Earlier this month, I won a portrait package with Fluffy Feet Photography, a Richmond girlboss company that specializes in animal portraiture. I’d seen their stellar work online and was ecstatic about having my fur babies photographed. I’d spoken with and become fast friends with Ann, who schedules and assists Maura, the company’s owner. They’d already asked what background I’d like and my pets’ complementary colors. But, it wasn’t until I arrived at the studio, nestled in the back of a beautiful plant-lined space bedecked with flowers, that I realized what a singular, unique, special photography experience this would be.

There was a sign welcoming Emmy, my puppy, and Abra, my kitten, to the space. I walked in and the deep sense of ease and comfort that both my pets and I felt was remarkable. These girls have created a soft, safe space where it’s no surprise that magic happens. Maura and Ann allowed my fluffy babies to explore, to become acclimated, comfy and confident in the studio (which is lovely) by allowing them to explore, plying them with delicious treats, and engaging them with a treasure trove of toys. Both Maura and Ann, who are apparently both part-time contortionists, caught such memorable shots of the two; they coaxed them into sitting and jumping and posing. They were patient and gentle and fun(ny). When they weren’t staging and snapping, we hugged, we laughed, and recounted stories about our beloved pets. I sensed that the work they do is as deeply meaningful to them as it is to their customers.

My little family’s Fluffy Feet experience was amazing. I can’t wait to receive my prints.