How to Take Fetching Pictures of Your Dog

Grooooaaaannnnnn.... All right, I apologize for the pun. Seriously, though, wouldn't you like to take pictures of your beloved pet that were nice enough to frame? With these few tips, you should be able to capture the personality of your pet and be able to share it with others proudly.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Digital camera, a point and shoot will work fine.
• Props, toys, blankets to drape or an interesting location.
• Patience and a sense of humor.
• Special treats such as cheese, chicken or roast beef.

1. In most cases, you will want to groom your pet nicely before taking photos. The exceptions would be when you are taking pictures of an activity like agility or running in the woods. But even then, you should be sure the coat is not matted and nails are trimmed, eye stains have been cleaned etc.

2. 
   A draped box and backdrop, adding a couple of props would add interest to this scene.

   If you would like a posed photograph, use sturdy boxes, tables or chairs. Draping a blanket or fabric over the perch will hide the item and give you a studio look. The backdrop can be a curtain, bare wall or greenery. Just be sure the background is not going to attract attention away from your subject. Using a perch also helps to keep your pet in a controlled area for your shot. Place interesting props next to or in front of the perch. A large piece of driftwood, Cowboy hat and boots or seasonal plants are just a few ideas.

3. Unless you are very used to the proper settings for your lighting, use the automatic setting on your camera for best results. If a flash is going to be necessary, try to have indirect light behind the pet to minimize shadows.

4. Start taking several shots and take a look to see if you are liking the set up. Move in as close as you can to focus in on your pet. You can always crop out background, but stay close enough to sharpen your focus on the animal. All the while keep it interesting for your pet by playing and giving treats. Funny noises will perk up their ears and give them a pleasant face. Hold a toy or treat where you want your pet to look while taking the picture. It does help to have an assistant although you can do this by yourself. The key is to be patient.

5. If your pet begins to show signs of boredom or impatience. Stop. Have another photo session the next day. Don't work for more than half an hour. Your pet will begin to see that this posing as play and treat time if you keep your patience and humor intact. They will begin to get into the positions you have been attempting because they want the treats.

6. 
   This little dog was looking for butterflies when I captured this shot.

   Try a natural setting where you pet is enjoying an activity and just shoot several photos while they are occupied. These candid shots can catch some very special memories that you will treasure forever. Even with distracting backgrounds, you can crop these photos closely or with just enough of the surrounding scenery for context and create a portrait from a snapshot.

Tips & Warnings

• A tripod can be of help in some situations.
• Some dogs may be self conscious in front of the camera, just keep practicing, they eventually get used to the idea.
• Your pet will hate the camera if you lose patience. There is always another day. By starting now to get the animal used to it, when you are pressed for time getting that perfect photo for your Holiday card comes along, you will both be seasoned.

Resources

• Kitty A Smith Photogrpahy