Barbara O'Brien

Hello there!

I'm photographer Barbara O'Brien. I'm based in Stockholm, Wisconsin (population 63) I live on a farm with my family, three dogs, eighteen cats, ten rescue Morgan horses, two ponies, seven sheep, thirty-some chickens, five ducks, and three very naughty goats. And as luck would have it, I'm not just an animal photographer, but a trainer as well.

My love for animals began early. As a kid, I used to sneak stray cats into my house, and since I wasn't allowed to have a a puppy of my own, I walked the neighbors' dogs instead. At 19, I eloped to have a horse. (Horse people get this.) I'm happy to say that yes, we're still married.... and yes, I still have horses. Shortly after that I created The Animal Connection, an agency providing trained animal actors for film, television, and advertising. Nowadays, I'm both a professional shooter and trainer.

During my career I've tackled a range of assignments, including obtaining a polar bear from New Jersey, capturing 17 cats in one shoot, and photographing a 1500 -pound cow in my studio. (Did I mention I have my own on farm studio? Clients love it!) I personally audition all the animals I photograph, and I truly love them all - and they know that I love them. This creates mutual trusts that allows me to get close and produce emotive natural photographs. But I don't just shoot animals! I photograph people too. And people with animals. And kids with puppies. Actually, kids and puppies aren't all that different - its all about finding out what motivates them, and then keeping them happy. I am so lucky that I get to play with animals every day. I really do have the best job ever.

If you'd like to see my book or meet in person, give me a call. I promise to bring triple chocolate homemade brownies, chock full of real Wisconsin butter and eggs from my own hens. I guarantee it'll be the most delicious meeting you've ever had.

www.barbaraobrienphotobook.com

- Barbara