How’s your phone camera? Most modern cameras are extremely forgiving and flattering. I’m saying this as someone who suddenly has a famous pet, and I’ve monetized them to the point of having a calendar and merch. I’m not a photographer but a few basic articles and tips got me pretty far, pretty fast.

Also the animals are used to you. They may not want to act cute around a stranger (or even be in the same room, lol). Put the cat in some nice natural window light, hold a treat right above the lens out of frame, and start calling the cat so they look up, and snap away indiscriminately. Portrait mode on my iPhone gives me stunning results. Then, ALWAYS edit your photos. Use your simple camera software, always use the general optimizing button first, and then almost every photo in the world can use to be lightened, and sharpened. Then play with other settings like lighting style (natural vs studio), or saturation, if you want.

You’ll get good at it fast, and learn quick. Oops dirty laundry basket behind them? Never again! This is the window they look best in front of, this is how I get them to look, etc. Then use an online printing service to get the prints you want.

Good luck OP!