Founder Interview Drew Bognaes, Whisker & Howl Pet Photography
Photo by: Drew Bognaes
Whisker & Howl Photography, based out of Sacramento, CA and founded by Drew Bognaes, is dedicated to capturing the authentic personalities of adoptable animals to help them find loving homes. With a deep-rooted passion for animal welfare and over a decade of professional experience in the pet industry, Drew brings a unique blend of empathy and artistry to every photoshoot. Recognizing the power of a compelling image, Drew uses photography to highlight the individuality and charm of each animal, making them more approachable and desirable to potential adopters. This heartfelt approach stems from Drew's lifelong bond with animals, shaped by early experiences of seeking comfort and companionship in pets during challenging times.
Drew's journey into photography was a natural extension of years spent caring for animals and an enduring love for visual storytelling. After countless clients admired the candid iPhone snapshots of their pets, Drew invested in professional photography equipment and honed their craft. Today, Whisker & Howl Photography not only captures stunning portraits of pets but also plays a meaningful role in rescue and volunteer work by providing shelters and adoption agencies with captivating images that give animals a better chance at adoption. Drew's work is a testament to their belief that every animal deserves to be seen, loved, and understood—and that a single photograph can be the bridge between an animal and their forever home.
Check out the interview below!
Can you walk us through your professional journey and how you got to where you are today?
I've been working with animals professionally for nearly 12 years, exploring almost every area of the pet industry. Early on, I struggled working for large companies and corporations because they often lacked attention to detail and quality of care—two things I prioritize deeply. I've always put animals and their well-being first, which isn't always how larger companies operate. This led me to open my own pet care business, which continues to thrive today. In fact, I'm not currently taking on new pet care clients because my schedule is packed, and I've shifted much of my focus to my photography business.
My passion lies in capturing an animal's true nature and the bond between human and animal. I also find fulfillment through rescue and volunteer work.
My connection with animals runs deep. I was a very anxious kid—and still am an anxious person—so I found a lot of comfort in animals. Some of my earliest memories are of sitting in the backyard with my dog. Growing up in a difficult household, I often felt lonely and spent most of my time with animals: dogs, cats, rats—you name it.
When it comes to my pet care business, I see myself more as a pet nanny than just a pet sitter or dog walker. Some clients pay me simply to sit on the couch with their dog, providing companionship. I also help by walking dogs for those who can't, taking pets to vet appointments, grooming them, brushing their teeth—whatever my clients physically can't do. My services cover a wide range of care, but at its core, it's mostly pet sitting and dog walking.
What inspired you to offer the services you provide?
I’ve loved photography since I was very young! I was always taking photos as a kid, whether it was with a Polaroid camera, flip phone, or a dirt cheap digital camera. I didn’t train professionally in photography until my mid 20s, after years of my clients telling me I took such stunning iPhone photos of their pets. I purchased my first professional camera and never looked back.
What is one of the biggest challenges you have faced in your journey as a service provider, and what did you do to overcome this?
The biggest challenge I've faced—and still navigate—is choosing my battles when advocating for animals.
One of the first lessons I learned in pet care is that while many people love animals, they don't always understand how to respect them.
My professional training in animal behavior and body language allows me to notice when animals are anxious, uncomfortable, or even in pain—signs that often go unnoticed by others. I do my best to gently educate pet owners and advocate for the animals who don’t have a voice.
Setting boundaries has been crucial for me. Many of my clients tell me they appreciate that I feel more like a friend than a typical service provider, which has helped me build lasting relationships—some spanning over a decade. One client, for example, is now on their fourth dog since I started working with them. That personal connection is important, but it can blur boundaries, especially when I notice pet owners unintentionally neglecting their pet's needs.
It's not always about obvious mistreatment. Often, it's about educating owners on animal body language and behavior. For example, many people assume a wagging tail means a dog is happy, but it can also signal agitation or aggression. Another common scenario I saw while working in dog grooming involved owners trying to soothe their pets during drop-off by saying, "Mommy has to go, but it's okay! Here's a treat!" This well-meaning behavior can actually increase a pet's anxiety. Navigating these conversations thoughtfully can be challenging, but it's essential for the well-being of the animals in my care.
If you could give one piece of advice to future LGBTQ+ service providers within your field, what would it be?
Both the pet industry and photography industry are popular with queer people, so you'll fit right in.
Be creative, have fun, and most importantly, try not to compare yourself to others. We're creating art, and no one's art is the same for a reason!
For me, especially with photography, it can be easy to fall into the comparison trap—especially on Instagram, where most photographers share their work. It’s natural to look at others in your niche and feel like they’re competition, but the truth is, there are so many people out there who want to hire us. There’s nothing wrong with another photographer getting work—there's plenty to go around.
When I first started, I saw other photographers working in certain styles and thought, "I need to do that to make money" or "I have to mimic that to look professional." But I quickly learned that people are drawn to authenticity—they want to see your unique style.
Once I stopped comparing myself to others, I started thinking, "Oh, I would do this differently," and that mindset helped me develop my own artistic voice. Embracing your individuality is key to standing out and finding success.
How does being openly queer inspire or impact your business?
Being openly queer means I get to put other queer people at ease. I've had that moment on a business call or during a meeting where a client hesitantly mentions having a same-sex partner, or that they use they/them pronouns, or they're hiring me as a way to celebrate their top surgery, and so on. And in the next moment, when I slip in some of my own queerness into the conversation, or they go to shake my hand and see my pride bracelet, I can see and hear them relax. We find community and comfort in those moments.
What brands or services by LGBTQ+ founders are your go-to's and why?
Erica Danger, owner of The Catnip Dispensary - an experienced rescuer and cat advocate, they create quality products!
Susan Stewart, owner of Strapping (3 locations) in Sacramento - community focused and positive mentality
Herd and Flock Animal Sanctuary in Vacaville - they're doing such important work for animals in need!
Who is your favorite LGBTQ+ celebrity or figure, and why?
Eugene Lee Yang - he's a true artist and an inspiration to so many young people.
Can you share one fun fact about yourself?
I live with four chaos gremlins, also known as cats! Their names are Desmond, Zeke, Masudi, and Asmodeus. They bring me more joy than I can articulate.
