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TAKING GREAT PICTURES OF YOUR DOG
QUICK LINKS |
by Lisa Mullinax, CPDT
 1. Take pictures in natural light without flash whenever possible, to avoid the unnatural flash-eye. A soft, filtered indoor light works great. This photo of Cooper was taken inside, with the blinds partially open, letting in just enough light. 2. Avoid bright, direct sunlight. The best time to take pictures is on an overcast day, early morning or in the late afternoon when light is soft and warm. The worst time is late morning or mid-afternoon.3. Get down to your dog's level. If you kneel or even lay down, you can get some great shots.
4. Use treats/toys to get your dog's attention. Holding a treat just below the camera lens can get your dog's focus where you want it. 5. If trying to pose multiple dogs, pose the dog with the most reliable stay first, then position the others. Sometimes, more natural shots like this look nicer than "posed" photos. 5a. Black dogs are tough to photograph. Again, avoid that flash and choose natural light. Point your camera at the darkest part of the dog when setting the autofocus, this allows the camera to adjust so you get a nice defined shot. 6. Try to capture your dog during their most natural moods and activities. "Down" times such as before/after naps, after playing, etc., are a great time to get up close shots.  7. Choose your background carefully. Watch out for trees and other objects behind the dog that may appear to come out of the top of the head in a photo. You can also use some backgrounds as cool patterns that add to the photo. This photo was taken on a regular wood deck. 8. Some dogs are very nervous of that big eye (the lens) staring right at them and will look away, a sign of discomfort, not disobedience. The more frustrated you get, the more your dog will avoid looking at the camera. Make photo sessions good experience! Let the dog check out the camera and use tasty treats to reward them. They will soon learn that the camera is not scary, it's the source of cookies! 9. Up-close shots can be fun. Again, make sure the flash is off and focus on the eyes or nose for a unique perspective. It can also be fun to try holding the camera at different angles just to see what you get. Sometimes the shot that seems like a loss ends up being your favorite, like this picture of Loki's tongue, which is always hanging out! 10. Be patient! It may require five to ten takes just to get that one great picture (this is where digital cameras have the advantage over film)! So keep shooting!Finally, photo editing software can be fun and very useful, but don't go overboard with the special effects. You will find your favorite shots are those that capture your dog's true personality, not those that make your dog look radioactive. ------------------------------------- All photos by Lisa Mullinax, CPDT. If you are interested in getting professional photos of your dog, visit Candid Canines. |
This shot was taken with the camera set on the ground, which captures the Boxer's expressive jowels and mouth. 
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