subject: Tips For Taking Pet Pictures [print this page] Getting great pictures of pets is such a tricky proposition that there are many photo studios that focus on only this niche (and make quite a profit in the process). Sometimes it can feel like getting a good picture of your pet is completely dependent upon luck, however that's not necessarily true. Before you give up, let's talk about a few ways that you can guarantee pictures of your pet will turn out great.
Catch it All
Unfortunately, our pets are only with us for a limited period of time. This is a perfect example of why it's important to take pictures of your pets while they're in the prime of their life. If your dog loves to play frisbee or play catch, then snap a picture of him while he or she is playing. If your cat shreds the toilet paper in the bathroom, take a quick picture before you clean up the paper aftermath - our fondest memories of pets are often the things they did wrong. Never forget that if a picture is worth a thousand words, each photo you take should essentially be a short story.
Spy on Them
Although it can be challenging to sneak up on your pet, if you can do it often it leads to some great pictures. Sometimes just taking pictures of your pet at home being themselves can turn into some of your best shots of them. Plus, just getting your cat or dog sleeping won't do justice when it comes to telling their story.
Get Their Attention
If you want a good photo of your pet, you'd better be ready to show them why paying attention is in their best interest. Make sure you come equipped with lots of treats otherwise they'll likely lose interest really fast. Pet treats always come in handy to get your pets attention as well as rewarding them for a job well done.
Get Your Pets Perspective
One of the major missteps many photographers make when shooting their pets is forgetting to get down to the animal's perspective. If you kneel or lay down on the ground, you'll get the best angle of your pet and will make your photo really look nice in a picture frame. The perspective of your picture is also a lot of fun to change - try getting a ground-level view of your small animal and watch as they become gigantic in the photograph.
Be Patient
Above all things, patience is key in shooting pets. As mentioned earlier, your pet doesn't understand what you're trying to do so if you stay happy and relaxed your pet will notice the difference. Pets can sense your emotional state immediately, so if you start getting frustrated they will too. If you start getting frustrated, simply take a break and take your pictures later.
Pets are like members of our families so it's important to have a record of them for keeping their memory alive. If you can have fun and be patient while taking pictures of your pets, you'll be amazed at the difference it makes.
