You might need eyes in the back of your head when on set with your pets. Not because you think they’ll misbehave (but there’s always the chance this’ll happen), but because just about anything can happen. Well, it’s all part and parcel of live modelling with animals, right?
Animals are notoriously unpredictable – just ask any TV presenter or actor. Whilst it’s usually a positive experience working with animals, the trial and tribulations are notoriously evident.
Because we’re a nationwide employment agency that doesn’t specialise in one type of model, our Star Pets feature heavily in all sorts of modelling jobs around the country.
Millions of UK households care for engaging pets, and they feel like part of the family – affectionate, loyal and demanding human attention. Pet owners have been wise to the popularity of pet modelling for some time, which is something they like to report back to us. Pet modelling is due to keep true to its recent trend for years to come.
What can pet owners expect on a professional modelling shoot? What’s it like on set with animals?
Firstly, our client list which looks for the perfect pets aren’t just animal related. Some are pet brands, naturally, but there are plenty of healthcare and fashion brands on the lookout for photo-friendly animals to make their advertising campaigns go with a bang. So, don’t pigeon-hole animal modelling with pet brands.
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Secondly, our clients choose all models from the information and photos provided on their individual Models Direct portfolios. They won’t know your pet’s nature or behaviours, so you’ll be responsible for your pet. Any photographer or director or filmmaker will want to engage with your pet and they’ll always look out for their welfare, but ultimately as the owner you’ll be expected to be the one who makes sure your pet is as comfortable as possible on set.
Thirdly, some pets react differently to foreign sounds, bright sounds and unfamiliar faces. They may react unnaturally than when they’re at home. So be patient and share a joke with the photographer you’re working with; they’ll want to the shoot to go as smoothly as you do, but humans take directions and instructions better than animals do!
Also, please do expect several takes and some waiting around time. This is normal, and everyone needs to be tolerable when animals are on set. A typical day’s pet modelling shoot may well indeed last a full working day.
Bring any favourite toys and bedding and take bottled water and bowls if necessary. Though photographers will grow to be comfortable around your pet, you’ll be expected to be on-hand for the shoot’s duration.
The purpose of any pet modelling shoot is to fulfil the client’s objective whilst minimising an animal’s stress. If this achieved, it’ll be another Models Direct job well done.
