven cats, one dog, and a deep love for all things furry, feathered, and four-legged. My photography journey started at the Prince George’s County Animal Shelter, where I spent years volunteering my time to capture adoption portraits. I photographed over 2,000 shelter pets there, knowing that a great photo can dramatically improve their chances of finding a home.
What began as a passion project quickly grew into something bigger. I realized I couldn’t photograph every animal myself, so I started teaching staff and volunteers how to take impactful portraits, too. That experience reshaped how I view photography: not just as a service, but as a way to make a real difference.
Now, through Happy Paws Photography, I create meaningful artwork for pet parents while continuing to support local shelters and rescues behind the scenes. Ten percent of every sale goes directly to animal rescue efforts, and the rest fuels the complimentary services I provide to organizations doing lifesaving work.
My sessions are all about capturing the personality of your pet—usually outdoors, in golden light, on a trail or in a favorite park. Whether it’s a soulful gaze or a goofy grin, I’m here to make sure that moment lasts.
I also believe that community matters. That’s why I partner with small businesses that share my values of sustainability, equity, and inclusion. The connections I’ve built—especially with local rescues—are at the heart of everything I do.
Rescue & Shelter Partners
These organizations have inspired me and shaped my journey. It’s an honor to support their missions through photography, storytelling, and collaboration.
During my time volunteering at the Prince George’s County Animal Shelter, I photographed more than 2,000 adoptable pets to help them find loving homes. Studies show that a great photo can shorten a pet’s stay in the shelter by up to 66%. When the volume of animals became too overwhelming for one person, I shifted focus to training staff and volunteers in the art of shelter photography.
Their Mission:To provide for the health and welfare of the County's animal population through enforcement of the Animal Control Ordinance, resolution of animal-related disputes, and the promotion of adoptions, licensing, spay/neuter, and humane education.
I also partner with the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria to raise funds through themed photo sessions and to document their events through photography and visual storytelling. Together, we've captured the spirit of countless pets and the people who care for them.
Behind the scenes, we're also working on a special project that celebrates shelter pets in a whole new way. I’ll be sharing more on that soon!
Their Mission: To inspire compassion for all living beings, to provide shelter to animals in need, and to promote adoptions, animal welfare and responsible pet ownership in our community.
I believe every animal deserves a chance at a loving home—but some face a steeper climb. Pit bulls are one of the most misunderstood and unfairly judged breeds, often overrepresented in shelters and restricted by outdated policies.
Vindicated Pit Bull Rescue is working to change that. Their mission is to restore the reputation of a breed misunderstood through education, training, and community.
