Love an aesthetically pleasing, candid shot? You’re in luck! They don’t get more candid OR aesthetically pleasing than these!
We’re excited to share the winners of this year’s International Pet Photography Awards. Established in 2019, it’s the world’s largest pet photography competition. And, would you believe some of the entrants are amateurs?!
Judged by a panel of professional photographers from around the globe, the awards are designed to celebrate the artistry and skill of pet photographers.
International Pet Photography Award Winners for 2025
Before we reveal the winners in each category, let’s just have a moment for the finalists. Each and every photo is pure art, and captures the personality and peculiarity of our furry friends.
Such a mix of artistic, evocative, and expressive!
Now we reveal the winners….
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Congrats to the overall International Pet Photography Awards winner:
Katie Brockman is a self-proclaimed crazy dog lady, and foster mom to kittens, adult cats, puppies, and even the occasional bunny. Residing in St. Louis, Missouri, she took out the overall award for these beautiful shots:
Of her work, she says, “Our pets don’t have nearly as much time on Earth as they should, and professional photos are one of the best ways to capture their memories. My goal is to create works of art that you and your family will treasure forever.”
Action Category Winner – Shandess Griffin
Canadian photographer, Shandess Griffin, is a seasoned winner! Taking out many awards for her work, it’s no wonder these beautiful shots garnered her the International Pet Photography Awards Action Category Winner. If you’re keen to see even more amazing photos, we implore you to visit Shandess’ website to admire her portfolio.
Canine Portrait Category Winner – Janneke De Graaf
As a pack of pet lovers at Mad Paws, we just can’t deal with this collection of photos from Janneke De Graaf. Taking top prize as International Pet Photographer of the Year last year (2024), her work is…well, world class!
Creative Category Winner – Katie Brockman
Documentary Category Winner – Emma Boyle
If you’re a sucker for a great canine pic, you’ll LOVE Emma’s portfolio. From New Zealand, Emma took out the title of Documentary Category Winner with these captivating photos. Since the age of six, Emma’s had a camera in her hands. She says, “Pet photography is about more than just photos, it’s about capturing connection, character, and preserving the legacy your dog leaves behind.”
Equine Portrait Category Winner – Renate Zuidema
Feline Portrait Category Winner – Mirka Koot
These are some of our favourites! The photographer, Mirka Koot, grew up surrounded by all kinds of animals – dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, rats, and hamsters. She says this is what’s allowed her to experience that “every animal has its own unique character. I believe every animal has its own soul and character. ” We couldn’t agree more!
If you’re just as mesmerised by these photos as we are, take a read of our 9 cat facts that will blow your mind.Â
Open Portrait Category Winner – Ellen Reus
What makes it extra special is that she won with three snake portraits. In many photography competitions, snake photos tend to be less appreciated than images of cuddly animals like dogs and cats. But that’s exactly why the International Pet Photography Awards is admired – they welcome all kinds of pets.
Pets and People Category Winner – Petra Nestelbacher
The team at Mad Paws HQ couldn’t get over these ones… Maybe because we really feel the connection between people and pets in these photos. True and simple love. Well done and congrats, Petra!
No pets to enter in the International Pet Photography Awards?
If there was ever a time to consider adopting a pet, these photos might just encourage you to take action. There are so many reasons to adopt a pet and give them the same unconditional love they’re so ready and willing to offer you. And, maybe next year you might be a finalist or award winner in this heart-warming photo competition.
Are you Pet Sitter with a camera roll full of pet photos?
Pet sitting often gives you a front-row seat to pets’ funniest, quirkiest, and most heartwarming moments. Some may say, the perfect material for an award-winning photo!
If you’re already snapping pics of your furry clients, why not put them in the spotlight? Next year’s awards are your chance to showcase not just your photography skills, but also the joy and personality of the pets you look after.
You don’t need to be a pro, either. Just a pet lover with a good eye and a camera. Who knows – you could take the next winning photo for next year’s International Pet Photography Awards!
Need some tips for how to take great photos of pets >
Want to see more captivating cat, canine & comedic photography?
Take a look back at the Comedy Pet Photo Awards winners from 2023 and also from 2024. You won’t be disappointed!
