Dog Photography - An Art Form

Here are a few pointers to aid you when you're pursuing dog photography and want only the best pictures (and not blurry fur).

Dog Photography Tip 1: Preoccupy Your Pet

For the average dog photography is simply an impediment to fun. Plus dogs are just as sensitive to humans when you aim a camera at their face. They often become suspicious and would rather be away from you than happily wagging their tongue at the lens. In order for you to not freak them out, you have to distract them. Throw them the proverbial bone by giving them something to chew on (a tennis ball maybe?) or a dog biscuit. Problem is, they might end up too engrossed in the distraction to pay you any attention. You still need them to look at the camera...

Dog Photography Tip 2: Recapture their Attention

Once they've been distracted, it's time to recall their attention to the camera. Your dog photography instincts may tell you to take it easy but don't listen! Prepare to take your shot as soon as you can. Set up and frame the animal nicely. Then whistle the dog to look at you. Or use anything that might make a curious noise (a squeaky toy or a tin lid perhaps). Don't waste valuable time here, as your dog will soon tire of your antics and you may lose a great chance to catch him off guard.

Dog Photography Tip 3: Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

Dogs love sleeping and you might want to take advantage of this opportunity where they are in a fixed position. Your squeaky toy will probably come into play again. Catch their attention with a nice loud noise (but not too loud, you don't want them completely out of their skin). Then get your shot before they realize the ruse and begin to hate you.

Dog Photography Tip 4: Get An Extra Hand

If things prove to be too much to handle alone, maybe you could ask someone to help you set your dog up. This would be of immense help as you can then focus on framing the picture and attending to your camera instead of trying to stop your dog from licking his private parts. Make sure your friend is out of frame when you decide to take the picture. This will take some coordination as it's likely the dog will lose his poise once your friend has moved out of shot. Again, timing is the key.

So there, just a few tips to help you get your dog into a cooperative mood (somewhat!) Dog photography can be hard work but is very rewarding if you pull it off. Have fun, we hope your pictures turn out great!