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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.

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 Chihuahua sit on a chair in a St Albert bookstore. It looks into the camera. The image is black and white.

Working Dogs

Jul 06, 2025

I had such a great time meeting Parsley. She is the official greeter at Bailey’s Books here in St. Albert. She might be small, but Parsley has a big personality and an even bigger presence. You definitely don’t go unnoticed when you walk through the door. After giving you a cheerful, tail-wagging welcome, she trots right back to her post behind the counter, like the little boss she is.I absolutely love a dog-friendly business. There’s something special about walking into ...

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A red dog is laying on a tile floor in a patch of sunshine. The dog is sleepy.

How to take better photos with your phone.

Jul 03, 2025

Here are my top tips for taking better photos of your pet with your phone.1. Get down to their level. Crouch, sit, or even lie on the ground. Shooting from your pet’s eye level makes your photos feel more personal and helps show off their expressions. It’s a simple trick that instantly improves your composition. Standing over your pet and shooting down can be a great photo but unless you emphasis it the image is just sort of boring.2. Use natural light Avoid using your flash. A ...

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A power supply for a photo print enlarger sits on a white studio background.

Darkroom Equipment

Jun 11, 2025

I will entertain all reasonable offers.The Time Has ComeI’ve decided it’s finally time to clean out my storage room and part with what’s left of my darkroom equipment. When I shut down my darkroom back in 2004, I sold off quite a bit, but I held on to one of my two enlargers. I thought I might hang on to film photography or maybe pick it up again someday.I used to have a full darkroom where I could develop black and white film and print in both black and white and colour. Fast ...

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A small mixed breed black dog sits in the grass at an Edmonton park. It wears a small blue bow in the hair in front of it's left ear. She looking into the camera.

Preparing your dog for a photo session

Jun 02, 2025

How to Prep Your Dog for a Photoshoot (Without the Stress)Getting your dog ready for a photo session doesn’t need to be a big production. A little prep goes a long way and helps your pup feel more relaxed and ready to shine.A short walk before the session can take the edge off extra energy, especially for high-energy dogs. Not so long that their tongue is hanging out the side of their mouth. A little energy released is great, but a full marathon is not needed. Bring along some of their ...

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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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PORTFOLIO

Outdoor Pet Portraits Studio Pet Portraits Portraits Of Pets & Their People  

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7804998182 35 Eastcott Drive St Albert, Alberta  

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Award Winning Photographer Serving the Greater Edmonton Area for 26 Years
Crafted by PhotoBiz
St Albert, Alberta, Canada
St Albert, Alberta, Canada
Critter Collections by J Shantz Photography Logo
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St Albert, Alberta, Canada