Kirstie McConnell – From Pet Portraits to Italian Adventures, Revolutionizing Vacation Photography with Classico Portraits | Episode #202

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A family photo by Kirstie McConnell
A headshot of Kirstie McConnell

I just want them to look at those photos and relive probably the trip of a lifetime for most of them.

Kirstie McConnell

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A family photo by Kirstie McConnell

Kirstie McConnell has found a unique niche in the photography world, transitioning from pet photography to capturing memorable vacation moments in Italy through her innovative venture, Classico Portraits. Her passion for storytelling is woven into every image she takes, providing her clients with lasting memories of their family travels.

Kirstie’s adventurous spirit led her from Australia to Italy, where she embraced the cultural shift and transformed her business approach. Her focus on authenticity shines through her work, as she meticulously plans each session to reflect the connectedness of her clients’ vacation experiences. Going above and beyond by suggesting activities like cooking classes, Kirstie ensures that her photographs resonate with genuine emotion and joy.

An integral part of her impact on the industry is the Pet Photographers Club podcast. This platform has fostered a global community, sharing insights and elevating the art of pet photography, helping to establish it as a recognized niche.

Now embarking on a new chapter, Kirstie plans to expand her horizon to France and eventually Australia, bringing her unique blend of creativity and passion to a broader audience. Her dedication to crafting timeless legacies is a testament to her love for photography and travel.

In this episode, Kirstie and I discuss:

  • Her pet photography podcast and the influence it has had on the industry.
  • Why she loves travelling and incorporates it into her business
  • The significance of authentic experiences in photography and how she photographs the vibrance of her clients’ vacations.
  • Her plans to expand Classico Portraits into France, reflecting her continuous pursuit of new challenges and inspirations.

My conversation with Kirstie offers a glimpse into a photographer’s world where passion meets innovation, further illustrating how the art of photography can create enduring memories, even across the world.

Enjoy the episode!

An image by Kirstie McConnell

Q: Did you find the transition from film to digital difficult?

Kirstie McConnell:  I did shoot on film for school and kind of for fun when I was 16, 17 years old… I didn’t really have to transition, I suppose, because I only learned like the very basics on film.

A family photo by Kirstie McConnell

Q: Have you integrated pet photography into your services for Classico Portraits or is it still kind of just a thing you do on the side?

Kirstie McConnell: I have absolutely, I don’t really advertise it too much because my clients are tourists from abroad. For example, most of my clients are Americans and so they’re not bringing their dog with them for 10 days in Italy, you know. But when I photograph expats, so like other foreigners that live here in Italy, I absolutely encourage them to bring their dog.

A portrait image by Kirstie McConnell

Q: What do you hope to achieve in this great big photography world?

Kirstie McConnell: Honestly, you know, I would just be happy if all my clients have this amazing time in Italy because I gave them like some little tips and tricks… and they get to have like their favorite, at least one photo on the wall that always reminds them of that trip.

A portrait image by Kirstie McConnell

Find Out More About Kirstie!

Website

The Pet Photographers Club Podcast

Instagram

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Perrin lives as a nomad in Canada and spends his time shooting landscape photography while exploring the wilderness. Throughout his career, Perrin has been a wedding, portrait, and product photographer. However, his passion always leads him back to the outdoors, where he teaches people how to photograph and interact with the natural world.
Perrin lives as a nomad in Canada and spends his time shooting landscape photography while exploring the wilderness. Throughout his career, Perrin has been a wedding, portrait, and product photographer. However, his passion always leads him back to the outdoors, where he teaches people how to photograph and interact with the natural world.
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