How to Take Pictures of Your Pets

How to Take Pictures of Your Pets

Pets hold a special place in our hearts as valued members of the family. Capturing photos of your pets can be a fun bonding experience for everyone involved. To get the perfect shot of your pet, it will take some planning, time, and patience. Here are some of the best tips and tricks for taking pictures of your pets.

Plan Your Shots

Before you unleash your inner photographer, think about some of the shots you might want of your pet. Are you looking for something more formal and posed, or trying to capture your pet’s lifestyle and showcase their personality?

Another thing to consider when planning your shots is what you’ll be using them for. If you’re thinking of doing a photo book, custom art (click to see where to buy), or holiday ornament, you may not need to worry as much about resolution and clarity. If you want to expand the photo and put it on display, you’ll need to pay attention to the quality of the final image.

Get on Their Level

The best photos of your pets are not taken from your eye line. Instead, they meet the animal at its level to see the world from their eyes. When taking photos of your pets, prepare to get messy. Laying on the floor or crouching is the best way to get on their level and take pictures that showcase their likeness.

Use a Tripod and Remote

Nothing is more frustrating than thinking you have a perfect photo and discovering upon closer inspection that it’s just slightly blurry from motion. Using a tripod can help prevent shaking or slight movements that can ultimately impact the quality of your photo. Using a tripod with a remote is a great way to get action shots. Whether you want a close up of your cat investigating the treat you left near your camera or a shot of your dog catching a frisbee in midair, a tripod with a remote can make that possible. It’s always worth having these tools on hand so that you can hop into a few photos with your pet, as well.

Focus on The Eyes

The eyes are the most expressive part of living things, and your pets are no exception. Not only does focusing on the eye line make the most captivating photos, but it also gives you a target to aim for. If you have a cat that likes to lounge about, you might not be too concerned about capturing a photo. However, if you have a dog that loves running and playing or a bunny that knows it rules the roost, getting a picture can be tricky. Aiming for the eyes gives you the best chance of getting a good photo when your model is uncooperative.

Play With the Lighting

Lighting plays a significant role in how a photo turns out. Avoid taking pictures inside, especially if there are overhead lights that cast downward shadows. If you are taking an indoor photo, open up the curtains and let as much natural light as possible shine through. You may also consider setting up lights for this purpose.

The golden hour is another fantastic time to take photos. When the sun is rising or setting, the golden glow makes for warm, inviting images. Overcast days are also great for photos, as you don’t have to worry about shadows and glare from the sun. On bright overcast days, look for a shaded area that diffuses the light for crisp, professional-looking images.

Be Patient

Chances are your pet won’t have any idea what’s going on and will lack the same emotional investment into the process that you have. Taking photos of your pet is meant to be an enjoyable activity. If you start to get stressed out or your pet isn’t cooperating, take a break. Be sure to reward your pet with lots of love while maintaining a positive tone. You may even choose to pay your model with a new toy to celebrate your mutual success. An effective way to keep your patience is to plan your photoshoot around your pet’s schedule. If you know your dog is far more likely to relax and cooperate after his walk, plan your modeling session for that time.

Taking great pictures of your pets is an amazing way to include your fury friends in the family fun. Try some different things and turn your images into tributes and gifts the whole family will love.

Our talented team of creatives here at Sparksight decided to give it a try! Here is a fun loving edits of our office dog, Pepperoni.

What does the dream picture of your pet look like? Let us know if we can help!