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Meet KATE

I'm the human behind Underdog Photo Studio. I've been lucky to have many animals leave paw prints in my life, but our time with them is always too short. As a long-time professional photographer, that's what inspired me to found this studio - to use my skills to immortalize our best friends so we can cherish their love and memories forever. I know every pet has their own unique character and story, and I strive to capture them as they really are. There's nothing I love more than putting the spotlight on your pet and bringing out their inner star... Except maybe bribing them with all the treats they can eat.

Hi, I'm Kate!

CEO, Operations Manager, Master Prop & Treat Tester - Smokey the cat is the oil that keeps Underdog Photo Studio running behind the scenes. When he's not hard at work judging the photographer for smelling too much like dog, he enjoys long catnaps in the sun and shredding packing paper into confetti. At 13 years young, we think he's earned those extended lunch breaks - and maybe an extra Churu or two.

Meet Smokey

CEO (Cat Executive Officer)

FUN FACTS

I'm all about the animals

I wanted to be veterinarian up until I realized I wasn't meant for the reality! I founded this studio to return to my roots and help pets and their people celebrate their bond in another way. I believe our fur families are as important as our human ones, and every animal deserves a chance to find a loving home. Which is why we also give back to adoptable animals through our Overexposures Project.

I'm Obsessed with Photography

I picked up a camera at the age of 12 and never put it down. I certified my skills with a Bachelor of Art in photography and have been professionally bending light as a conservation photojournalist for 10 years. I channel my honed obsession with light, color, and detail into every image I make, whether it's wildlife in the ocean or wild pups in the studio.

I'm an Ex-Marine Scientist

And I continue to work as a marine conservation photographer to this day. I'm also an award-winning underwater photographer, which may be coming soon to a dog near you! A decade spent submerged with wildlife in remote fieldwork has steeled my patience and calm in photographing animals - nothing phases me. Bonus: booking a session also helps support this ocean conservation work!

Westside Studio

At-Home Studio

We hold our Westside Sessions at our pop-up studio location in Westside Santa Cruz on McPherson Street. You and your pet arrive at our site and we're ready to go!

We hold our At-Home Sessions in your house! All you need is a 12'x12' indoor space like a rearranged living room or empty garage and we'll set up our mobile studio in the comfort of your home.

We have two studio locations available depending on your type of session.