Meet Heather Colley | Family & Pet Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Heather Colley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Heather, how do you think about risk?
Risk-taking is a big part of my life and career, especially in the field of pet photography. Capturing pets often requires creativity and a willingness to step outside the box. I’m naturally a risk-taker, though I constantly battle with overthinking. It’s a delicate balance, but I usually find that the risks I take are worth it, and I rarely regret them.

I’ve traveled a lot by myself, visiting many different countries alone. Some might think that’s risky, but those experiences were huge for my personal growth and learning. I’ve brought that same adventurous spirit into my career, whether it’s trying out new techniques, investing in my business, or diving into unconventional projects. As an artist, taking risks is crucial. Working for myself in today’s ever-changing world has its challenges, but my passion for photography makes it all worthwhile.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Being an artist isn’t as easy as it sounds. A lot of folks think that as a pet photographer, I’m just playing with puppies all day, but that’s not really the case. Sure, I get to hang out with some amazing pets, but there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work—writing emails, planning shoots, and figuring out new ways to market myself. It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s totally worth it.

What sets me apart is my deep passion for capturing genuine, heartfelt moments, backed by my fine arts background. My fine arts education helps me see and interpret the world in a unique way, turning photos into pieces of art that tell a story. I mix traditional techniques with creative approaches to create images that are not just beautiful but also full of emotion and meaning. I focus on the special bond between people and their pets, aiming to make photos that really resonate with my clients and tell their stories.

Getting here hasn’t been easy. It’s been a journey with plenty of challenges, from finding my style to building a brand in a tough market. But overcoming those obstacles has taught me the importance of staying true to myself and my vision, even when it’s not the easy route. What I want everyone to know is that my work is deeply personal and passionate. I’m not just taking pictures—I’m telling stories of love and connection, creating art that I hope stands the test of time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Cincinnati is such a cool city with tons of fun things to do! If you’re into breakfast like I am, you can’t go wrong with Maplewood Kitchen downtown or The Echo in Hyde Park—they both have amazing breakfast dishes. You’ve got to check out the Krohn Conservatory too; it’s got stunning gardens and seasonal displays that are always worth a visit. Exploring parks like Eden Park or Ault Park and taking a walk along the riverfront are great ways to enjoy the city’s beauty.

When it comes to entertainment, Cincinnati’s got a lively cultural scene. The Cincinnati Art Museum is awesome, and there’s usually a concert or festival happening somewhere. I love hitting up City Flea and other events at Washington Park. For dining, The Eagle OTR is perfect for delicious Southern comfort food, and Shires’ Rooftop is the place for a rooftop dinner and drinks with amazing city views. With festivals and events happening all the time, there’s always something fun and interesting going on in the Queen City!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This is a tough one because so many people have played a huge role in my success. First off, a big shoutout to all my amazing clients who’ve trusted me with capturing the special bond between them and their pets. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

My partner, Bobby, deserves major thanks too. He’s always there to handle things at home, like cooking and laundry, so I can really focus on my career. Plus, he’s my go-to guy for hauling gear and offering support in every way. I’m so grateful for his belief in me and what I do.

My family has been incredible as well. My daughter, Rain, is my creative sounding board, and her ideas are priceless. And my mom? She always believes I’m amazing, no matter what. Her constant encouragement means the world to me.

And I can’t forget my dog, Luna, who’s the reason I started photographing dogs. She’s my heart dog and taught me what it truly means to bond with an animal. I wouldn’t be who I am without her. I’m deeply grateful for all the love, support, and belief from these amazing people and furry friends.

Website: https://www.heathercolleyphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathercolleyphotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heathercolleyphotography