September 12, 2010 | Posted in Blog, Photography, Tutorials

Tips For Better Pet Photography

The number of people who have pets increase year after year. I became one of them. Many of us pet owners like to take photos of our beloved pets. I love to take photos of my dog “Rini”. I enjoy capturing her with my camera while she sleep or plays. I have taken ton of photos of her while I dabbling in photography as a hobby. Besides her, I also like take photos of other dogs I met.

However taking pictures of dogs is not always easy. It’s quite a challenge because unlike humans, pets usually can’t understand what we ask them to do. So I use these 5 simple tips that may help you get the most of your beloved pet. Also, be sure to also check out NY Bowtique, my cousin’s handcraft dog bows online store too.

1- Lighting
If possible use natural light when taking photo of them. Avoid flash if you can it cause red-eye in the photo.

2- Positioning
Let your pet feel comfortable and at ease. Don’t have them looking up at you or make them come to you. Try get down low on their level and see the world from their point of view.

3- Character
I know my dog more then anyone else so that makes it easier for me to convey her character. Try to take a photo of your pet in action performing his or her favorite thing. For me, it’s Rini’s cute little stare. Try this and you will capture a cute unforgettable snapshot.

4- The eyes
“Eyes are the window to the soul” and trust me their eyes are very expressive. So make sure you zoom in on their facial expression and keep the eyes sharp.

5- Composition
Try to shoot at different angles and background. From body shots to nice backgrounds. Ask your self if the background is too cluttered or not? How much of depth of field do you want from your pet and the background and then go out and shoot these photos.

(I shot Rini sitting sleeping on the sofa)

(I shot my dog Rini sitting outside the park looking at my mom)

(I shot my dog Rini sitting outside the park)

(Rini meeting other dog – shot by me)

(I shot this shiba outside the ice cream store in Boston)

(I shot this when I was in Montreal, Left)

Kissy wearing NY Bowtique dog bows. Photo provide by NY Bowtique, very beautiful hand crafted Dog Bows made by my cousin. Please check them out!

Evie & Kissy wearing NY Bowtique dog bows. Photo provide by NY Bowtique, be sure to check these beautiful blue dog bows out. They’ll look as cute as them in the picture.

Do you have a favorite photo of your pet? Let me know and I’ll love to see them.