Pet Photography Tip – by Myrtle Beach Photography

I decided to write about pets because it seems that every time I open my Facebook, there are hundreds of photos of friends pictures of their pets.  Taking pictures of your 4 legged family members is not always easy. Pets, unlike humans, do not understand what we are trying to do and won’t just pose for the camera! Here are some tips that will help you help you get the most of your pet photography:

1. Take the Images Where Your Pet Feels Most Comfortable

Go to your pet in his/her natural environment.  It is very important that you pet feels comfortable and at ease, so instead of forcing him to come to you go to him. The best tip is to get down to his level.  Show us the way they see world! Sit on the floor or lie on your belly and remember to shoot from your pets eye level.

2. Use Natural Light

Try to avoid using a flash.  A flash can sometimes frighten the animal so a flash can end you session before it ever begins. In addition, flash causes red eye which we have all encountered.  Instead try to go outside or, if it is not possible, in a room well lit by a large window.

3. Show Their Character

We all know that whether we are taking pictures of our children or our pets, the most valued pictures are the ones that show them as they are.  Try and catch them doing the things they most enjoy.  If your dog, cat, bird etc. likes to play, photograph them playing or sleeping.  Tell their story through photography.

4. Focus On The Eyes

Having sharp eyes is important in any kind of portraits photography. 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 and keep the tack sharp

5. Fill The Frame

Fill the frame with your pet’s face and fur, close up shots often make beautiful  portrait.

6. Be Patient

Patience, Patience, Patience.  Talk lots and lots of shots.  Pet photography requires a lot of patience.   No matter how excited your furry friend is, if you are patient enough, he will end up by relaxing and you will have the opportunity to get that shot.

7. The Element of Surprise

Keeping your pet still will be the most difficult task.   Here is a great trick.  Let your pet play or sleep and once you have everything ready, have someone call for him or whistle. This will surprise your pet and catch his attention and you will have a few seconds to that perfect shot.

9. Experiment

Use different angles and compositions. Shoot a lot you will have time to worry about the results later.

10. Have Fun With The Shoot

Don’t stress because your pet will pick up on the tension.  If you have fun, they will have fun.  Remember, lots and lots of shots.