About Me

Favorite animal?
A pig. It’s been my favorite animal since I was 5.

Go-to comfort food?
Oreos and a glass of milk ofcourse!

Ideal weekend getaway?
Anywhere with soft sand and clear waters.

Coffee or tea?
Neither. Yes, it’s true.

Favorite season?
The spring for sure.

One thing you can’t live without?
My pillow. It travels with me.

Dream pet subject?
Oh, I’d love to photograph a sloth.

Let’s Chat

Ready to let your brand stand out from the pack? I’m all ears.

E: michelle@michelleruss.com

Although animal photography is my profession, animal training is my hobby. This unique blend not only deepens my understanding of animal language but also allows me to ensure each animal is as comfortable on set as they are in their own fur. Away from the lens, I’m either making memories with my family, balancing on my paddleboard on Lake Michigan, or landing a solid punch in boxing class.

Featured In

Podcast: Focus on Women
Tune into our chat with Chicago based photographer, Michelle Russ. We talk about her journey that took her to the world of photographing dogs, cats, and the brands that love them.   Read More

Artist Spotlight: MDRN Creative
Today we are interviewing animal photographer and MDRN’s founder Michelle Russ and learning about her journey of transitioning from a fashion photographer to an animal photographer.  Read More

Services Availabile

Stills & Motion  |  Art Direction  |  Production   |  Animal Talent Sourcing  |  Animal Handler  |   Tail Wag Coordinator

Let’s Chat

Ready to let your brand stand out from the pack? I’m all ears.

E: michelle@michelleruss.com

Represented by: Carolyn Somlo Talent
E: carolyn@somlotalent.com 
P: 312-209-8042

About Me

Favorite animal?
A pig. It’s been my favorite animal since I was 5.

Go-to comfort food?
Oreos and a glass of milk ofcourse!

Ideal weekend getaway?
Anywhere with soft sand and clear waters.

Coffee or tea?
Neither. Yes, it’s true.

Favorite season?
The spring for sure.

One thing you can’t live without?
My pillow. It travels with me.

Dream pet subject?
Oh, I’d love to photograph a sloth.

Although animal photography is my profession, animal training is my hobby. This unique blend not only deepens my understanding of animal language but also allows me to ensure each animal is as comfortable on set as they are in their own fur. Away from the lens, I’m either making memories with my family, balancing on my paddleboard on Lake Michigan, or landing a solid punch in boxing class.

Featured In

Podcast: Focus on Women
Tune into our chat with Chicago based photographer, Michelle Russ. We talk about her journey that took her to the world of photographing dogs, cats, and the brands that love them.   Read More

Artist Spotlight: MDRN Creative
Today we are interviewing animal photographer and MDRN’s founder Michelle Russ and learning about her journey of transitioning from a fashion photographer to an animal photographer.  Read More

Services Availabile

Stills & Motion  |  Art Direction  |  Production   |  Animal Talent Sourcing  |  Animal Handler  |   Tail Wag Coordinator