Capture the Perfect Pet Portraits: A Guide to Stunning Pet Photography

Most of us consider our pets to be a member of our family, so it’s only natural to want to capture those perfect moments we share with them to remember always. A picture is worth a thousand words, but some pictures are worth more than others. Learn what you need to do to capture pictures of your pet that do those precious moments justice.

Know Your Subject

Knowing your subject is where you have the advantage over anyone else. You know your pet’s personality, their quirks, and what really gets them going. You can use this knowledge to get some really great images.

Use your pet’s personality to your advantage. Try to capture him or her in a natural state. Action shots of energetic pets are going to be most natural, while your couch potato cat might look positively angelic curled up in the sun.

If you have a more anxious pet, try to give some thought to your surroundings. An unfamiliar place may not be the best location to get good photographs. Most pets also respond best if they have some time to get used to the camera rather than having it suddenly shoved in their face.

Know Your Tools

No matter if you are using your iPhone, a point and shoot, or a fancy DSLR, knowing your camera’s capabilities (as well as its strengths and weaknesses) can really help when taking pictures of your pet.

While most modern cameras are easy to use without much effort, learning a little bit about your tools, and photography in general, can help you to get just the look you want. For example, being able to adjust your shutter speed to a moving pet or adjust it to a darker room can really make a huge difference.

Likewise, you may want to invest in learning to use photo editing software. While not essential, sometimes a little tweaking can really make a photo stand out. There are multiple options out there ranging in price and ease of use.

Tricks of the Trade for Getting Great Pictures of Your Pet

No matter the pet, or your level of experience, there are certainly some tricks and tips that can make the difference between a good photo and a great one. When taking pictures of your pet, be sure to:

• Take a ton of pictures. Professional photographers often take dozens of shots at a time in order to capture that picture perfect moment.
• Avoid the flash. Try to shoot your pet in natural sunlight, especially in the morning or early evening.
• If you need a flash, use one that is not attached to the camera to achieve a more natural picture.
• Don’t be afraid to move around. Take pictures of your pet from unique angles. Get down on the ground at his or her level.
• Move in for the close up! Taking pictures near your pet can really help capture your pet’s personality.
• Try to find a perfect background. Simple, uncluttered backgrounds make for the best pictures.
• Mix it up. Come in close and then move out. Try centering your pet in the frame and then move him or her off to one side. Take full body shots as wells as closer ones.
• Take some candid photos. Posed pictures are cute, but most often the spontaneous ones are the best.

Do you have any spectacular photos of your furry friend? Be sure to share them with us on our Facebook page. Animal Skin and Allergy Clinic loves to see all of our patients in their best light.