Valerie Shaff has been making commissioned portraits of animals and their people for more than 25 years. Animals are compelling subjects because they are unselfconscious and available for engagement. Her job is to capture those iconic moments and make an image equal to them.

She works indoors or outdoors with natural light, in an environment selected together with her clients. She can also create a composition in her portable studio, using a backdrop and controlled lighting. The result is a remarkably detailed, dramatic portrait, an iconic piece made to live with and be loved for years to come.