TV roles to rolls of film

His job is a pet project

By Karen Tina Harrison | Special to amNewYork

December 10, 2007

Jim Dratfield with Caleb, who is now in pet heaven (Chiara Dratfield)

The Big Career Switch: From actor to "petographer"

Who Pulled It Off: Jim Dratfield, 47

What He Does: Dratfield is a photographer who shoots animal companions with or without their owners. (www.petography.com)

What He Used To Do: Dratfield was a Broadway and TV actor best known as Bud Keiser, the obnoxious paramedic on "St. Elsewhere."

Why He Switched: "I loved my work. But actors have too little control over their destinies, especially as they get into their thirties and beyond. I'd always been passionate about photography and animals. And at that time, the early 90s, the pet industry was exploding. So I decided to combine fine-art photography with pets."

How He Did It: "I didn't want to just trade 'struggling artist' hats. So while I was still acting, I got a grooming shop to display my animal portraits. I started getting assignments and eased into my new job."

What A Petographer Does: "I promote my work with a Web site, photo books, greeting cards and interacting with the pet community. I have an office manager and photo assistant. I shoot three days a week, usually in the client's home. I spend time bonding with the pet, which can be anything from a gecko to a llama. The pet is the boss."

Who Makes a Good Petographer? "You have to understand and connect with animals. You need a great eye and patience. You must be a diplomat, too. The pet isn't concerned with its image, but the owner will be."

How's The Dough? "It will be touch and go at first. A petographer's work has to really stand out, and you must market yourself well."

What About Perks? "You bring joy to proud pet owners. And It's really cool when you get a call to go to Hollywood to shoot Charlize Theron's dogs."

What Else You Should Know: "Before, I was in front of the camera. Now that I'm behind it, I feel so much more in charge of my career."

Got a 180º tale? Tell it to amNY180@aol.com.