Today on The Pet Photographers’ Journal, I’m joined by Dave Pidgeon, the creative mind behind The Dog’s Pyjamas, one of Australia’s go-to commercial pet photographers for brands like Dog by Dr. Lisa.

Dave’s story is a masterclass in following your curiosity, adapting with the market, and building a niche that truly fits your personality.

After two decades in photography and retouching, Dave left the world of restaurants and interiors to focus on something closer to his heart, animals.

What started as a small studio in Sydney evolved into a thriving B2B business, working with pet brands, food companies, and product creators across Australia.

In this episode, we go deep into:

• How Dave transitioned from pet portrait sessions to full-time commercial photography
• The difference between photographing pets for people vs for brands
• How to get your first commercial client (and what to say in that first cold email)
• Why picking up the phone still beats DMs and emails
• How to price for small vs big brands and when to talk about licensing
• Why Dave’s easygoing personality and reliability keep clients coming back
• And why building real relationships (not followers) is the secret to repeat business

If you’ve ever thought about adding commercial or brand photography as an income stream, or you’re curious how to attract pet businesses as clients, this episode will give you a clear, grounded perspective from someone who’s doing it successfully without relying on social media trends. That's right, Dave doesn't actually use social media to get clients for his commercial pet photography work!

🎧 Tune in now to hear how Dave carved out a lane of his own in the pet industry and what photographers can learn from his approach.

Dave Pidgeon is a Sydney-based commercial and product photographer specialising in the pet industry. Through his business, The Dog’s Pyjamas, he creates impactful imagery for brands like Dog by Dr. Lisa and other leading pet companies.

Known for his laid-back professionalism, attention to detail, and mastery of lighting, Dave helps pet brands tell their stories through photos and videos that sell while keeping things fun on set.

Connect with Dave:

🌐 thedogspyjamas.com.au

📸 Instagram: @thedogspyjamas

🎓 Join the Free Pet Photographers’ Marketing Reset Webinar

Ready to start booking your dream clients without discounting or social media burnout?

⁠⁠⁠Register here

✨ Want to Be Coached Live?

Interested in being featured on a future coaching episode? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply here

📲 Connect with Ina

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@inaj.thepetphotoceo

Email: [email protected]

Mentoring & Coaching for Pet Photographers: ⁠⁠⁠Learn More

Mentioned in this episode:

Register for the Pet Photography Marketing Reset Webinar

🎓 Join the Free Pet Photographers’ Marketing Reset Webinar