Cats and dogs are starting to look over their shoulders (and tails).  

Unique and exotic pets, like alpacas, hedgehogs and exotic birds are finding their way into more and more homes. Without a doubt, these unique creatures captivate owners with their distinctive traits and personalities. 

And, oh how photogenic these unique, cuddly and sometimes-feisty critters can be! It makes a professional pet photographer like me want to be on a photoshoot right now.

In this article, we’ll explore why people choose these unique animals as pets. Additionally, we will share tips on how to get pet photos that bring out their charm. We also provide great sources of information if you’re thinking about an exotic pet for the first time.

If you’re new to the cool area of pet photography – exotic or not – check out our in-depth article on hiring a pro to photograph your best friends.

The growing trend of unique pets

There is general agreement that the exotic pet business is on the rise. 

People are drawn to these pets for their novelty, companionship or the opportunity to care for a creature that’s a little different. Whether it’s the elegance of alpacas, the quirky nature of hedgehogs or the vibrant colors of exotic birds, these animals offer unique experiences. 

Here is a recent article from Globalpetindustry.com:  https://globalpetindustry.com/article/the-business-of-exotic-pets-an-update

Here are a few examples of unique pets and how you can photograph them to highlight their special qualities.

Alpacas: Majestic Companions with Lots of Fluff

Alpacas, once native to South America, have found a growing fan base in pet owners who have enough land to keep them. These animals are loved for their gentle and curious personalities. They’re social creatures that enjoy being part of a herd, and their wooly coats make them not only cute but also highly prized for textile production. 

Alpacas are quiet and offer a peaceful presence, making them perfect for those seeking an outdoor companion. They are naturally inquisitive and intelligent. While often shy initially, they enjoy interacting with people and other animals. Their calm demeanor and soft, fluffy appearance make them a popular choice for farms and rural settings.

To really get a look inside this interesting animal, check out the great articles from Suri and Company on successful alpaca breeding. 

Photography ideas:

• Outdoor Sessions. Alpacas thrive in open spaces. Their wooly coats reflect soft, natural light beautifully, making early morning or late afternoon the perfect times to shoot. For example, fields, meadows and barns can all provide charming, rustic backdrops.
• Close-up Shots. Alpacas have expressive faces, especially their large, inquisitive eyes and long lashes. Close-up portraits (with or without the owner) will highlight these features, along with the texture of their wool. Consequently, these intimate shots create a connection between the viewer and the alpaca, emphasizing their gentle nature.
• Wide Shots. Use wide shots to capture the alpaca within a scenic landscape. Whether standing proudly in a field or lounging under a tree, these types of photos showcase the beauty of their surroundings while emphasizing their peaceful presence.

Are alpaca’s good pets? The answer is a resounding yes, as long as you have a lot of land for them to roam.

Hedgehogs: Tine Adventurers With Big Personalities

Hedgehogs, once considered unusual, have become popular pets thanks to their small size and low-maintenance nature. These tiny creatures are solitary by nature but are known for their curious and playful personalities. Hedgehogs are especially appealing to apartment dwellers and people who want a unique pet that doesn’t require a lot of space.

Despite their prickly exterior, hedgehogs are endearing little animals. They’re known for being shy at first but can be playful and active once they feel safe. Their nocturnal habits mean they are most active during the night, and they love exploring new environments. They often curl into a ball when they feel threatened or surprised.

Learn more about this overachieving Hedgehog superstar of a pet.

Photography ideas:

• Macro Shots. Hedgehogs are tiny and full of detail. Capture their unique features—like the quills, delicate paws and tiny nose—through close-up, macro photography. Shots that focus on their face as they sniff around curiously can be particularly engaging.
• Whimsical Settings. Hedgehogs love to explore small spaces, so setting up a miniature world with props (like teacups, tiny furniture or tunnels) can create fun, whimsical photos. This adds an element of playfulness while emphasizing their small size.
• Natural Light. Hedgehogs can be sensitive to bright lights, so stick with natural, soft lighting. Try to photograph them in well-lit indoor spaces or during outdoor sessions when the light is gentle (early morning and late afternoon), ensuring they stay comfortable while you capture their curious nature.

Is it a good idea to get a hedgehog as a pet? Thumbs up!

Miniature Pigs: Playful and Intelligent Companions

Miniature pigs are intelligent, affectionate and surprisingly social. Many people are drawn to them for their trainability and the close bond they form with their owners. While pigs might traditionally be associated with farms, these miniature versions have found a place as household pets. They’re clean, learn commands easily and have big personalities.

Sounds a lot like my dog!

Mini pigs are playful, enjoy puzzles and games and can even be trained to do tricks. Their social nature means they love being around people and often act more like a dog than a farm animal.

Check out more great information on these amazing animals sometimes known as teacup pigs.

Photography ideas:

• Action Shots. Miniature pigs are energetic and curious, making them great action shot subjects. For instance, capturing them playing in the grass or interacting with toys can be priceless photos. These candid moments will show off their lively, fun-loving personalities.
• Portraits With Props. Mini pigs can be quite expressive. Incorporating colorful props or playful settings, such as bright blankets or a cozy farmyard, can add a whimsical touch to their portraits.
• Natural Backdrops. Pigs love being outdoors, so a natural setting, like a garden or field, can help showcase their playful side. Look for spaces that offer lush greenery or rustic elements like barns or wooden fences to create a contrast with their small stature.

Are teacup pigs good pets? All the evidence points to YES.

Exotic Birds: A Burst of Color and Movement

As exotic pet birds go, parrots, macaws and cockatoos are some of the most popular. They are known for their striking colors and vibrant personalities. These birds make excellent pets for people who enjoy an active and interactive companion. 

Many are highly intelligent and can mimic sounds, including human speech. They are playful and can be trained to do tricks. Birds like parrots and macaws also have a strong sense of attachment to their humans, often forming lifelong bonds. Their vocal and animated personalities make them stand out in any home. In short, they are great companions and hogs for attention.

Here’s some great advice for selecting an exotic pet bird.

Photography ideas:

• Vibrant backdrops: The bold, colorful feathers of exotic birds deserve equally eye-catching backdrops. Using contrasting colors, like deep blues or vivid greens, can make the bird’s plumage stand out, creating a stunning visual effect.
• Mid-flight action shots: Exotic birds are graceful in flight, making action shots a fantastic way to capture their beauty. Whether they’re soaring mid-air or flapping their wings, these photos can showcase their agility and vibrant energy.
• Close-up feather details: Exotic birds have intricate feather patterns that are ideal for close-up shots. For the best photos, focus on their eyes, beak, or the texture of their feathers to create a detailed, dramatic image that highlights their natural beauty.

Birds, exotic or otherwise, are great family companions. 

Reptiles: Cold-Blooded and Cool in Front of a Camera

Reptiles fulfill two important benefits for those seeking pets: they have an exotic appearance and calm demeanors. While not as interactive as some pets, reptiles like bearded dragons can be fascinating companions, especially for those who enjoy observing their unique behaviors. They require less attention than traditional pets, making them a good option for owners with busy lifestyles.

Reptiles are generally calm and quiet, spending much of their time basking or resting. They have unique behaviors depending on the species. Snakes may coil up and watch their surroundings, while iguanas and bearded dragons love to climb and explore. Reptiles can also have interesting feeding habits and movements, making them intriguing to watch.

Reptilecentre.com put together a great article on the best reptile pets.

Photography ideas:

• Dramatic Lighting. Reptiles have a unique look that is perfect for dramatic, shadowy lighting. Use strong, directional light to create shadows that highlight the texture of their scales, bringing out their mysterious appeal.
• Natural Environments. Reptiles look best when photographed in natural environments that mimic their native habitats. Capture them among rocks, plants or even terrariums, with appropriate decorations to create an authentic feel.
• Macro Shots. Reptiles have striking physical features that can be highlighted through close-up photography. For example, focus on the intricate patterns of a snake’s scales, the sharpness of an iguana’s claws or the intensity of a bearded dragon’s eyes to create captivating, detailed images. Think of these like they are a pet portrait.

Reptiles as pets sounds like a pretty good bet to us.

Ducks: Friendly Backyard Companions

Who doesn’t like ducks? Daffy comes to mind.

Chickens have long been one of the most popular backyard pets. But, here come the quackers. Ducks offer many of the same benefits as chickens, like insect control and egg production, but with the added novelty of their sociable personalities. 

There are various duck breeds, some of which, like Pekin ducks, are particularly calm and friendly, making them great companions for families or individuals with the space to care for them.

Ducks are happiest when living in groups, as they are highly social creatures. They enjoy spending time outdoors and, unlike chickens, love being around water. Ducks are generally peaceful, only becoming aggressive if they are protecting their nest or young. They thrive when provided with a secure living space, access to clean water and proper nutrition. With the right care, they can live up to 10 years.

The best kind of pet ducks are pekin, Indian runner, Campbell, bantam mallard and calls, and Muscovy. The website raising-ducks.com wrote a great article on the best ducks for pets.

Photography ideas:

• Water Shots. Capturing ducks around and in water offers an opportunity to highlight their natural behavior. Reflections in the water or the ripples created by their movement can add a dynamic element to your photos. Think of portrait photography when capturing their serene floating posture or playful splashes.
• Group Dynamics. Ducks are social animals, so catch them huddled together, waddling in a line or foraging in the grass.
• Close-Ups of Plumage. Ducks have beautiful, often iridescent feathers that look stunning in close-up shots. Shots of plumage, the texture of their bills or the webbing of their feet can create unique photos that any portrait photographer would be proud of.
• Outdoor Lifestyle Photos. Ducks love exploring the outdoors. Capture them foraging in a garden or splashing in puddles. A barn or grassy yard can emphasize the peaceful environment that ducks thrive in.

Benefits of Professional Pet Photography for Unique and Exotic Pets

Animals are unpredictable, no matter how well trained. For a photographer that knows animals (and birds), this can be an exciting opportunity. 

This is just one of many benefits that come from hiring a professional to photograph your furry/scaly friends. You or a family member can learn more with our article on the advantages of hiring a pro for exotic pet photography.

1. Expertise in Animal Behavior. Professionals understand how pets behave and can effectively interact with them. They know techniques to capture natural, candid moments that showcase a pet’s personality. They make a photo session better.
2. High-Quality Equipment. The use of advanced cameras and lenses produce superior image quality no smartphone can easily duplicate.
3. Creative Composition and Styling. They have an eye for aesthetics, ensuring the right angles, lighting and backgrounds. They can create visually striking images that highlight your pet’s unique traits.
4. Post-Processing Skills. Pros are skilled in editing software to enhance images with color correction and retouching. This ensures the final photos are high quality and free of distractions.
5. Customizable Packages. Many photographers offer tailored packages and pricing terms to fit your specific needs and preferences. For instance, photography session options may include themed sessions, different locations and various printing options.
6. Stress Reduction for Pet Owners. You get to supervise! Hiring a professional allows you to relax and enjoy the experience, knowing your pet is in capable hands.
7. Longevity of Memories. Memories are priceless and professional photos serve as timeless keepsakes that can be cherished for years. Moreover, high-quality prints and albums created by professionals ensure your pet’s memories are preserved beautifully.

Also check out our other photography for other types of animals and birds: golden retriever photos, Weimaraner photos, birds in flight and wild horses.  

Unique can make amazing photos

In conclusion, unique pets offer a special kind of joy that professional photography can capture. Whether it’s a hedgehog’s quizzical stare, a bird’s mid-flight moment or an alpaca’s majestic stance, each has something beautiful to offer that photography can immortalize. 

If this will be your first time to work with a professional photographer, come prepared with good questions and an open mind to what might come out of their camera.

capture. Whether it’s a hedgehog’s quizzical stare, a bird’s mid-flight moment or an alpaca’s majestic stance, each has something beautiful to offer that photography can immortalize. 

(Photos courtesy of Pexels)

Todd Gurley is a photographer who has come to the professional party late, but has had a big boy camera since he was 14.

Todd’s love of photography always had an outdoor focus. It started with sports, evolved to landscape, and then wildlife and birds.

And now pets!.

Based in St. Louis, Missouri, but an Arkansan at heart, Todd lives with his partner in crime of 50 years Sheila and about 250 pounds of dogs. They have two golden retrievers named Gracie and Ellie and one black lab named Norman. And bringing up the rear is an additional 10 pounds from Sally the rescue cat. She’s in charge if you are wondering.

Todd has this other business with his son Drew called Redbird Advisors. Oh, and he now has this website which was first discussed 25 years ago.

No wine before its time!

P.S. The photo above was taken on our way to the summit of Mt. Quandary, a 14,271-foot peak in the middle range of the Rockies, south of Breckenridge. Colorado. There are 58 named “14ers” in Colorado, the most of any state.