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.

Black and white dog standing on a gravel path near a lake with trees in the background.

Adoptable Maggie

Oct 27, 2025

Meet Maggie! This beautiful Pitbull is one of my favourite walking buddies from the shelter. I honestly don’t understand how she hasn’t found her forever home yet. In true Pitbull fashion, she is snuggly, silly, and full of personality. She’ll have you laughing in no time with her goofy antics and spunky charm.I will add that she’s strong... really strong. She’ll need someone patient and dedicated to help her learn not to pull quite so hard on the lead. But maybe ...

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Small dog with a red scarf running on grass with blurred autumn foliage background.

Sweet and Sassy Meg

Oct 20, 2025

It has been a joy to photograph Meg multiple times over the past five years. If you've explored my website, you've likely come across images from our earlier sessions. She's as spunky as ever and absolutely adorable. And those ears... simply the cutest!At around 14 years old now, Meg presents a unique challenge when it comes to photography. With age, many dogs experience increased anxiety or confusion during portrait sessions, making them less responsive to treats and commands. This is a common ...

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A black dog stands on a grassy path in a lush forest, with trees and soft sunlight in the background.

An evening with Bowser

Oct 14, 2025

Before the vibrant hues of autumn began to unfold, I took some time to bond with my four-legged rescue friends. Bowser, a delightful canine at Second Chance Animal Rescue in Morninville, has captured my heart during my visits. At approximately 5 years old, Bowser radiates warmth and friendliness. While he may feel a little uncertain around small children; a common sentiment among many, his calm nature is truly remarkable. He strolls with grace on a leash, taking the time to explore every ...

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A happy dog stands on green grass with a forest background under a cloudy sky.

Lily

Sep 26, 2025

I met Lily on her very last day. It is never how I hope to meet new clients, yet sometimes it is the reality of this work. Lily's dad had reached out earlier in the summer and we had talked about the possibility of both a summer and a fall session, as he knew their time together was becoming limited. But as so many of us with senior dogs know all too well, those precious days can slip away faster than we are prepared for.Rain threated but didn't transpire. We met near there home. A place ...

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Capture your special bond

Jul 22, 2025

Meet Igasho! His name is Indigenous and means “wanderer” — a fitting name for such a soulful pup. I met Igasho and his mom back in June for a session, and let me tell you, this boy stole my heart. Look at those eyes! His mom adopted him through one of the incredible rescue groups here in the Edmonton area. I had been told he could be a little shy around strangers, but we hit it off right away. It’s hard to stay aloof when I show up with liver treats… and when the ...

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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