8 tips for great pet photographs | southern ontario pet photographer

I was honored to write a guest column for the inaugural newsletter for Lifestyle Pet Care, a great local pet services business run by my friend Linda. Not only is Linda a huge animal lover (I photographed her rescue dog Nikki and cats Toby and Bear), but she also volunteers as a dog walker at the Burlington Humane Society. I was asked to share my tips for taking great pet photographs, which I am now posting for everyone to read. The article is below — I hope it inspires you to get your camera out and photograph your four-leggers!

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Pets are beloved family members and with their cute faces, just plain fun to photograph. Unlike humans, however, pets don’t understand that you’re trying to take their picture, and don’t always take direction very well. Here are a few easy tips to help you get the best photographs of your pet — regardless of what kind of camera you have. Just remember: be patient and have fun!

Get comfortable

To get natural, candid images, photograph your pet where they feel comfortable and relaxed, whether it’s your yard or a favourite spot in your house. Make sure you choose a time of day when your pet is cooperative — right before dinner or a walk can prove difficult!

Use bribery

Have a few of your dog’s favourite treats in hand or use your cat’s favourite toy to get their attention. Surprising your pet with a noise  — squeaky toys work great — can often result in a cute head tilt.

Focus on the eyes

The eyes are the most expressive part of your pet, so when in doubt, focus on those soulful beauties and try to get them tack sharp.

Get low

Photograph your pet from their level to create images with a connection.

Use natural light

Avoid dark rooms and other low-light situations. Take your pet outside or place them by a window.

 

Show your pet’s character

You know your pet better than anyone, so photograph Fido or Fluffy so their personality really shines. If you have a dog that loves to chase his tail, capture that! If you have a cat that likes to sleep upside-down, be ready with your camera to photograph it.

 

Contain them

If you have an active pet — especially a rambunctious puppy or playful kitten — try containing them. Put them in a box or laundry basket, anything that will keep them in one place long enough to grab a shot.

Increase your shutter speed

Dogs and cats are always on the move. To get them in action and prevent blurry photos increase the shutter speed on your DSLR camera. If you are using a point-and-shoot, use the “action” setting.

If you have any photography-related questions, please ask away in the comment section!

Wags,
Stacey