Not much has happened today which, as you know, is how I and my back like it.  No drama, no fuss.

Everyone behaved at breakfast and that always makes life simple.  Afterwards, I spent my morning on the phone to a physiotherapist who phoned to talk about my GP referral (he never mentioned that). We had a good conversation and I felt I was understood and a plan might be made. You never know.  I am optimistic.

Then some games with Pepper, which involved me trying not to be chewed while someone tickled her tummy!

 

Pepper is (mostly) adorable and very pleased with herself because a few days back, she caught herself a mouse!  All her very own work too.

Because Pepper wanted to bring it home, I had to swap it out for one of the sheeps’ biccies to get her to give it to me to dispose of. Fair exchange is no robbery in this house.  She was a very good girl about this otherwise she would run around with the mouse in her mouth, tail hanging out like a gruesome lollipop!

The old horses and ponies are doing very well living in the centre of the summer track.  The two year old grass there is slowly being eaten down and will hopefully last a little while longer.  My plan is to keep them in their rugs (either a rain sheet or a 50 – 200g fill depending on the weather) while they live outside in bad weather 24/7.  That way, their rugs will do the job of keeping them dry and warm. I think they are happier like this and have wintered better.  They move around more too.

Anyway, that’s the plan.  It’s not a very cheap one, though.  I have learned the hard way that you get what you pay for.

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February 18, 2026
Guest Contributor

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog!

As long as I can remember, I’ve been rescuing animals of all kinds — turtles, lizards, snakes, guinea pigs, and more.

Heather Hallingse

Saving them has always been part of who I am.

Heather Hallingse

Story submitted by Heather Hallingse

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!

Guest Contributor

If you have ever wanted to create professional-quality photos without hiring a photographer, self-shoot photo studios may be the solution you have been looking for. 

These studios allow you to step into a fully equipped space, control lighting, backgrounds, and camera settings, and take your own photos at your own pace. With the rise of social media content, e-commerce, and personal branding, self-shoot studios are becoming increasingly popular for both professionals and hobbyists. 

Understanding how they work, the benefits they provide, and the situations in which they may not be the best choice can help you decide if a self-shoot studio is right for you.

How Self-Shoot Photo Studios Work

Self-shoot photo studios are designed to give you control over the photography process in a professional setting. 

Typically, the studio provides a camera, lighting setup, tripods, backdrops, and sometimes props, mirrors, or green screens. You can adjust camera settings like exposure, aperture, and shutter speed, often through touchscreens or connected tablets. 

Some studios provide automated systems that allow you to trigger the camera remotely, set timers, or even control lighting presets for portrait, product, or social media shots.

Many self-shoot studios operate on a time-based rental model, where you book the studio for a set period. During your session, you have full access to the equipment and can experiment with different poses, angles, and setups. 

After the session, digital copies of your images are provided, sometimes with options for basic editing or downloadable RAW files, depending on the studio. This model provides a mix of professional-quality tools and personal control that traditional studios or freelance photographers may not offer.

Who Should Consider a Self-Shoot Studio

Self-shoot studios can be a great option for a wide range of users. 

If you are a content creator producing regular photos for social media, these studios allow you to maintain a consistent visual style without the cost of hiring a photographer for every shoot. 

Small business owners or e-commerce sellers benefit from having access to professional lighting and backgrounds to showcase products clearly and attractively. 

Individuals who want high-quality portraits, family photos, or creative personal projects can experiment with poses and camera angles without the pressure of a professional photographer directing every shot.

For photographers looking to practice or test new techniques, self-shoot studios provide a controlled environment where you can experiment with lighting setups, camera angles, and composition. 

You can explore portrait, product, or fashion photography in a studio setting at a lower cost, gaining hands-on experience with professional equipment.

Advantages of Self-Shoot Studios

One of the main advantages is flexibility. You set the pace, choose the poses, and control the creative process. Unlike traditional studio sessions, you do not have to coordinate with another person, which can save time and allow for experimentation.

Another advantage is cost efficiency. Renting a self-shoot studio is often cheaper than hiring a photographer for multiple hours or booking a traditional studio with full staff support. For individuals or small businesses who require regular photos, this can be a more sustainable solution.

Self-shoot studios also allow for creative freedom. You can try unconventional angles, experiment with lighting techniques, or combine multiple setups in one session. Many studios provide multiple backdrop options and props, which give you the tools to create varied visuals without additional costs.

When a Self-Shoot Studio May Not Be Right for You

While self-shoot studios have many benefits, they are not always the ideal solution. If you are looking for highly specialized photography, such as complex product shoots, high-fashion editorials, or intricate compositing work, professional photographers provide experience, knowledge, and skills that go beyond what a self-shoot environment can offer.

If you are unfamiliar with camera operation, lighting setups, or posing techniques, you may feel limited in what you can achieve. Some studios provide tutorials or staff assistance, but much of the work requires a willingness to experiment and learn. In these cases, hiring a professional photographer may save time and provide higher-quality results, especially for critical projects like advertising campaigns or client-facing content.

Another consideration is time management. In a self-shoot studio, you are responsible for setting up, adjusting lighting, arranging props, and capturing the images. If you are under a tight schedule, this responsibility may add pressure and reduce efficiency compared to working with an experienced team.

Cost Considerations

Pricing for self-shoot studios varies widely depending on location, equipment quality, and duration of rental. Some studios charge hourly rates starting from a modest fee, while others offer packages that include additional props, multiple backdrops, and basic editing. For frequent users, many studios provide membership or subscription models that lower per-session costs.

It is important to consider not just the base rental cost but also any extras you may need, such as additional lighting, props, or post-processing services. Evaluating your budget against your photography goals can help determine whether a self-shoot studio is a cost-effective option.

Tips for Maximizing Your Session

To make the most of a self-shoot session, planning ahead is key. Decide on your shooting goals before entering the studio, including the type of photos you want, the outfits or props you will use, and the specific lighting setups you intend to try.

Familiarize yourself with the equipment if possible, either through tutorials provided by the studio or online guides. Experiment with camera settings in advance to avoid losing valuable time during your session.

Bring your own accessories if needed, such as reflectors, portable lights, or props to achieve unique effects. Using a tripod or remote trigger can also help you capture steady shots and experiment with poses that are otherwise difficult to frame alone.

Finally, allocate time for post-session editing. While self-shoot studios often provide basic editing, adjusting color balance, cropping, and retouching can significantly enhance your final images. Planning for editing ensures you get professional-quality results even without a photographer on-site.

Self-Shoot Studios and the Future of Photography

Self-shoot studios reflect a larger trend in photography where accessibility, control, and personalization are highly valued. These spaces allow users to engage with the creative process directly, reducing reliance on third-party professionals while still benefiting from high-quality equipment and studio settings.

For content creators, small business owners, and hobbyists, self-shoot studios offer a practical solution that balances affordability, flexibility, and creative freedom. They also democratize access to professional tools, enabling more people to experiment and develop skills that were once limited to studio professionals.

By understanding your goals, evaluating your comfort with photography equipment, and considering your available time and budget, you can decide if a self-shoot studio is the right solution for you. 

With careful planning, preparation, and a willingness to experiment, you can take full advantage of what self-shoot studios have to offer, producing images that reflect your vision and expanding your skills as a photographer.

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Pets often become deeply attached to their routines and the people they live with, which is why even small changes can trigger noticeable reactions. Many pet parents say their animals seem to sense when something unusual is about to happen, especially when suitcases come out or travel plans are discussed. A recent video captures one such moment, showing a cat’s surprisingly expressive response after her owner talks to her about an upcoming trip.

Cat appears displeased after listening to owner’s travel plans

A video shared on Instagram by the account @pennythegingercat has amused viewers online after documenting a ginger cat’s dramatic reaction to news she clearly did not appreciate. In the clip, Penny’s owner casually tells her that she and her partner will be going away for the weekend. The announcement immediately sparks a response from the feline, who begins chirping and meowing in what many viewers interpreted as a protest.

As the conversation continues, Penny’s mom explains that they are traveling to Taipei for New Year’s celebrations. Text added on screen humorously presents the cat’s supposed point of view, reading, “Am I invited.” The owner then clarifies that Penny will not be joining them and will instead stay home with her cat sibling, Felix, along with a catsitter.

Penny’s reactions grow more animated as the explanation goes on. Her chirps become louder while her facial expression appears increasingly displeased. Trying to reassure her pet, her mom reminds the feline that she usually has fun with the catsitter, who sends regular photo updates of their time together. Another meow follows, and the video playfully “translates” it with the word “Photoshop,” suggesting the evidence hasn’t convinced Penny.

The video ends with the owner affectionately calling Penny by a string of nicknames, including “Pennifer,” “Pennificet,” “Penelope,” and “Pennini,” as the cat continues vocalizing her apparent objections.

Viewers took to the comments section with playful interpretations of Penny’s behavior. One user wrote that the cat “progressively getting more annoyed with the conversation” was the funniest part. Another joked that Penny seemed to be questioning why her owners needed to go to Taipei at all when they could celebrate at home. A third commenter sided firmly with the feline, quipping that it wasn’t the cat who was lying, it was the catsitter.

February 18, 2026
Guest Contributor

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog!

My family and I were preparing to leave on vacation with our rescue dog, Kylie. We were heading to a dog-friendly campground for a week and were so excited, knowing she would have the best time swimming in the dog pool and hiking the trails with us.

Sam Martineau

While we were out picking up some last-minute items, Kylie suffered a heart attack and passed away. We were completely devastated. We couldn’t bear to stay in the house without her, surrounded by reminders of what we had just lost. So we decided to leave for our vacation a day early, planning to spend the extra night wherever we could find accommodations. It felt easier than facing our home without her.

My grief was so profound that I truly believed I would never feel okay again. The first day at the campground without Kylie was unbearable. Everywhere we looked were families enjoying the amenities with their dogs, and the emptiness we felt was overwhelming.

On the second day, we decided to visit a local animal shelter. We shared our story with the staff, and they invited us to look around and meet the dogs.

My daughter spotted a black female pit bull who immediately came to the front of her kennel and sat down, her tail wagging. We asked to take her to the meeting yard, a fenced area where dogs can interact with potential adopters.

We felt an instant connection. She stayed close to us, soaking up every hug and every gentle touch. The shelter workers were amazed. They told us this dog was usually very shy and nervous around strangers.

She was only about ten months old and was already in the shelter for the second time. The vet believed she had been pregnant at some point in her short life.

We knew we couldn’t go home without her.

The shelter staff were incredible and helped us complete everything needed to finalize the adoption before our vacation ended.

That following Saturday, we left with our new family member, once again a family of four.

Story submitted by Sam Martineau

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!

Guest Contributor

This mom is confused about who the bigger baby is: the cat or the newborn. This is because the cat takes over the newborn’s seat without a hint of hesitation. The video clip shows the feline settling in comfortably, marking its territory. It’s as if he had already claimed the spot long before the baby arrived, much to the amusement of the mom.

Cat ignores owner’s repeated requests to vacate the newborn baby’s seat

This cat can’t be bothered by his mom’s repeated requests to vacate the newborn baby’s seat. All he wants is to indulge in a cozy nap in his safe spot, which was actually meant for the baby. @_lifeoflenny shared the amusing video clip on Instagram. It shows a cute little cat sitting comfortably in a baby’s seat on the bed. As he tucks himself in, enjoying his newfound safe spot, his mom arrives.

Seeing his mom, he lifts his head as if asking, “You bought this for me, right?” However, the lady gently asks the cat if he could leave the spot so she can set the baby down. The cat doesn’t respond, making it clear he won’t budge.

The mom reassures him that she knows he is a baby in his own way, too. Still, she needs to borrow the seat for the newborn. The cat, however, doesn’t budge. He has made up his mind to use the same safe spot for his nap.

Instead of following his mom’s requests, he looks away, resting his head on his paws. The lady asks the feline, “Ohoo, you don’t care?” followed by, “Are you that unbothered?” But the cat still doesn’t leave the seat, making it clear he only cares about his newfound spot.

Viewers loved the cat’s fun antics and stubborn behavior, with many joking that the mom should have bought two seats for her two “babies.”