Jill's BLOG

Welcome to the Critter Collections by J Shantz Photography blog!
Hi, I’m Jill! I’m so glad you’re here. This is the spot where I’ll share what’s new at Critter Collections, including special offers, highlights from recent pet sessions, and helpful tips to get the most out of your own photo experience; whether you're in front of my lens or behind your own.

With over 25 years of experience and a heart for animals (especially the senior and scruffy ones), I create warm, personality-filled portraits that celebrate the pets we love like family.

If you’re a pet lover in the Greater Edmonton area looking for inspiration, guidance, or just a dose of cuteness, you’re in the right place.

Small pug standing on a white surface against a beige background

Keep your dog dry with a studio session this summer.

June 16, 2026

This weather has been stressful.I know we need the rain, but lately it feels like the only thing I accomplish is checking the weather app and rescheduling outdoor photo sessions. It has been a long time since the weather has had this much control over my schedule. And now the mosquitoes have arrived in full force!With all of that in mind, I've decided to run a little summer promotion.From now until the end of August, there are no session fees for in-studio pet photography sessions. Summer ...

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Senior brown dog resting on a dark red blanket with its head on its paw.

Our beloved Charlie, gone but not forgotten.

June 11, 2026

Maybe you've noticed the silence lately—the lack of blog posts, social media updates, promotions, newsletters, and the pause of Breed Of The Month.Our beloved Charlie began experiencing health issues in late March, and by the end of April it became clear that things were very serious. As a result, admin work, marketing, and social media quickly fell to the bottom of my priority list. We wanted to spend as much time with Charlie as possible.Two weeks ago, we sadly said goodbye to Charlie. ...

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Woman smiling at a fluffy dog in a green outdoor setting.

VIP Mom 2026

May 1, 2026

SOLD OUT This year’s Very Important Pup (VIP) Mom sessions are once again staying 100% local!With everything happening in the world, I wanted to focus on supporting local businesses while still delivering something truly special. In previous years, my VIP Mom package included a beautiful album crafted in Italy—and they are absolutely fabulous! However, this year, I wanted to offer something just as meaningful, but simple and budget friendly for everyone. And the best part? ...

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A blue-toned image of a dog looking attentively, with floppy ears and detailed fur texture.

A personal project with cyanotype printing.

April 29, 2026

In a world where it has become increasingly difficult to tell whether an image is real or fake, I felt the call to explore some traditional printing methods. If you have been following me for the last few years, you will know that I enjoy creating Polaroid emulsion lifts. It is a fun, hands-on way to make images that are truly one of a kind. No two will ever be the same.Recently, I looked back at my early years in photography and decided to revisit some even older printing methods. I still have ...

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Do you feel nervous in front of the camera?

April 22, 2026

My annual Dog Mom Promo is just around the corner, and maybe you have a few reservations about stepping in front of the camera. While the promo doesn’t mean you have to be in the photos with your pet, I always encourage it if you feel comfortable enough to try.As someone who has experienced the loss of a soul pet, I can honestly say I am deeply grateful for the images that captured our bond. Those photographs mean so much more than a perfectly posed portrait. They hold memories of ...

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A brindle colored Pit Bull poses for the camera in Edmonton's top dog photography studio. It wears a bow tie and looks off to the left.
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St Albert, Alberta, Canada
St Albert, Alberta, Canada
St Albert, Alberta, Canada