I was lucky enough to fit in a photo shoot today, this time of a gorgeous Shih Tzu puppy called Sophia.  She is just the sweetest little thing and spent more time trying to climb into my lap for a cuddle than posing for the camera.

Ain’t she cute?

It’s a hard life for a playful puppy!

More photos of Sophia can be viewed in my Photo Gallery.

Shih Tzu Breed Profile:

The Shih Tzu is a happy natured breed that loves children and other animals. They are alert and are usually good watch dogs. They are a low maintenance breed in regards to excercise and feeding requirements, however they do require thorough daily grooming to prevent matting of their long double coat, although pets can be clipped regularly for easier maintenance. Shih Tzu’s are a suitable breed for living in small apartments.

Shih Tzu’s are very intelligent and although they can be stubborn, gentle and persistant training make these dogs a pleasure to own.

They are generally a healthy breed, although renal dysplasia and slipped stifles or kneecaps is not uncommon (and the reason for purchasing a puppy through a reputable breeder or Rescue organisation).

As they also have slightly protuding eyes, they can be prone to injury.  The biggest health problem with this breed is caused by neglecting the coat which can lead to tangles, hot spots, painful mats and skin infections - daily grooming or frequent clipping are essential for this breed. 

More information on this lovely breed can be found on the American Shih Tzu Club website.

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Taking photographs of animals is not always as easy as it may seem, particularly capturing images that suitable to use as reference material for a Pet Portrait, so, knowing what I need in a good reference photo, I have offered a photography session for local (Perth) clients for a while. 

I enjoy photography so much that I am planning on expanding my business in 2007 to include Pet Photography as well as Pet Portraiture.  Definitely the best of both world’s (art and photography) and the best part is I get to play with lots of animals!

I have now added a Photography Gallery on my website with some more of my animal and wildlife photos.

The two below are of my Cat Tara (our rather unsociable cat who thinks that all humans except our eldest daughter have germs) and Gus, a gorgeous Rottweiler that I had the privelege of photographing last week.

Enjoy!

Michelle

Technorati Tags: photography, pet photographer, Photo Gallery, artist, artwork, wildlife photography, dog, pet portrait, pet photography, cat, Rottweiler