header

How to Photograph Your Pet

TIPS + TRICKS FROM THE EXPERTS

Article by Hayley Hyer

Photography by Stock Images

I think about 90% of my camera roll is made up of pictures of my pets! But that doesn't mean they are all good photos. It's hard to capture those perfect moments when they are doing the cutest things! Here are some tips from photography experts for getting your furry friend's good side.

Digital Photography School

Written by Antoine Khater

Pets fill very quickly their place in our hearts and families and we enjoy having their pictures framed on our desk or wall! However taking pictures of your best friend 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 9 tips that will help you help you get the most of your photo session.

  1. Use Natural Light
  2. Keep the Eyes Sharp
  3. Go to Them
  4. Give Value to their Character
  5. Go Macro
  6. Surprise Them
  7. Schedule your Session
  8. Be Patient
  9. Experiment

READ MORE: 9 Pet Photography Tips

Exposure Guide

Written by Attila Kun

Recommended Settings

If you are capturing your pet in motion then use a fast shutter speed – don’t be afraid to push it up to 1/3200s if necessary. If you pet is still or relaxing then try to avoid using flash as animals tend to dislike it. Open the aperture to let more light in instead. This also keeps the background blurred and works for artistic shots.

Recommended Equipment

A telephoto lens is useful if you need to capture your pet from far away, especially one with I.S. (image stabilization).

A standard lens, such as a 50mm f/1.8 or f/2.8 is also useful because it can take good portraits and can work quickly in low light conditions without needing a flash.

Conclusion

Pets can provide a range of interesting photographs from cute to dramatic.

Use toys and treats to reward them if they are behaving well and let them leave if they are bored of having their photograph taken. Feeding an animal first is always a good idea if shooting portraits as it leaves them relaxed. If your pet is going outside make sure you have another person helping in case they break free.

Take many shots, and among them could be that perfect photo.

READ MORE: Pet Photography Tips

Creative Live

Written by Hillary Grigonis

As a portrait photographer (and mom to one dog, one cat and three fish), the toughest family photo shoots I’ve shot involve both a dog and a toddler in the same photo because getting both to sit still at the same exact time borders on impossible. But after having both (toddler and furry friends) of my own, I’ve found a few different ways to make those shots happen. Here are a few pet photography tips to capture more fur and less blur.

  1. Use treats and toys.
  2. Be patient.
  3. Know the pet.
  4. Find a window — or just walk outside.
  5. Use a fast shutter speed, continuous focus, and burst mode.
  6. Shoot from their eye level, not your own.
  7. Work in play and interaction.

READ MORE: Sit, Stay, Shoot: 7 Pet Photography Tips For Better Shots of Four-Legged Family


Related Businesses

Guardian Concierge Services

Photography

Guardian Concierge Services

Memphis, TN

Guardian is a full-service valet, transportation, and event planning firm that provides the highest level of service to...

Arica Lipp Photography

Photography

Arica Lipp Photography

Billings, MT

Multi award winning portrait artist and international photography educator, Arica Lipp serves the Billings community and...

See More

Related Articles