The holidays are rushing toward us and one of the things I love most, from November into the New Year, is fun pet photos.
This week, we’re wrapping up the best tips for great pics, postcards and e-cards, just for you.
As with every great plan, it’s helpful to begin with the end in mind. Decide what kind of photo you want by gathering inspiration from hotspots like Pinterest and Google images.
- Do you want something formal or goofy?
- Staged, casual or action shot?
- What kind of theme are you going for?
- How does your pet feel about costumes and props?
- Do you have a great background (examples: a cozy fireplace or decorated front door)?
In order to get the right ‘expression’, it’s important to choose a set-up that is comfortable for your fur friend. Stress and discomfort will make the photo shoot a drag for everybody and take the fun out of your pet’s face.
I love costumes on pets who are comfortable with them, but I tend to choose uncomplicated shots for my guy, Cagney. His mug is all the cute we really need, and he tends to be fearful of things on, or over, his head, so I need to be careful.
This is one of my favorites.
To spruce things up, I use Canva, a wonderful resource! I also use Paperless Post for both electronic and printed photo cards.
Once you decide on an indoor, or outdoor location, eliminate distractions as much as possible so that your pet is looking at you and the camera instead of at the toys scattered about, or at the bike rolling by on the street.
If you are not a camera buff, don’t worry, the cameras in your pocket is good enough!
Before you begin a photo shoot, make sure your pet is comfortable with the equipment. Practice putting your camera in front of, or below your pet and offer a treat when you see curiosity and comfort.
(Remember the #1 rule of canine behaviorism: Do not try to convince your pooch to relax with treats. Instead, wait until you see the behavior you want and THEN offer the reward.)
Take pictures at random times to get everyone used to the shutter sounds, and bring out the props and costumes so that they become just another part of the scenery.
Pretty soon, the camera and such will represent fun!
Lighting is one of the most important parts of your set-up.
- Avoid redeye and panic by skipping the flash
- Natural light is best, especially next to a window for lovely ‘side-light’
- Try for the ‘golden hours’ first thing in the morning and right before dusk
- Backdrops can be simple, to make your pet the hero of the shot
Though I can’t really recommend it, I once got creative by shining a strong desk lamp through a thin nightgown as a soft filter for a nice glow. Just remember that lights are hot!
Attention-getters make for excellent expressions.
- Use extra high-value (think stinky) treats for a riveted gaze
- But, keep food out of sight until you are ready to take the shot, or posing won’t happen
- Use noises to keep attention, like squeakers or funny sounds
- Get up close, and down to your pet’s eye level, or below, for the cutest composition
For ball-loving dogs, attaching a tennis ball to your camera is a genius way to get, and keep, attention for studio shots or selfies. Here is a DIY version and a commercial version.
Make photo sessions short to ward off boredom and frustration. When you have fun, you’ll get results like this one!
