A New Chapter in Chicago Pet & Family Photography

Photo of a black and white Havanese dog in a chicago portrait studio.

Over the years, many Chicago pet owners have built long-standing relationships with photographers who documented their lives with their animals. When a studio closes, changes direction, or steps away from the work, clients are often left wondering where to turn next.

If you’re finding yourself in that position, this post is for you.

At Candice C. Cusic Photography, I work with clients who value continuity, trust, and artistry — and who want a photography experience that feels personal, calm, and meaningful.


For Clients Looking for What Comes Next

Photography isn’t just about a session. It’s about understanding people, animals, and the relationships between them.

Many of the clients I work with today come to me after working with another studio for years. What they’re often seeking isn’t “something different” — it’s something deeper.

My work focuses on:

  • Pets and their people
  • Natural interaction rather than forced posing
  • A guided, unrushed studio experience
  • Artwork designed to live in your home

If you’ve grown accustomed to thoughtful portraiture and are looking for a studio that respects that investment, you’ll feel at home here.


A Calm, Supported Experience

Every session is intentionally designed to reduce stress — for animals and humans alike.

I am the only portrait studio in Chicago that hires a professional animal trainer to be present during sessions. This ensures dogs feel supported and understood, allowing moments to unfold naturally rather than being forced.

You don’t need to perform.
You don’t need to smile on command.
You just need to be present.


Continuity Without Compromise

While every photographer brings a unique style, certain values remain constant: trust, consistency, and respect for the bond you share with your pet.

If you’re seeking a studio that:

  • Honors long-term client relationships
  • Photographs pets and the people who love them
  • Creates custom artwork rather than quick digitals
  • Offers a private Chicago studio experience

You’re in the right place.


A Thoughtful Invitation

Transitions can feel uncertain — but they can also open the door to something meaningful.

If you’re looking for a new chapter in Chicago pet and family photography, I’d be happy to talk with you about what that might look like.

You can view my Chicago pet and family portfolio here or reach out to schedule a conversation.

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    Chicago Pet Photographer

    Your best friend at home deserves to be celebrated.
Not just in your camera roll — but in fine art that lives on your wall.
That’s why I hire a professional trainer for every session.
Because your best friend deserves to feel safe, calm, and supported while we create something beautiful.
And because women celebrate everyone else in their lives…
Why not the one who waits for you at home?
    For the women who love fiercely — and the dogs who love them right back. 🖤
⠀
That kind of connection deserves to be remembered as art.
    From the shoot to the moment it comes together.
Guava. 💜 #chicagopetphotographer #rescuedog #pitbullsofinstagram
    During their animal communication reading, Sam and Frodo thanked their foster, Hilary, for saving their life. They also shared something about their past and their hope for the future: no more cages.

This video is part of The See Hear Love Project — the only project that combines animal communication with fine-art photography to help adoptable animals be truly seen and heard.

These bonded bunnies are ready for a safe, loving home where they can stay together.

Sam and Frodo are available for adoption through @onetailatatime.

SEEN. HEARD. LOVED.

#SeeHearLoveProject #AnimalCommunication #rabbitrescue
    Meet Horchata, an adoptable Chicago dog from One Tail at a Time.
She’s part of The See Hear Love Project, where animal communication and fine-art pet photography come together to help foster animals be truly seen and adopted.
If you’re looking to adopt a dog in Chicago, Horchata is ready for her forever home.
    Meet Phoebe, a total sweetheart whose expressive eyes say it all. 🐾
It’s always such a joy capturing pets like her—full of love, personality, and the quiet moments that make them family.
#CusicPhotography #ChicagoPetPhotography #PetPortraits #DogPhotography #ChicagoPets #MomentDrivenPhotography
    Meet Oliver the Corgi! 🐾
Full of personality and completely irresistible, this handsome guy brought so much joy to the studio. Moments like these are why I love what I do—capturing the bond you share with your pets and creating artwork you’ll treasure for years to come. 💛
#CusicPhotography #ChicagoPetPhotography #CorgiLove #PetPortraits #ChicagoPets #MomentDrivenPhotography

    Our location

    Located in downtown Chicago.

    1821 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL 60622

    By appointment only

    info@cusicphoto.com

     

    Available for travel internationally, for pets & family photography, and education for photographers. Send us a note for details or reach us by phone at 312-248-2939.

     

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