ABOUT THE LONDON DOG PHOTOGRAPHER
Michael Wilkins is an internationally renowned photographer and cinematographer, driven by a passion for storytelling through imagery. Originally from New Zealand, Michael grew up surrounded by the art of photography in a family of talented photographers. This early exposure cultivated a lifelong love for capturing the world through a lens, and it shaped his journey to becoming a creative professional.
In 2013, Michael founded Involve Digital, a performance digital media agency that provided creative solutions to a diverse range of clients, including several Fortune 500 companies. His work with these companies allowed him to hone his skills in visual storytelling, combining artistry with a deep understanding of communication and branding. This expertise ultimately led Michael to expand his creative horizons and explore photography in more depth.
From Street Photography to a South African Safari
However, Michael’s passion for photography soon took him beyond the city streets. A safari in South Africa presented an entirely new challenge—capturing wildlife in their natural habitat. The transition from street photography to wildlife allowed Michael to explore the unpredictable beauty of the animal kingdom, where every moment was fleeting and every shot required quick thinking and an eye for detail. This journey introduced Michael to the thrill of photographing animals like zebras, nyalas, and lions in their natural setting, teaching him patience and adaptability.
How It Started
While living in Sydney, Australia, in 2015, Michael found himself drawn to the creative potential of photography in a new way. Starting with street photography, he was captivated by the stories that could be told through candid moments. The vibrant streets of Sydney offered a canvas of raw emotions, architecture, and everyday life—an opportunity to capture the human experience in a powerful way.
Capturing Man’s Best Friend in Hyde Park, London
Upon returning to London, Michael combined his expertise in visual storytelling with his love for animals, leading to the creation of The London Dog Photographer. Now, he brings the same attention to detail, patience, and creativity to photographing dogs. Whether capturing a playful run in Hyde Park, a quiet moment at home, or an urban adventure through the streets of London, Michael aims to reveal each dog’s unique character.
Michael’s deep understanding of light, composition, and the unpredictability of animal subjects allows him to create images that resonate with emotion and authenticity. Each photoshoot is about more than just capturing a picture—it’s about telling the story of a beloved companion and celebrating the bond between pets and their owners. With every click of the camera, Michael seeks to create images that clients will cherish forever—beautiful, expressive portraits that highlight what makes every dog truly special.
Making Fine Art from the Wild
One of Michael’s most rewarding achievements was capturing wildlife images that looked like they were taken in a studio—an effect not easy to achieve in the unpredictable environment of the African savannah. Photographs of the zebra and nyala are prime examples of this. Taken from the safari truck, these images were made possible by the perfect combination of natural light and timing. The warm early morning and late afternoon light highlighted every detail, creating contrast and depth that made these animals appear almost sculpted. The result was a series of fine art photographs that combined the raw beauty of the wild with the refined quality of studio photography—transforming moments of nature into timeless pieces of art.
Our Photography Process
Bringing Out the Best in Your Dog, Step by Step
01
Initial Consultation
We begin with a friendly chat to understand your vision. This helps us learn about your dog, their personality, and what kind of photoshoot experience you’re looking for.
02
Planning the Shoot
Together, we decide on the perfect setting—whether it’s a vibrant park, a cosy home environment, or a studio session. We’ll also discuss the best time of day for capturing beautiful natural light.
03
Preparation Guidance
We provide helpful tips on how to prepare your dog for the photoshoot. This may include grooming advice or simple activities to ensure they are comfortable and relaxed on the day.
04
The Photoshoot
It’s time to capture the magic! During the shoot, we keep things relaxed and fun, letting your dog’s personality shine through. We work at your dog’s pace, ensuring the experience is enjoyable for them.
05
Editing and Retouching
After the shoot, we carefully select the best images and retouch them to bring out their full potential. Our editing style is natural, focusing on enhancing the beauty of the moment.
06
Viewing and Delivery
Finally, you’ll have the chance to view the edited images and select your favourites. We offer a range of delivery options—from digital albums to fine art prints—so you can display your cherished memories in the way that suits you best.