5 Tips To Better Photograph Your Dog

My family adopted a sweet little pup a couple of months ago. Her name is Penny. She is so lovable, but she takes a little while to warm up to new people. Some dogs are like this. It makes it even harder to photograph them if you take them to a professional though because they have to spend so much time getting used to the photographer. I took pictures of my own dog. Since I'm her owner, I didn't have to go through that.

Here are 5 tips to help you take better pictures of your dog.

1. Let Your Dog Get Used To The Camera
If your dog has the chance to sniff the camera and here the shutter a couple time before you point it in their direction, they'll feel more comfortable when you start taking pictures of them.
2. Wear Your Dog Out Before You Start
Photographing dogs are like photographing children. They are active. They hardly ever sit still and it's not an easy job getting cute and beautiful photos from them. If they're worn out from playing before you start, you can get some nice relaxed shots. I don't suggest doing this when it's super hot outside or you'll get a lot of panting (giant tongue stuck out-which can sometimes be cute, but you don't want all your photos to look like this). Get some practice shots in while they're playing or running around. You know how I compared dogs to children? Well, just like children, sometimes dogs are even cuter when they're sleeping! If you get them tired enough, you might get some of these too.

3. Be Patient
Your dog is most likely not going to be 100% cooperative 100% of the time. Be patient. Wait it out. Chances are, if you wait for them to get their initial shyness or overwhelming urge to be crazy out, you'll get some amazing shots. Better yet, always keep your camera with you. That way, if you see the opportunity arise where your dog looks adorable or her surroundings really speak to who she is, you'll be ready.
4. Get Low
You don't want too many shots of your dog's head. If you get down to their level (unless you have a seriously massive dog) you'll get better profiles and straight on shots.

5. Use A Tripod If Your Dog Is Too Freaked By The Camera
Some dogs are not into seeing their owner disappear behind a camera. They see you hiding and think they're supposed to come find you. Sometimes, you can get some good shots still, but I suggest using a tripod. If you set up a tripod, use a remote shutter release, and stand just to the side of your camera, you can make funny faces and noises to get some cute looks from your pup.

Good luck with your dog's photography session. There are a lot of things to consider when taking pictures such as the lighting, aperture, ISO, background, etc. These are things to think about when photographing children, families, pets, couples, or anything really. These tips are to help you with your dog. We'll get into the tough stuff later.