Tips for photographing dogs

I’ve pulled together a few tips for photographing dogs

IMG_0576Clean and tidy – Get your dog looking their best. Clean their eyes, and brush their coat and tail.

Use natural light – If possible always use natural light. Avoid flash, as this can cause red-eye, but could also frighten your dog. Instead try to go outside or, if it is not possible, find a place with great available light; for example a room with big windows, a deck or terrace with a diffused roof covering or shoot outside when the sun is behind a cloud.

Keep their eyes clear and sharp – Having sharp eyes is important as they say, “Eyes are the window to the Soul” and pets eye can be very expressive. So make sure to focus on your pet’s eyes, as this is the place where the human eye goes to first.

Go to them – It is very important that you pet feels comfortable and at ease, so always go to them. Most important is to get down to their level; sit on the floor or lie on your belly and remember to shoot from their eye level or below, and take photos from different angles for more interesting shots.

Camera lens – if you have one, then put on that long lens and fill the frame with your pet’s face and fur, close up shots often make a beautiful animal portrait.

Alert posture – An easy trick is to let the play quietly and, once you have everything ready, let someone call for them, make silly noises, whistle, or squeak or wave their favourite toy. This will surprise them and catch their attention and you will have a few seconds to capture him in a nice and alert posture

Make your dog smile – This little trick works every time. Take your dog for a quick run around the garden or block, or throw a toy around the living room to get him active. An active dog is a happy dog and will likely flash you a huge cute, tongue-hangy smile after settling down. Aim and shoot! You can also use their favourite treats! Dogs will almost always look right at the treat.

Be patient – Pet photography requires a lot of patience. No matter how excited your dog is, if you are patient enough, they will relax giving you the opportunity to get a those shots. Take lots of shots.

Keeping your dog happy to be photographed:

  • Mix play with photos, so that the photo session isn’t non-stop. Let them have a break.
  • Only do things with them that they love and in locations they are comfortable in.
  • Point and shoots cameras can do wonders! Don’t think you need a fancy camera.
  • Remember to experiment!
  • Let your dog get used to the camera gradually.
  • Take your time and enjoy the session.