How to Take Pictures of Toy Poodles

Toy poodles are wonderful pets, and as with any other member of your family, you will want to take pictures of yours that you can show off to family and friends. Pet photographers are the first choice for many dog lovers, but you yourself can take a professional-quality photograph of your toy poodle that will look as though you spent a fortune at a studio--but for a fraction of the cost.

Things You'll Need

• Digital camera
• Chair
• Tennis balls
• Pet toys
• Blankets
• Leash
• Dog collar
• Dog treats
• Squeakers
• Tripod (optional)

Instructions

1. Make sure the location in which you will be photographing your toy poodle is free of distractions, including cooking aromas and other smells, other animals, small children and visitors.

2. Place your toy poodle in front of a background, like a wall or large blanket. Have an assistant nearby to set up props that you would like to use in the shot. The assistant will also ensure that the toy poodle stays focused on the props by having treats and a squeaky toy in hand.

3. Place a dog toy and squeaker in your own hand so you can get the toy poodle's attention while you are photographing. Have your assistant reward the pet with a dog treat each time a pose is completed. Make sure your flash is on in the house if the room is dark.

4. Begin to take different snapshots of your pet. Use props, like the pet's favorite blanket and toys. Take a standard head shot with the toy poodle facing toward the camera and looking away from the lens. Keep a squeaky toy in front of your face and near the camera. Squeak the toy when you want to get the dog's attention.

5. Take a snapshot of your toy poodle in his favorite chair. Vary the positions by having your pet rest his head on the arm of the chair, or take a "head-on" picture of your pet with his front legs crossed. Reward your poodle with a treat and recognition.

6. Take a snapshot of the toy poodle in a classic position by having her tilt her head slightly sideways while her body remains forward. Have your assistant move to the side of the pet, but closer to the camera. Tempt and reward the toy poodle with treats along the way until you are satisfied with the pose. Snap the picture.

7. Position the toy poodle so that his front paws are crossed. Get a full-body shot of the pet. Reward with a treat and positive canine recognition, such as "Good job!"

8. Venture outdoors to take more photographs. Make sure you have your toy poodle on a leash and that her collar is on. Have your assistant position the toy poodle near a tree, a flower bed, a pond or lake, or a rock garden, or in the bed of a wheat field. Have the dog switch positions, from sitting up to lying down. Continue to reward your "model" with treats and praise.

Tips & Warnings

• Use your own personal training techniques, including rewards you have given in the past, to recognize your toy poodle for good behavior.

• Make sure your toy poodle has gone to the bathroom, eaten and taken a nap before you take any pictures.

• If snapping pictures outdoors, do your best to minimize distractions, like animals or small children.

• Be creative and use personal items in the photographs.

• Be patient with your pet. Expect to take several shots before finding the right one.

• Take a break if your toy poodle gets tired while posing.

• Keep your spirits and your attitude up. Your pet will sense this, and it will keep his spirits up, too.

• Do not yell at your toy poodle or try to force it to sit for pictures; doing so will cause added stress for both you and the dog.

Resources

• Dog Pictures