May 2025

Could Your Pet Be a Star? Tips for Pet Modelling (and How to Enter the Pets Factor Competition)

Some pets just have that look. The head tilt, the soulful stare, the ability to sit (mostly) still when a camera appears. Others are pure chaos, but irresistibly charming in their own way.

Whether your pet is red-carpet ready or more of a lovable wildcard, our Pets Factor competition is your chance to capture their personality in all its glory, and perhaps even launch them into the spotlight.

If you’ve ever thought, “My dog should be famous,” or “This cat has more attitude than a supermodel,” — this is for you.

But what exactly does it take for a pet to shine in front of the camera?

Take a look at our guide to pet modelling, professional portraits, and how to make the most of this one-of-a-kind opportunity.

What Is the Pets Factor Competition?

Pets Factor is our nationwide celebration of pets with personality. It’s a fun, friendly photography competition open to all animals, whether they’re furry, feathered, scaled, or somewhere in between.

Here’s what you receive:

• Our overall winner will become the global Pet Face of Venture for 2025/2026 – starring in our marketing campaigns across the world for the next 12 months!
• Take home a £250 Pets at Home voucher
• A stunning Metro or Gallery Maxi frame worth £1,000 featuring your winning image
• Plus a bundle of exclusive goodies from our amazing partners.
• We’ll also be awarding 2nd and 3rd place prizes, each receiving a beautiful Gold frame of your chosen image (worth £400) – choose from a Metro Mini (15″ x 10″, frameless style) or a Gallery Mini (19″ x 15″, with 10 stylish frame colour options).
• And if you don’t make the top three? You’re still in with a chance – 13 regional runner-up prizes are waiting to be won!

No pet modelling experience needed, you just bring your pet, their personality, and a few treats.

What Makes a Pet Modelling Ready?

Contrary to popular belief, pet modelling isn’t about perfect behaviour or polished tricks. The best pet portraits happen when animals are relaxed, expressive, and simply being themselves.

Here are the top qualities of a great pet model:

1. Comfortable in New Environments

The studio setting is exciting and new. Pets who adapt quickly and aren’t too anxious around unfamiliar spaces tend to have the best experience.

Tip: Bring something familiar from home — like a blanket or toy — to help them settle.

2. Basic Commands Are Useful

Simple instructions like “sit,” “stay,” or “look” can help guide your pet into position — but they’re not essential. Venture photographers are experts at working with pets of all temperaments.

Tip: Practice posing with treats at home to make it a positive experience.

3. Personality Over Perfection

The most memorable photos aren’t always the most posed. It’s the spark in your pet’s eye, the tilt of their head, or that spontaneous tail wag that tells the story.

Tip: Let the photographer know what makes your pet unique, whether they’re cheeky, noble, shy, or silly.

4. Optional Accessories

A bowtie, bandana, or seasonal outfit can add a fun flair, but only if your pet is comfortable

Tip: Avoid anything that restricts movement or makes your pet uneasy. Comfort always comes first.

Tips for a Successful Pet Modelling Photoshoot

To help you and your pet get the most out of your session, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Exercise beforehand – A short walk or play session can help burn off nervous energy.
• Bring high-value treats – Snacks are the secret weapon for focus and reward.
• Stay relaxed – Your pet takes cues from you. The calmer you are, the more at ease they’ll feel.
• Trust the team – Our photographers are trained to work with pets, and they’ll guide the session with patience and care.
  

Even pets who are typically shy or unpredictable often surprise their owners with how well they respond in a professional studio setting.

Why Take Part in the Pets Factor Competition?

Even if your pet doesn’t win the grand prize, the experience itself is worthwhile

• A chance to celebrate your pet’s personality
• High-quality images you’ll treasure for years
• A fun and meaningful activity to share with your pet
• The opportunity to be featured nationally by Venture Studios
  

Pet lovers know: these moments don’t last forever. A portrait helps preserve the joy, the quirks, and the love you share.

How to Enter the Pets Factor Competition

Taking part is simple:

1. Visit the Pets Factor competition page
2. Choose your local Venture studio and book your session
3. Arrive with your pet and let their star quality shine
4. If your pet has already been photographed by Venture, you’re eligible to take part. Just complete the entry form and confirm your chosen image with your local studio. Any pet portraits taken from January 2024 onwards are eligible, as long as the image is still available through your studio.

Whether your pet is poised, playful, or just a bit peculiar, this is their moment.

After all, they’re already the stars of your world. Why not give them the spotlight they deserve?