Model Application: Pet Stars Needed for a Commercial Shoot!
Happy Paws Photography has casted for commercial pet shoots for Paws and Joy, Chippin, and other DC, Maryland, and Virginia-based companies.
📅 Date & Time:
TBD
(Alexandria, VA – exact location shared upon selection)
Pet modeling opportunities don’t happen every day, but when commercial brands need dogs or cats for a campaign, Happy Paws Photography helps cast local pets throughout Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland.
While most of James’s work focuses on custom portrait sessions for pet parents, commercial projects occasionally require real pets with great personalities to step in front of the camera.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes for your pet to become a model, this page explains how the process works.
What You’ll Get:
Commercial contracts dictate compensation. Previous selected models have received:
A chance to shine in a luxury studio setting
Professionally styled backdrops and props
A complimentary digital photo of your pet from the shoot for personal use
The chance to support a small business and grow your pet’s modeling portfolio!
How Pet Model Calls Work
Commercial pet modeling is different from traditional pet portrait sessions.
Brands hire Happy Paws Photography to photograph pets for advertising campaigns, product launches, or marketing materials. When this happens, we open model applications to find pets who match the needs of the project.
Each shoot has specific requirements depending on the campaign, such as:
• Size or breed type
• Coat color or look
• Ability to remain calm on set
• Comfort around people, lights, and other animals
Because these projects are designed around a specific brand concept, only a small number of applicants are selected for each shoot.
Want Photos of Your Pet Without Waiting for a Model Call?
Model opportunities are limited and depend on brand campaigns. If you'd love professional portraits of your dog or cat, the best way to guarantee a session is by booking a custom pet portrait experience.
Unlike commercial shoots, portrait sessions are designed entirely around your pet’s personality and your home or favorite location.
Many of the pets selected for commercial projects are actually clients of Happy Paws Photography, because they’re already comfortable in front of the camera.
What Makes a Great Pet Model?
The best pet models aren’t necessarily perfectly trained; they’re simply comfortable, curious, and responsive to their owners.
Helpful traits include:
• Being treat-motivated
• Comfort around lights and new environments
• Ability to stay relaxed around people and animals
• A personality that shines on camera
Want to hear about model calls before they fill up?
Join the VIP Pack email list and we’ll notify you when casting opportunities open
Ready to Apply?
Please complete the form below. Selected pet parents will be contacted first when a commercial shoot calls for pet models.