LEARN TO SHOOT + SELL STOCK AND COMMERCIAL PET PHOTOGRAPHY
Discover the ONLY course that teaches pet photographers how to pitch, land and shoot commercial pet photography.
JOIN US NOW
ANIMALHAUS:
COMMERCIAL PET PHOTOGRAPHY ACADEMY
This course is like a Masters Degree for Pet Photographers: — but without the crazy price tag.
Armed with post-grad level knowledge, real-world case studies, and TONS of apply-it-now insight, you can double, triple, quadruple, or 10x your current pet photography business in as little as 90 days.
No insider contacts or sleazy selling required.

Learn fast, apply it now, earn your investment back
and then some - right away...
With that growth, you’ll develop a pet photography business model that:
You’ll break into a market with predictable demand and more limited supply than private client work.

This 8-week course will teach you EVERYTHING you need to know to pitch, price, negotiate, organize, shoot, sell, license, and manage commercial photography:



YOUR MASTER INSTRUCTORS
I’m sure all this sounds good — but how do you know if you can trust the instruction, case studies, data, and strategies in this course?
Well, if it makes you feel better, I am one of the OG pet photographers. I've been in the game since 2004 and was one of the very first pet photographers to teach other photographers how to grow a pet photography business- starting way back in 2008.
I have been shooting commercial pet photography for clients like Petco, Purina, Trupanion, Victoria Stilwell, CityDog Magazine, P.L.A.Y., 2 Hounds Design, the University of Washington (go Dawgs!) and of course a few of my own brands (#dogisgood) since 2005.
Oh, and did I mention, I have a Masters in Marketing? I literally wrote the book on how to build a sustainable pet brand and I've built multiple six-figure pet photography businesses in two states and two countries.
My name is J. Nichole Smith, but you can call me Nic...
I help entrepreneurs (and especially pet photographers like you) find your big why and apply it., to create freedom and fulfillment through building a niche brand (instead of just a business).
BUT I spent the first 5 years of that time making all the mistakes (like being super broke, having no clients, undercharging, overdelivering and being completely clueless about what was wrong and how to fix it)....
Which is why now, over a decade later, I’m super passionate about helping pet photographers avoid the pain and drama I experienced early-on, by helping them stand out, be more profitable, and build more sustainable models into their business through the addition of diversified, higher-earning revenue streams and passive/leveraged income.
In addition to my 10+ years as a pet photographer, my expertise comes from a Masters in Marketing from one of London’s top business schools, a lifetime of building brands (including seven-figure gift + apparel company 'Dog is Good'), and over 15 years helping companies of all sizes grow their impact and their revenue.
I believe that time is our greatest resource and we shouldn’t waste it doing shit that doesn’t light us up, and since we all need money to live, I aim to help as many entrepreneurs as possible, create alignment between what they love, and how they fund their freedom lifestyle.
As a pet photographer, you've discovered what you love to do — now let’s make it PAY in a consistent, sustainable way!
...a HUGE part of creating that freedom can be adding commercial to your buisness model!!

Hi! I'm Nicole.
You might know me from Hair of the Dog Academy, an education platform that helps pet photographers master their craft and build a private client photography business. I’ve also been running my own photography business since 2010 and most recently created the Hair of the Dog Conservation Fund - a 501(c)3 non-profit entity whose mission is to protect our global biodiversity and inspire individual action by supporting conservation projects for wild animals and the surrounding communities.
In running three businesses, I’ve learned a thing or two about managing details. In short, I obsess over logistics, love to build businesses, and get especially geeked to help pet photographers build a life that they are passionate about.
Throughout this course, I’ll be your resource for building the backend of your business, managing the production of shoots like a BOSS, and helping you get results.


LISTEN, NO ONE ELSE IS TEACHING THIS STUFF
Last time we checked the internet,
we found no other courses on commercial pet photography.
Why? Because in commercial work we are all direct competition!
It's not a hyper-local business like pet photography for pet parents, so no matter where we're located (certainly within our own countries) we're all competitors.
So anyone doing great commercial business is super tight-lipped and often even a little defensive about sharing ANYTHING helpful. They’re living in a world of ‘not-enoughness’ - worried that anything they do to help YOU rise will take something away from them.
In the pet photography game, and in general, we think this is bullsh*t.
This industry is WAY better off when those of us who have learned how to navigate the weird and wild world of commercial projects and image licsensing SHARE knowledge with those who are just starting out. Yes, technically we’re creating more competition, but we're also creating peers, colleagues, allies and friendships.
And as you're new, friend, we want you to be successful.
We ALL started where you are - not so sure about how to price your images, find commercial clients, answer those scary bid request emails, or organize a shoot with models.
The photography industry is changing SO fast, and the pet industry is growing like mad. We need you to help create the future — I believe it’s our job as the pros who’ve gone before, to give you a leg up.
I want you to know how to evolve your pet photography business into a legit commercial entity. A powerful, purposeful, profitable force to be reckoned with, using your success to make a positive impact.
If you're down with that vision, and you’re interested in commercial work, then you need education, mentorship, some hard numbers, insider secrets and plenty of practice.
With this academy, I aim to give you as MUCH OF THAT as humanly possible.
Because we are better together ❤


What is Included?
- 8 Modules of Education - Led by the industry's most experienced experts - LIFETIME ACCESS
- Private Student-Only Community - LIFETIME ACCESS
- Templates & Resources - Pitch Decks, email templates & invoices you can take and use
- Real-life Case Studies See inside some of the most sought-after jobs, who won the bid... how... and why
- A formula to get more clients Learn how to actually FIND AND CONVERT commercial pet photography clients instead of just waiting for them to come to you.
- Conversations with the Pros - Become a fly on the wall as we dig deep with some of the industry's leading commercial pet photographers.
- And...So...Much...More.
WHAT IS THE INVESTMENT ?
If you were to hire a mentor to teach you these strategies - it would likely cost $10,000 or more - and that's assuming you could even find someone willing to share these industry secrets!
Here's what sets this course apart:
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Mentor-Level Instruction: Imagine having a mentor by your side, sharing secrets and strategies that are usually closely guarded. This course includes over 10 live calls to help you work through the content and TAKE ACTION!
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Immediate ROI Potential: The practical skills and tools you'll gain are designed to help you secure your first commercial clients quickly. Just a handful of local business projects, or even a single contract with a larger client, would cover your course investment.
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Lasting Value: This isn't a one-off learning experience. The techniques, knowledge, and networks you build here will continue to serve you, increasing your earnings year after year as you apply and expand upon what you've learned.
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Comprehensive Resources: From in-depth modules and real-world templates to exclusive insights from successful commercial photographers, every resource included is aimed at propelling your career forward.
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Community and Support: Beyond the course content, you'll be part of a private, students-only community, offering ongoing support, networking, and collaboration opportunities that are truly priceless.
This is more than just a course;
it's a springboard for your career in commercial pet photography.
JOIN NOW:
Commercial Pet Photography Academy
Let's add a commercial revenue stream to YOUR business!
DISCOVER WHAT OUR STUDENTS ARE SAYING...
And because we want to give you everything you could possibly need to succeed, we’re including a few bonuses…

Bonus #1:
Essential Resources for Commercial Photographers
Unlock the power of professional presentation with our comprehensive template pack, tailor-made for commercial pet photographers. This bonus gives you the tools to streamline your business processes, from initial client contact to project completion and everything in between.
Resources include:
- Pitch Deck and Email Templates: We're breaking down the easiest way to reach out and start finding commercial clients.
- Licensing Terms and Usage Rights: Navigate the legal landscape with confidence using our templates for licensing terms and usage rights.
- Pricing Tools and Calculators: Tools to help determine appropriate pricing for commercial work, considering factors like usage, duration, and exclusivity.
- Terms of Sale - Invoice: Complete projects professionally with itemized invoice templates that include services, licensing fees, and clear payment terms, reinforcing your brand's professionalism.
- For Brands Templates and Examples: Elevate your portfolio with guidelines and templates that help you present your work compellingly, appealing directly to commercial clients' needs and expectations.

- Project Management Tools: Keep your projects on track with digital tools and templates for managing timelines, task lists, and communications, ensuring smooth workflows and satisfied clients.
- Model Management Templates: Organize your model database efficiently with communication templates and spreadsheets, including automation tips to save you time and hassle.
- Trade Show Marketing: Discover how to set yourself up for success when attending trade shows as a commercial photographer.
With these Canva Templates, you're not just getting resources; you're investing in a system that streamlines your business, enhances your professionalism, and frees up more time for your creative work.
BONUS #2:
Make It Happen Accountability Package
Embark on your commercial photography journey with an extra layer of support designed to keep you on track and motivated. Our "Make It Happen" Accountability Calls are here to ensure you not only learn but also apply what you’ve learned. This bonus is all about action, offering three bonus implementation calls and a convenient way to catch up if you miss out live.

What's Included:
- Three Bonus Implementation Calls: Join us for three dedicated sessions focused entirely on working through course homework and projects. These calls are your opportunity to ask questions, get feedback, and collaborate with peers, all aimed at helping you turn learning into tangible results.
- Coaching Call Replays on a Private Podcast: We understand you're juggling a busy schedule. That's why we're offering replays of all coaching calls on a private podcast. Whether you're running errands, commuting, or just taking your dog for a walk, you can listen in and stay aligned with your goals without being tethered to your computer.
This accountability bonus is more than just an add-on; it's a commitment from us to you, ensuring you have the structure, support, and flexibility needed to make significant strides in your commercial photography business. Let's make it happen, together!

BONUS #3:
Real Talk Sessions with Top Commercial Pet Photographers
Step into the inner circle with our Real Talk Sessions, where industry leaders pull back the curtain on the commercial pet photography world. These sessions are not your average interviews; they're deep dives into the realities, challenges, and triumphs of commercial shoots, from cozy local gigs to grand six-figure projects. Get ready for raw, unfiltered, and sometimes eye-opening stories that will inspire and equip you for your journey.
Featured Conversations:

Allison Shamrell
- Early Lessons Learned
Allison shares invaluable lessons from her journey, covering everything she wished she knew when starting out. Learn how to navigate the transition from small jobs to high-profile projects, avoiding common pitfalls.

Craig Turner-Bullock
- Behind the Scenes of a Mega Shoot
Dive into the whirlwind of a massive multi-day shoot where still photography plays second fiddle to video. Craig reveals the dynamics, pressures, and strategies for making your mark and delivering excellence, even when you're not the main act.

Nat and Bill from The Labs & Co
- Dog Behavior and Ad Agencies
Discover how Nat expertly manages her canine models, ensuring they shine on and off set. This session is a must listen for every pet photographer.
- Anatomy of a 6-Figure Project
Nat breaks down a recent six-figure project, sharing all the details. Learn what it takes to land, manage, and deliver on large-scale projects, setting a new benchmark for your commercial work.
Each session is designed to give you an insider's perspective, empowering you with knowledge and strategies from those who've been where you aspire to go. These Real Talk Sessions are your gateway to understanding the complexities and joys of commercial pet photography at every level.
BONUS #4: Editorial and Book Publishing 101
Editorial is a whole different animal in the commercial world. We're diving into all the details in this bonus module - including how to determine if and when editorial work makes sense.
You'll discover:
- Free or Paid or Trade: How do you get paid for editorial work?
- What Makes a Good Photography Book: Find out the top things you need to consider to make a good photography book.
- How to Get Started: There are two ways to get started with creating your own books.
- How to Pitch Your Book Idea: We will discuss the important things you need in order to pitch your book properly.
- Bonus: Book Proposal: A book proposal outline to assist you in pitching your book idea!

How much can you earn this year and in future years with this new revenue stream?
It only takes ONE commercial shoot, or even licensing one image as a result of this course, and you've got a positive ROI.
That makes this investment a total no-brainer.
PAY IN FULL $3999

Backed by a 365-Day Guarantee
Investing in your business can be scary. You might wonder, "Will this work for my business? Can I really implement these strategies? Does this program truly deliver?" We understand those concerns completely.
However, investing in your business is the fastest way to see growth, especially in areas as specialized as commercial photography. It's a tough field to crack on your own, so we're offering a substantial safety net.
Here's our commitment to you:
You get an entire year—365 days—to fully engage with the program and see the results for yourself.
⚠️
But there's a catch:
This guarantee is conditional on your active participation. It's not just a "change of mind" refund. To qualify for a refund, you must complete the program, attend the coaching calls or watch the replays, and apply the lessons to your business. We need to see that you've genuinely tried to integrate these strategies without seeing the results you expected.
We're dedicated to helping you succeed and expand the commercial aspect of your business. That’s why we're giving you this risk-free opportunity to experience the Commercial Pet Photography Academy. Let’s grow together.
The Choice Is Yours: Where Will You Be Next Year?
As we look ahead, remember that this transformative course is an annual event. Fast forward to next year — where do you envision yourself?
CHOICE A
Stay the course. It's comfortable, familiar, but remember the old saying: “What got you here, won’t get you there.” Without change, growth is limited, and opportunities may pass you by.
CHOICE B
Take the leap with the Commercial Pet Photography Academy. Start the work, immerse yourself in the learning, and begin to see the transformation unfold. By the end of this course, not only could you have your first local clients under your belt, but you could also be on the radar of larger, more lucrative commercial clients. Imagine, in just one year, introducing a robust new income stream to your business, elevating your professional stature and financial stability.
Which future resonates with you?
Choosing to enroll is choosing growth, opportunity, and empowerment. It's about deciding that a year from now, you won't just be wishing for change — you'll be living it. Your journey to a thriving commercial pet photography business starts now.
JOIN THE COMMERCIAL PET PHOTOGRAPHY ACADEMY