Newcastle photographer Maree Bendeich says animals "don't carry the self doubt and insecurities that humans seem to".
"Each one has a different story and it's important for me to understand them in order to ensure I am documenting the version of them that the owner loves," Maree said.
"I love their expressions and their innocence."
Maree, who runs a business photographing pets for their owners, just received five bronze gongs in the Rise International Photography Awards.
We asked how she manages to get the dogs to stay still.
"First I give them plenty of time to explore the studio and create a positive and calming environment for them," she said.
She watches their body language to work out when she thinks they're ready to start a photo shoot.
She works with a cyclorama [a kind of stage] built to a height that "discourages them from jumping off".
"Then I use toys, treats and interesting noises to hold their attention long enough to capture the shots we need," she said.
"I never force them to do anything they don't want to. I always ensure they leave on a high, so if they visit again they've had a positive experience here."
Maree works as a volunteer with Dog Rescue Newcastle.
She has lived with more than 20 dogs waiting for a new home.
"I volunteer as a photographer for a variety of local organisations. The chances of being adopted increase dramatically when animals have engaging photos," she said.
As for her business, most of the animals she photographs are dogs. She sometimes gets asked to photograph cats and "the occasional rabbit".
"Interestingly, about 60 per cent of the dogs I photograph are dachshunds. They've become such a popular breed," she said.
"My most interesting shoot this year has been two chooks that were rescued into a wonderful home, one where they cherished them enough to bring them in for professional photos.
"The owner crafted beautiful handmade hats for them."
Some animals she's not so keen on.
"It's certainly a snake-free zone here and I'm thankful no one has asked as yet."
Some people go all out.
She has clients who have had couture dresses made for their photo shoot or arranged a "delivery of fresh flower crowns or collars to the studio".
"After so many years in rescue and seeing animals at their lowest point, it really is heartwarming to see the love people share for their pets. You just can't help but smile."
Keith's Kitchen
Wickham's Gavin Sharpe said he and his mates often went to Keith's Kitchen in Pacific Street.
They'd catch the train from Toronto to go surfing in Newcastle.
"We'd finish a surf and before we caught the train home we'd go in for a hamburger," he said.
"You'd walk in the door and there was Joe at the hot plate. We'd sit in the booths on the left-hand side."
Gavin's group would walk in and sing out something like: "Three plain hamburgers, two with the works, no onion on one, no lettuce on another, extra cheese on another".
Gavin said Joe "knew the orders off by heart".
"He never wrote a thing down. He was amazing."
- topics@newcastleherald.com.au
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