Pet Photographer of the Year 2021
Hello, I am
Veronika Shandor
"I photograph animals so that their portraits reflect what only you know about them. I don't look for the perfect pose. I look for character, presence and connection. And when things go slightly wrong, that's usually when the best photo happens."
Featured in
The Telegraph
Daily Mail
New York Post
Internationally
Award-winning
FEP 2024, IP Awards...
Published in Media
Forbes Slovakia, Startitup
500+ clients
in 15+ countries
I’m the one who sees in your animal exactly what you do.
All the little quirks, the stubborn streak, the mad moments and the adorable imperfections you love so much.
I love honesty, humour and people who don’t take themselves too seriously.
No pretending, no unnecessary stress and no expectation that everything has to be perfect. Because it doesn’t.
All the little quirks, the stubborn streak, the mad moments and the adorable imperfections you love so much.
Perfect obedience doesn’t interest me. I love capturing an animal exactly as they are. I look for beauty where you might not expect it and turn ordinary moments into fairy-tale memories. And if that means travelling to the other side of the world, I grab my camera and go.
But I know you’re not just leaving your sidekick with me for a few hours.
You’re trusting me with a member of your family. So first we get to know each other, have a chat and shape everything around their needs and boundaries.
Their wellbeing will always matter more than the perfect shot.
You’re trusting me with a member of your family. So first we get to know each other, have a chat and shape everything around their needs and boundaries.
Their wellbeing will always matter more than the perfect shot.
I love honesty, humour and people who don’t take themselves too seriously.
No pretending, no unnecessary stress and no expectation that everything has to be perfect. Because it doesn’t.
The Journey to Photography
Photography has been my companion since childhood. I still remember the first moments in the darkroom, watching an image slowly appear on paper. Since then, I’ve known that photography isn’t just about gear, it’s a way to capture something that will never happen again.
I found my way to animal portraits through my first dog, Nabu. She was the one who showed me that animal photography isn’t about technique, but about patience, respect, and the ability to adapt to their pace.
I studied anthropology and spent a few years in corporate marketing. I left in 2019, and in 2020 I started photographing animals properly. A hobby became a business, and muddy boots and scraped knees became a lifestyle.
I studied anthropology and spent a few years in corporate marketing. I left in 2019, and in 2020 I started photographing animals properly. A hobby became a business, and muddy boots and scraped knees became a lifestyle.
I don’t tame the mischief.
I love capturing it.
My Approach
We talk before the shoot. I want to know what your dog is like, what they love and what bothers them. That decides the place and the time.
On the day, they set the pace. A few cues will happen, but I never force anything. When they need a break, they get one. When they bolt after a smell, I wait.
A session with me isn’t an exam your dog has to pass. They don’t have to sit, they don’t have to listen, and you don’t have to know how to pose. Just come as you are.
Who is my work for?
I photograph for people who see their pets as cherished family members.
For those who want a piece of art on their wall that they'll return to for years, not just pretty pictures for social media.
This is not an ordinary photoshoot.
But then, your animal isn't ordinary either.
This is not an ordinary photoshoot.
But then, your animal isn't ordinary either.
When I'm not shooting, I'm usually out in nature with my two border collies.
They taught me patience, sensitivity and the fact that the most beautiful moments can't be rushed.
They also taught me that obedience is a relative concept.
They taught me patience, sensitivity and the fact that the most beautiful moments can't be rushed.
They also taught me that obedience is a relative concept.
