Canines on Camera

Scholastic Art: What is your job?

Seth Casteel: I am a lifestyle pet photographer. I am also the author of Underwater Dogs, Underwater Puppies, and Bounce, which focuses on cats. 

SA: How do you take your photos?

SC: First, I spend time on land with the dog. We have fun and become pals. We start playing the classic game of fetch. Then I’ll move the game into the water. But I’ll hold the ball while I’m swimming so the dog swims after me, chasing the ball. Finally, I’ll let go of the ball, and it’ll start to sink. As the dog goes underwater to get the ball, I go underwater too and start taking photographs.

SA: What equipment do you use?

SC: I use a camera with an underwater case. I also use a couple of flashes, called strobes, on my camera. If the natural lighting is dim, or if it is late in the day, I may drop extra strobes into the pool. I wear a wetsuit to stay warm and to avoid getting accidentally scratched by a dog. 

SA: How did you decide to become a lifestyle photographer?

SC: I was working in advertising for movies when I heard about a litter of kittens that was born on the movie studio lot. I took photos of the kittens to help them get adopted. That experience led me to volunteer taking photos of the dogs and cats at a local animal shelter to help them get adopted too. Then I became a part-time pet photographer and did well enough that I eventually became a full-time photographer. 

SA: What skills make you successful?

SC: In addition to artistic skills, you need business skills. You have to be able to create a budget, market your work, and understand contracts and licensing. A lot of creative people struggle because they don’t know how to manage their business.

SA: What advice would you give to aspiring photographers?

SC: Find a niche and make it yours. If you are fascinated by your subject matter, you’ll always be inspired.