How to Take the Best Pictures of Your Dog
Our dogs make the most adorable faces and do the cutest things, but what’s the best way to capture it? Here are a few tricks to getting better shots of your perfect pooch.
Get Him Used to the Camera
The flash of a camera can unnerve dogs, same for the click sound of a film camera. If your dog tends to notice these sights and sounds, start by taking pictures of the surroundings. This will help your dog recognize the flash and click as a common and natural sound that won’t grab his attention.
Time It Right
If you want action shots of your dog, take your pictures before your dog is most active in the day. Wait until later for better photos with a more calm and tranquil look and feel when your dog is more tired.
Take a Lot of Pictures
This tip goes past dog or animal photo sessions. The more pictures you take, the more options you have and the more likely you are to get a clear and perfect photo.
No Flash
Turning off the flash holds less distractions for your pup. If shooting outside, the best photos come in the mornings or evenings, on slight overcast days, or in the shade of a sunny day. When you’re taking pictures inside, open blinds and curtains to light up the room. If you have an off-camera flash, swivel it upward so the light bounces off the ceiling.
Get on His Level
Get on the floor with your dog for an eye-to-eye experience. This will give a more personal view of your dog and will stand out from the pictures from above like other people generally have.
Check Your Background
Simple backgrounds help your dog stand out and draw the eye immediately to him. Be sure the background contrasts in color to your dog. Check for tree branches that may look like they’re growing out of your dog’s head too!
Grab a Friend
If you’re not looking for a head-on shot, a friend can squeak a toy or hold some treats to get your dog’s attention and focus. If your dog gets really excited over these, it may be best to avoid this one.
Get Creative
Try different angles and distances from your dog. Head on, 45-degree angles, full body shots, you never know which one will end up being your favorite.
When photographing pets, you never know just what might work. See what works best for your dog and get those pictures that showcase your dog’s best side and cute personality.