Mary O'Malley is a photographer in northern Virginia who specializes in pet portaits, event photography and nature photography.
What is a "pet portrait?" It is not simply a picture of your companion animal. While the technical ability to take a picture is important, it is equally important for the photographer to be able to capture the unique personality of an animal. A combination of knowledge about many different kinds of animals, comfort in interacting with them, and a genuine enjoyment in their company makes the difference between a mere picture and a true portrait of your friend that will make you smile in fond remembrance every time you look at it.
If you are interested in having a photographic portrait done of one or more of your pets, please click here to read about Ms. O'Malley's approach to pet portraiture, products and fees.
Ms. O'Malley also accepts assignments to take pictures documenting events (e.g., dog shows, weddings) or taking pet portraits at special events.
Upcoming events:
- Exhibit at the Potomac Yards Barnes and Noble June 13-15
Recent events:
- Pet portraits at the Barrett Branch of the Alexandria Library as part of All Alexandria Reads
- Artwork (framed photos, prints on canvas, mugs, and a ceramic tile) and a FREE pet portrait session donated to the silent auction of the Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter's Cinco de Meow event
- Pet portraits at the Duncan Branch of the Alexandria Library
- a class on improving your pet photography at the Duncan Branch of the Alexandria Library
Click here to get more information about event services and fees.
Prints of event photographs are available from an online gallery.
Ms. O'Malley has produced a collection of stock photographs available for purchase, and will take photographs of specific subjects (e.g., wildlife, landscapes) to meet client requirements. The Washington Post "Fairfax Extra" section features one of her pictures from the animal shelter most weeks, and her work has also been published in calendars and used in advertising.
Examples of stock-type photographs can be viewed here: Prints of photographs are currently available from online galleries at SmugMug and DPC Prints. If you are interested in using a photograph for commercial purposes please to discuss licensing fees.
Personal Photos
The links below will take you to pictures of animals who once resided in the shelter where I have been volunteering for years, pictures of "my" breed of dog, the magnificent Irish Wolfhound, and even some pictures of my own hounds, cats and rabbits. Plus a selection of nature pictures, and selected other photos.
I have reformatted all photos so they should be viewable on most computers. Enjoy your visit!
Photo categories:
