Helpful Hints For Getting The Best Pet And Owner Portraits

By Betty Jones


Some people love their dogs and cats so much they want them immortalized in a professional photograph. Pet and owner portraits are becoming big business as more and more humans are willing to pay the cost and take the time to have them done. Professionals say there are some tricks to getting just the perfect picture.

Most humans realize, when they are having their pictures taken, it is important to sit still. Animals don't always react the same way. Photographers who are used to working with animals automatically block out extra time for the animal to get acclimated to new surroundings. Static poses require a certain amount of time, but dynamic poses can sometimes cause shoots to run longer.

The right lighting is critical for a good picture, but photographers usually fore go using flashes around animals. It startles even the most even tempered dogs, and can cause a cat to run for cover. Flashes are also the reason a lot of subjects end up with red eyes in their pictures. When outdoor photo shoots are scheduled, most photographers prefer to work before ten in the morning or after four in the afternoon. Natural light from windows and doors make interesting interior photos.

If the individual is requesting a portrait with the pet in a costume or enclosure, the photographer has to proceed carefully. Not all animals are comfortable wearing funny hats or clothing. They may not like the idea of being stuck in a cute basket or moving toy, like a wagon, either. If the photographer has made several attempts to take this kind of picture and failed, it may be time to reconsider the pose.

Dogs are especially susceptible to treats. They can often be persuaded to look attentive with the promise of a biscuit in the photographer's hand. Owners know what works best with their pets and can bring special treats for good behavior. Roaming the studio prior to a shoot helps settle many pets. It is usually worth the time spent to let them sniff and explore inside and out before posing.

Instead of trying to get animals into specific poses or sitting them at uncomfortable heights, some photographers get down on the pet's level. Other popular poses include pets and owners facing one another or posing together in profile. Taking pictures of pets and owners interacting makes great photos and helps show the relationship between them. Photographers often take dozens of pictures with different poses to get the most effective one.

Good animal photographers are ready for anything. Some shoot continuously as an animal is allowed a certain amount of freedom to move around the designated area with the owner moving in motion with the animal. Sometimes the best shots, and the ones owners love the most, are totally unplanned.

If you have ever add a special relationship with a pet, you know how great it would be to have a photograph to add to your memories. Professional pictures can be even more special. The money spent will be worth it.




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