This past week I had the opportunity to sit down with Tiffany Whitsitt who founded Chatty Gus Studios in August 2016. Chatty Gus specializes in dog portraits and does a remarkable job in bringing out each dog’s individual personality. As an entrepreneur, she was thinking about her next big thing when inspiration came from an unlikely source, her dog Hank. While Tiffany, her husband Travis, and Hank were camping in the Snowy Range Mountains in Wyoming one weekend in August 2015, Hank heard a gunshot and ran away. The two searched all over for Hank but had no success. They began to accept that Hank might not be coming home and looked to photographs they had of Hank to aid in their sadness. Tiffany realized she had many pictures of Hank but wished she had a high-quality photograph that truly captured his unique spirit. Luckily, Hank was found and returned home after 60 days. After life returned to normal, Hank’s departure gave her the idea to start Chatty Gus Studios and shoot high-quality dog portraits that capture each dog's unique personality. Below is a transcript of my conversation with Tiffany:
Logan with The Articulate: What was your background before you started Chatty Gus?
Tiffany with Chatty Gus Studio: I began my photography career as a wedding photographer. I had been thinking about more ways to expand my photography business and the idea to shoot dog portraits mixed perfectly. I still shoot some weddings as my time allows but I focus the majority of my time on Chatty Gus.
Logan: What do you think makes Chatty Gus stand out compared to other pet photographers?
Tiffany: Every shoot is tailored and styled according to each dog’s personality. Since every dog is different, so is every session. I adjust to the dog and stay patient when trying to get them to calm down and pose. I use this to personally tailor the session to the dog’s personality which can include styling the set to include different props or a scene. I will include various toys that the owner tells me are the dog’s favorite and that help bring out that dog’s personality. My access to studio space is also a huge plus. The Articulate’s studio fits my needs perfectly and allows for the dogs to be off leash and feel more at ease.
Logan: Do you offer outdoor shoots?
Tiffany: I do! While most of my shoots are in the studio, some dogs are truly at home outside and I will adjust to make those shoots just as perfect as the studio shoots.
Logan: Where would you like to see Chatty Gus in the future?
Tiffany: Of course, I would love to photograph more dogs. Beyond that, I have started partnering with other small businesses to create a small boutique with unique dog-related gifts. They are really creative and most are handmade. It’s also great partnering with other small companies because it is a win win for both of us.
Logan: What has been your favorite memory so far?
Tiffany: My favorite memories really just come from hearing about how much the owners enjoy the portraits and how much of an impact they can have on their family. Our pets are a part of our families and often times we wish we had more pictures to remember them once they are gone. Chatty Gus has allowed me to help capture a dog’s spirit and contribute to a family’s memories of their pet and that has been very rewarding.
Logan: Tell me about Yappy Hour.
Tiffany: Yappy Hour is a collaborative event that Hayven Design, Z Catering, Staffing, and Events, and I have created. It’s a happy hour for both dogs and their humans. We’re hosting Yappy Hour on May 3rd at The Articulate and are inviting locals to come with their dog(s) and enjoy some time to connect with the community. Z Catering will be providing food and drinks for people as well as their dogs. All the food will be dog friendly and Z Catering is creating some unique dog-themed cocktails. There will be a silent auction, a photo booth, and much more. You have to buy tickets beforehand, which can be found here. We look forward to seeing everyone there!