Pets are more than just animals—they’re family. They’re the ones who greet us at the door, curl beside us when we’re tired, and bring comfort in ways words never could. The moments we share with them, from playful leaps to quiet cuddles, deserve to be remembered. One of the most meaningful ways to celebrate that love is to capture it, freezing those fleeting seconds into memories we can hold on to forever.
That’s the heart of Hey Snuggles, a pet photography brand built by Lexi Getigan, who turned her lifelong love for animals into a craft that preserves the joy they bring into our lives. And with Hey Snuggles based in Cebu, Cebuanos now have the chance to experience this unique way of celebrating the bond they share with their beloved pets.
“My lifelong love for animals has always been a guiding force,” Lexi shares. “As I developed a passion for photography, it became clear that the most meaningful way to combine these two loves was to capture the unique spirit and unconditional joy of pets.”
And that’s exactly what Hey Snuggles does. Each portrait is more than a photo—it’s a memory frozen in time.
The First “Paw-trait”
Like many meaningful journeys, Hey Snuggles started with a defining moment. “The very first pet I photographed for Hey Snuggles was a pivotal moment,” Lexi recalls. As someone used to shooting events, brands, and lifestyle portraits, she was accustomed to working with people who could take direction and cues.
“However, with pets, I quickly realized how different and challenging it was. I vividly recall the realization that not all pets ‘listen’ or ‘pose’ like humans do. This difference wasn’t something I had fully grasped until I was in the thick of it. It truly opened my eyes to the unique demands and joys of pet photography, and that experience fundamentally altered my approach and shaped my journey with Hey Snuggles.”
That realization became the foundation of her craft—embracing unpredictability, patience, and authenticity.
Behind the Treats and the Lens
Pets don’t follow directions like people, and that’s where Lexi’s empathy shines. “Unlike humans, pets don’t naturally pose and smile to the camera. The secret is to understand and respect their natural behavior,” she explains. Whether it’s the sound of a toy squeaking, the jingle of a treat bag, or simply the reassuring presence of their human, she finds the little details that bring out a pet’s true personality.
“With pets, what you see is truly what you get. There’s no pretense, no self-consciousness, and no attempt to control their image. They’re simply being themselves—and that’s what I truly love photographing about, candid and real.”
Messy, Moody, Marvelous
One thing Lexi often hears from pet parents is doubt. Many believe their pets are too hyper or too restless for a good portrait. “The biggest misunderstanding is that pets need to be perfectly trained or always still for a great photo,” she explains. “In reality, capturing their genuine personality, whether playful or calm, is what makes a photo special. Hey Snuggles is skilled at working with all temperaments and capturing candid, authentic moments, even with the most energetic pets.”
This perspective is what makes her work stand out. Instead of waiting for perfection, she embraces the quirks, the chaos, and the charm that make every pet unique.
Pet portraits by Lexi Getigan
Setting the Stage for the Stars
Behind the scenes, there’s a lot of care and preparation that goes into each shoot. “First, I have a detailed consultation with the pet parents. We talk about their pet’s personality, any quirks, favorite treats or toys, and what kind of photos they’re hoping for. This helps me understand the pet’s unique needs and allows us to discuss logistics,” Lexi shares.
Before the big day, she gives thoughtful tips to help prepare each furry star—everything from grooming and pre-shoot playtime to bringing familiar toys and comfort items. “On the day of the shoot, I always start by letting the pet be comfortable in the environment and allow them to move around,” she explains. Treats and praise are always on hand, and pet parents are encouraged to join in, making the session fun and stress-free for everyone.
Memories You Can Hold On To
The reactions Lexi receives from pet parents remind her why this work matters. “There’s often an immediate gasp, followed by big smiles and sometimes even tears,” she says. Those photos become treasures, the kind that families return to years later, remembering not just the image but the life and love behind it.
Lexi puts it beautifully: “The portraits aren’t just pictures, they’re a lasting tribute to a loved one. Pets are family, and my goal is to create a piece of art that captures every pet’s unique personality.”
And if she had to describe Hey Snuggles in just three words? Lexi says, without hesitation: “Authentic, heartfelt, and skilled.”
What started as one woman with a camera and a heart full of love for animals has grown into something bigger. Lexi dreams of building a community around Hey Snuggles, one that goes beyond photography. “We envision a future where we can truly build a vibrant community around the love of pets,” she shares. “We want Hey Snuggles to be more than just a photography service; we want it to be a hub for pet parents to find joy, support, and a deeper connection within the animal-loving community.”
For Lexi, every wag, leap, and curious glance deserves to be remembered. And now, pet parents in Cebu don’t have to look far—Hey Snuggles is right here, ready to turn those fleeting moments into timeless keepsakes that honor the unconditional love between humans and their pets.
Photography Kyrra Kho
