For Cape Town photographer Trevor Samson, photography and animals have always gone hand in hand.
“I grew up always having animals around from as far back as I can remember,” he says. “Around the age of 10, I was given a cheap plastic camera as a birthday gift, and that’s where my interest in photography began. Naturally, my pets became my first subjects.”
Decades later, those childhood passions have come full circle.
After an award-winning career documenting some of South Africa’s most significant moments in history, Samson is now focused on a very different subject: the relationships people share with their pets.
From Photojournalism to Pet Portraits
Samson began his career at the now-defunct Rand Daily Mail and The Star before leading photographic coverage for AFP in South Africa during the country’s transition from apartheid to democracy between 1985 and 1992.
His work from that period appeared in major international publications, including Time, Newsweek and The New York Times.
Today, however, his camera is focused on wagging tails, curious cats and the people who love them.
A New Purpose Born During Lockdown
Like many people, lockdown provided an opportunity for reflection.
“I had a lot of time to reflect on what I had photographed throughout my career and, given the choice, what I would like to photograph going forward,” he says.
In 2021, regular walks with a friend named Sharon sparked an idea that would eventually become My Pet Project.
Sharon was always accompanied by her beloved Labrador, Sassie, who was nearing the end of her life.
“I offered to make a video of their walks as something for Sharon to keep.”
A few months later, Sassie passed away.
The video became far more valuable than either of them could have imagined.
“Sharon told me she had watched it at least 60 times, which helped her tremendously during the grieving process.”
That experience inspired Samson to create My Pet Project, a photography and video service dedicated to preserving the unique bond between pets and their owners.
Capturing Every Pet’s Personality
For Samson, great pet photography goes beyond a perfectly posed image.
His goal is to capture what makes each animal unique.
“Every pet has its own particular quirks and mannerisms,” he explains. “Once I notice what it is and what triggers it, I’ll focus on that and try to capture it.”
Years of experience as a photojournalist have taught him how to anticipate moments before they happen.
“I try to anticipate and react quickly to those spontaneous, playful bursts that animals often have.”
Whether photographing energetic dogs on the beach or creating quiet portraits of senior pets, patience and observation remain at the heart of his work.
Helping Nervous Pets Feel Comfortable
Not every animal enjoys being in front of a camera.
Fortunately, Samson has developed a gentle approach that helps even shy pets relax.
“Sometimes a treat works wonders,” he says. “Other times, I sit quietly at the pet’s level and allow curiosity to bring them to me. It makes them feel safer and more relaxed.”
The result is often a more natural photograph that reflects the animal’s true personality.
The Emotional Power of a Legacy Session
One of Samson’s most meaningful offerings is his Legacy Session, created specifically for senior pets.
“I have a Lab-Spaniel cross who is getting old, so I’m very aware that our time together is limited,” he says. “Capturing those moments is a wonderful way to preserve their personality and presence.”
The sessions often carry deep emotional significance for families.
“I’m working on a video for a client whose dog passed away last year at the age of 16. I knew the dog well because I looked after it for a week, and revisiting those memories brings up a lot of emotions.”
These projects often become personal for Samson too.
“What sustains me is the love I see between pets and their owners. It’s always there, always different, and always special.”
The Stories Behind the Images
While some sessions are emotional, many are filled with joy and laughter.
One memorable project involved a man named Keegan and his dog, Ukiyo.
“Keegan cycled several kilometres every day to work with Ukiyo perched across his shoulders,” recalls Samson. “Capturing them together in that dynamic way felt special because it reflected their daily routine and bond.”
His subjects have ranged from dogs and cats to horses, birds and even chickens.
One particularly unforgettable experience involved photographing a pangolin on a game farm in Zimbabwe.
“It was such a unique experience,” he says. “They are incredibly rare and special animals. I’d love to spend more time observing and capturing their behaviour.”
Creating Memories That Last
For Samson, professional pet photography is about much more than taking pictures.
It’s about preserving memories, emotions and relationships.
“While anyone can take photos of their pets on a phone, professional photography captures the emotion, connection, and moments that often go unnoticed,” he says.
“It’s experience, timing, and an understanding of animal behaviour that create lasting memories which truly reflect who your pet is.”
For pet owners, those photographs often become priceless reminders of the animals that leave paw prints on their hearts long after they’re gone.
Leave a comment