B.C. photographer awarded gold at International Pet Photography Awards

B.C. pet photographer wins gold Chilliwack photographer Andrea Wafler is turning her passion into a business after winning gold in a pet photo competition.

Most dog owners have hundreds – if not thousands – of pictures of their pup on their phones. One Chilliwack dog lover and photographer has turned her favourite hobby of pooch-picture-taking into a new career.

Earlier this year, Andrea Wafler submitted one of her photos to the International Pet Photography Awards (IPPA) and won gold.

“My entry was of a dog named Everest. She’s a husky mix,” said Wafler. “We had the most amazing conditions that day and it turned into one of my favourite pictures, I would say.”

Around two dozen photographers from all over the world received gold, out of more than 3,000 entries.

“Not only are the images technically excellent, but I think that they provoked a lot of emotional response,” said Craig Turner-Bullock, an IPPA judge.

“We want to feel something when we see the work.”

Wafler, a part-time pharmacy assistant who also runs Good Mutt Photography, says the award has resulted in more business than ever, and she’s now aiming to go full-time in 2025.

“It means a lot to me to be able to be in this position, and I hope to keep doing it for many years to come,” said Wafler.

As a tip for pet photographers of any level, Wafler gives her number one piece of advice.

“I’d say patience is absolutely the biggest tip, for sure.”