Dogs, they’re unpredictable and full of fun. I love dogs and love having the opportunity to photograph them, so I am always up for that challenge. For those of you who are new to pet photography, here are some tips to help you adjust to working with man’s best friend.
1. Location
Location plays a huge role in the overall demeanor of a dog. My first choice would be to photograph a dog at their home. They are already familiar with the home or yard and will quickly adapt to someone new being in their territory. Many pet parents would prefer the dog to be photographed on-location rather than at their home. Be prepared to take some extra time before the shoot for the dog to sniff and scope out the area. Not only are they in a new location, but they also need to warm up to a new person as well. I request clients arrive 15-minutes prior to the session so the dog can start adjusting to the location.
Patience is a virtue – Unless your pet is very well trained, the odds of them doing exactly what you want when you want them to are very slim. Take your time, relax and go with the flow. You can encourage them to get in certain positions, but you’re better off letting nature take its course. Try photographing them during normal activities rather than creating a photo session. To get their attention, try squeaking their favorite toy just before you press the shutter button. Simply calling their name or making an unusual sound may help to create an inquisitive expression.