Yes, having a high quality camera is a great asset in getting the perfect shot. But the equipment is a tool and it\u2019s all about how you use it. You don\u2019t need to have an expensive camera to get great shots. Just make the most of what you have!<\/p>\n
Tip #2: Check out the background<\/strong><\/p>\n Now sometimes your dog will be doing the cutest thing and you just have to get that photo! You can\u2019t worry about what\u2019s in the background or what\u2019s happening around your dog. All that matters is being quick and getting the shot. Of course after you take a shot or two you can then try to maneuver things around differently to minimize the clutter or unflattering background. The background makes a big difference so scan the area around your dog and see what you can do to improve it.<\/p>\n Tip #3: Use the right motivation<\/strong><\/p>\n During my photo sessions, I am all about using what appeals to the dog the most\u2026 which usually is treats but toys can also help. It never hurts to make photos fun for the dogs! If you\u2019re using treats, break them into smaller pieces so you can give small pieces frequently. Plus feeding bigger pieces may take longer for your dog to chew (and clean up all the little pieces\u2026.) which takes away from getting the shot you want because your dog is now preoccupied with eating.<\/p>\n Tip #4: Capture your dog being himself<\/strong><\/p>\n Does your dog have a favorite toy, place or past time? You know what your dog loves so incorporate that into your photo. I always try to learn as much as I can about the dog and what my clients love about them beforehand. That’s why I have a consult and planning session, either in person or over the phone,\u00a0for every session.\u00a0Images that capture your dog being his true self\u00a0are priceless! For example, if your\u00a0dog loves watching the squirrels in your backyard, this can make a great shot because your dog will be intent on watching and you\u2019ll get some fun shots of your dog being himself. Does your dog love water? Retrieving a toy thrown into a pond can also be a priceless memory. Is your dog more into stretching out and sleeping in the sunshine? That makes an adorable shot too. Whatever your dog loves to do, document it! These are the images that will speak to you and be most treasured as the days go by.<\/p>\n Tip #5: Get help<\/strong><\/p>\n Having a second pair of eyes and hands is always a great help to me! For certain dog personalities and certain types of shots, you may be able to do it all on your own and that\u2019s great too. But if you\u2019re going for a certain shot or have a camera shy dog, believe me, you\u2019ll be glad to have someone who can call your dog\u2019s name, offer treats, and move things around as needed.<\/p>\n Tip #6: Take your time<\/strong><\/p>\n Dogs like to do things on their own terms so usually being in a hurry doesn\u2019t result in the photos you\u2019re hoping for. I know this sounds basic but it is sometimes overlooked. The more time you have and the less rushed you and your dog feel the better the photos will turn out! For my sessions I don\u2019t have any time constraints, but most sessions take one and half to two hours. You don\u2019t have to spend that much time, but just realize that getting frame-worthy shots takes time, even for professionals. And that\u2019s okay!<\/p>\n Tip #7: Turn off the flash<\/strong><\/p>\n Flash can annoy your dog\u2019s eyes as well as create that green glow, similar to the red eyes people get. \u00a0Also the flash can scare your dog and give away the fact that you are taking a photo! Often I have client who tell me how their dog just knows when they are trying to take his photo and doesn\u2019t cooperate. The flash could be one reason why! Turn off the flash and use the lack of flash to your advantage. If you need to use a flash because the natural light isn\u2019t enough, don\u2019t aim the camera straight at your dog\u2019s face. Instead shoot at an angle.<\/p>\n Tip# 8: Get low<\/strong><\/p>\n Taking photos from above can work if you have knowledge of angles and lighting. I love the shots when dogs are looking right up into my camera. But one of the biggest differences you can make to improve your photos is to take them from a lower angle! Go ahead and experiment to see what angle is most flattering for your dog. Check out the difference here.<\/p>\n Tip #9: Choose a background that contrasts<\/strong><\/p>\n Think about the background of where you hope to take photos ahead of time. If the color of the background blends in with the color of your dog, your images aren\u2019t going to pop. Choosing contrasting colors in the image to be sure your dog is in the spotlight and not blending in!<\/p>\n Tip #10 Wear your dog out a little first!!<\/strong><\/p>\n During all my sessions, especially with high energy dogs, I start with playing and getting to know the dog. Action shots are always a favorite of mine and my clients and it\u2019s the perfect start to a great photo session. So when tackling photos of your dog yourself it\u2019s best not to try for the hard shots right away. Get your dog to burn off some energy by playing first. This will give you a chance to try for some actions shots too. Then after your dog is more relaxed you can try for the posed shots and shots that require a (semi) still dog.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.jennaregan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/bulldog-playing-with-toy-frisco-texas-pet-photo-shoot.jpg\")
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