Photographer uses lens to help pets find their homes

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– Cape Fear Animal are currently filled with four-legged friends who are all looking for a place to call home, but now there is a picture-perfect way to take them home.

One local business is capturing the cuteness of animals while also working to help save them.

Dogs in sunglasses, Cats leaping through the air, it’s not your typical photo shoot, but for one local photographer, it’s just another day on the job.

“I’ve always loved pets. To me, they are much easier than people.”

Breanna Burge is the owner of The Photo District on Princess Street, a studio where she expresses her love for animals. That passion has grown so much that she began helping rescue pets by doing what comes naturally — photography.

“I work with rescues and shelters to take photos, but I also host foster photo days for groups that don’t have a location. They can come in with their adoptable pets and hopefully get them adopted.”

With the help of sponsors, donations and paid private photo sessions, Burge launched the “Seen and Saved Initiative” two years ago. She says her work has already helped hundreds of animals find homes.

“Last year, we were able to photograph more than 300 pets, and within that time frame, over 200 were adopted,” said Burge.  “I looked at the stats for this year — we’ve already photographed 100, and we’re at about 50 adoptions. It just shows how important visibility is for them.”

One of the pets now getting that visibility is Lulu, a 4-month-old puppy.

“Lulu is at such a great age, and she’s really smart. She’s picked up a lot of commands in her foster home.”

For those who can’t adopt, fostering is another option. Gabby Fox, who works with Long Road Home Rescue, says it’s a meaningful way to help.

“It’s just the most rewarding experience to watch them grow and eventually go to their forever homes, to see them with their people. I would definitely recommend anybody foster — it’s an awesome experience.”

If you want to book a private session, or adopt a pet locally, head to their website.