Your pet is doing that thing again. It’s the cutest thing ever, and it must be snapped, shared and forever immortalized on social media.
Your pet is doing that thing again. It’s the cutest thing ever, and it must be snapped, shared and forever immortalized on social media.
Just as you reach for the camera to compose the killer shot, your subject bolts. The moment is gone forever.
Taking memorable photos of your pets is challenging. But it’s not impossible.
Here are some tips.
1. Instead of trying to get your pets to stare squarely into the camera, consider photographing them in their natural state, where their quirkiness and personality emerge. Sleeping, playing, hunting, bathing or even getting caught in the act of chewing up your favorite pair of running shoes can make for truthful and infinitely better photos.
2. Moments happen in the blink of an eye, so be prepared and anticipate. Whether it’s an iPhone or a point-and-shoot camera, be familiar with its settings and ready to shoot when cuteness strikes.
3. Good photography is all about light. Soft, even light outdoors works best; morning and late afternoon are the best times to shoot. Indoors, turn the flash off and use available light. The flash produces a harsh effect as well as red eye, and some pets are spooked by it. Try posing your pet by a large window or open door.
4. Explore all angles and try the unexpected. Crouch down to their level and shoot from their perspective. Zoom in for visual impact so their face fills the frame. Isolate a particular detail, such as that big floppy tongue or those gorgeous green eyes. And don’t forget to pay attention to the backgrounds — you’ll want them to be clean and free of clutter.