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.

Three cats play with a paper bag; one peeks out, another sits on top, and the third sniffs the ground.

An afternoon in the studio with kittens!

Nov 23, 2025

I had such a wonderful treat this summer; three kittens came into my St. Albert studio for their very own portrait session, and it was an absolute joy from start to finish. As an Edmonton pet and cat photographer, I love working with animals of all personalities, but kittens bring a special kind of magic. They’re fearless, curious, and completely unpredictable… in the best ways possible.These three were no exception. Finn, the brown tabby, was all spunk and sunshine. ...

Read More
Labrador retriever lying on a grassy path surrounded by wild white clover in St Albert..

The Life-Changing Power of Fostering a Dog

Nov 17, 2025

 I’ve always admired people who open their homes and hearts to foster animals. I wish I were in the position to do it myself, because fostering truly changes lives — both human and animal. Whether you’re fostering through a rescue organization or helping raise a future service dog, you’re making a meaningful impact that will ripple far beyond your home.When you foster a rescue dog or cat, you are literally saving a life. You’re providing a safe and loving ...

Read More
Couple in winter clothing kneeling in snow with a dog in a snowy St Albert forest scene.

Winter is on its way!

Nov 07, 2025

As the snow comes down outside this seems like a fitting post!How do you get your best winter portraits? In one word… flexibility! Winter can be a magical time for outdoor portraits in Alberta, but it also keeps us on our toes. If you’ve lived here a while, you know the most breathtaking frosty days often arrive with the chilliest temperatures. The greater Edmonton area can be unpredictable in winter: one day we have sparkling snow and dreamy hoarfrost, and the next everything ...

Read More
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 ...

Read More
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 ...

Read More

Thank you for contacting us!

We have received your message and will contact you shortly
View Receipt View Submission
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.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Thank you for contacting us!

We have received your message and will contact you shortly
View Submission
Leave this field empty
St Albert, Alberta, Canada
St Albert, Alberta, Canada
St Albert, Alberta, Canada