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.

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

VIP Mom 2026

May 1, 2026

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? There are more ...

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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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Woman sitting on a wooden path in an autumn forest with a large dog beside her.

Another Before and After Moment

March 2, 2026

As we slowly make our way toward spring; and into the busy season for outdoor photo sessions, I thought this would be the perfect time to share some before-and-after moments.As you know, I’m all about safety first. I always try to choose the quietest locations possible for photo sessions, and I strongly encourage keeping your dog on leash. The last thing you want is to be enjoying those special moments only to have your dog take off after a squirrel or another dog. And if your dog is ...

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Brown and white dog wearing a collar against a blurred green background.

Featuring some of my rescue friends

February 23, 2026

If you’ve been following my social media or my blog, you already know that I spend time at Second Chance Animal Rescue in Morinville walking dogs a couple of times a week. Every now and then, I take some of my favourite long-term residents out for a portrait session, hoping to shine a little extra light on them.My last post featured Chapo and Zane, and I’m happy to say they were both adopted before Christmas. Previous posts included Bowser and Maggie, who were also lucky enough to ...

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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