When we did a story a few months ago on Paw’s Place Dog Rescue, they supplied us with a few photos of their pets up for adoption. They told me to attribute them to “The Photo District,” and I found out that this was a woman who took all their adoptable dog photos for social media and the website. The photos are terrific, and really make the dogs look like they would like nothing more than to come home with YOU. I just had to learn more about this, so I reached out to out to Bre Burge of The Photo District to find out what she does to make these photos so wonderful.
Can you explain what The Photo District offers?
The Photo District is a pet-focused photography studio in Wilmington, NC that specializes in portraits of pets and the people who love them. I offer both studio and outdoor sessions and specialize in custom artwork designed for homes. I also partner with local rescues to photograph adoptable pets and support community adoption efforts.
What is your history before founding The Photo District?
Before photography, I worked in data analytics and completed a master’s program where I first started exploring entrepreneurship in the animal world. When I moved back to Wilmington, I wanted to reconnect with the community and do something meaningful. Helping local shelters by photographing their animals was the beginning of everything.
What led you to rescue photography?
It started as a simple desire to help. I began volunteering for a local rescue and photographed a few dogs to help them get noticed online. Seeing the impact those images had and watching dogs who were overlooked suddenly get adoption inquiries made me realize how powerful photography could be for animals who need a chance. It quickly became a mission instead of a hobby.
What is the Seen + Saved Initiative and how can people and businesses help?
Seen + Saved is my ongoing effort to photograph as many shelter pets as possible and give them the visibility they deserve. Every image helps make them seen, and every adoption makes them saved. The initiative is something I have built entirely on my own time and my own dime, and I am now looking for sponsors to help grow it even further.
People and businesses can help by:
Sponsoring adoption photos
Sharing the images online
Covering the cost of a dog’s adoption session
Donating to keep the program running year-round
Every bit of support helps another pet get noticed.
How do you not take home all the dogs?
I actually did take one home. I met him at one of the first sessions I ever photographed. He wanted nothing to do with photos and just wanted to cuddle on me the whole time. Now it is two years later and he is currently curled up by my feet.
It is still incredibly hard not to bring more home. I fall in love with them all the time. But my job is to help them find their homes, and with limited space at my own home, I focus on giving each dog the best chance to find theirs. We have been talking about starting to foster soon, so I know that day is coming.
How does the perfect photo help a pet get adopted?
A good photo is often the very first impression a potential adopter has. When pets are at the shelter, they can seem nervous, shy, or excitable, but they just need a chance. The right photo gives people a glimpse of who they really are and helps them fall in love before that first in-person meeting. It can make someone stop scrolling, read their story, and start to envision them in their own lives.
How is photographing pets different from photographing people?
Pets do not understand the concept of a photoshoot, so I start by acknowledging where they are and using whatever motivates them, whether it is treats, toys, or squeakers. The goal is to capture their personality and the love they share with their people.
What’s the trick to capturing an animal’s personality?
The trick to capturing an animal’s personality is letting them be themselves and finding what motivates them. Once the people are in the photos, it is about observing their interactions, responding to genuine moments, and capturing the connection they share with their pets.
Are some breeds easier or harder to photograph?
It is less about breed and more about the individual animal. Some dogs are naturally confident, while others are nervous or easily distracted. My job is to adapt to what each animal needs, whether that is time, treats, squeakers, or a quiet space. That said, I do find pit bulls are often the most eager to please, and hounds can be the most stubborn.
Any tips for people taking photos of pets at home?
When taking photos of pets at home, use natural light whenever you can and get on the pet’s eye level. Keep sessions short and use treats to guide their attention, not force it. Silly noises can also be incredibly helpful. When I start a session, I always say, “Pets do not judge me for my weird noises, so please do not either.”
How should a client prepare for a shoot with you?
Part of my process includes a call beforehand to discuss what clients are looking for and how to prepare for the shoot. During that call, we talk about things like giving pets a quick walk to burn off energy, bringing their favorite treats, toys, or anything that shows their personality, and doing a little grooming or brushing beforehand. Most importantly, I remind clients not to worry about perfection. The best photos come from relaxed pets and excited humans.
What’s in the future for you and The Photo District?
Looking ahead, I am focused on growing the adoption work through Seen + Saved, turning each session into beautiful, lasting artwork for clients using the best products I have sourced, and incorporating pet-focused adventure sessions next year that highlight some of the fun activities our area offers.
What else would you like our readers to know?
Many times people reach out and tell me they have never had professional photos taken before. These sessions are a reminder that family photos are for everyone, not just those with partners or children, and that pets are very much a part of our lives and deserve to be celebrated.
