Go Ahead…Shoot the Dog Already…With Your Camera, That Is!

  Posted on August 27, 2013  by Joy of Living  No comments

Party Marty here! If there is anything I do well it is everything! Yes, I am a jack of all trades, master of none, a mile wide and an inch deep. As such, today’s eagerly-anticipated topic is: How to Photograph Your Dog (without losing your mind, patience and sense of humor in the process).

If you love your dog, chances are you enjoy taking pictures of him. That oh-so-cute face; those silly antics. But how do you do it? After all, dogs are not notorious for just striking a pose.

Thanks to divinecaroline.com, we found a few helpful tips:

• Timing. If you are eager to get your dog in an action shot, consider doing this before you take him on that three-mile run. If, however, you want a more peaceful pose, then after the run makes perfect sense.
• Familiarity. Let your dog become accustomed to the camera. That click and flash can frighten a dog initially. Let your dog give the camera a good once-over with his sniffer. Then, casually begin to shoot pictures of your surroundings. Once your dog has accepted the camera, he will begin to do his own thing and you can point, click and shoot. Just keep things casual and relaxed. No use making a big deal out of this and arousing unnecessary excitement and/or anxiety in a dog.
• Take tons of pictures. The more you take, the better your chances are of getting some pretty remarkable shots. In other words, bring an extra battery!
• It would be wise to turn off the flash. Opt for warm, natural sunlight and shoot in the mornings or evenings or even on those slightly overcast days. If it is bright outside, take advantage of the shade. Indoor shots will most likely require a flash. Use an off-camera flash if possible and aim it upwards so the light bounces off the ceiling.
• Get down on your dog’s level. Don’t just stand over your dog. Boring angle. Be creative.
• Be aware of your background settings. A sandy beach or green trees will make your dog the focal point of the photo. Beware of those nasty photo bombs, too, such as tree branches that appear to grow out of the dog’s head or people running by in the background. And, please, if you dog is black or brown, avoid dark backgrounds. Conversely, if you dog is light-colored, stay away from light backgrounds.
• Ask a friend to help out. A little extra assistance never hurt.
• Don’t worry about perfection. Be creative. Aim for different angles. Take lots of pictures. You just never know what might develop!

Later, dudes!