Introduction

We all love our furry friends, and for many of us, taking photos of them is a favorite pastime. However, photographing dogs can be quite difficult, especially if they are constantly moving around or not wanting to cooperate with you. In this post, we'll explore some of the reasons why taking photos of your pet can be such a time-consuming process. We'll also provide some tips on how to make the process a little bit easier. So whether you're a dog owner or just someone who loves taking pictures of animals, keep reading!

Example photos taken by Watkins Photography will also be included throughout the article. Click any image to see a bigger version.

There is ONE photo in this article that doesn’t quite match all the others. Anyone who finds which photo doesn’t go with all the others and comments will be entered to win a 20% DISCOUNT on any future photo session! Winner will be announced on 12/25/2022.

Why Pet Photos Can be Difficult

1. Pets are constantly moving, making it hard to get a good shot

Anyone who has ever tried to take a picture of their pet knows that it can be a challenge. Pets are constantly in motion, and they often have little patience for standing still. As a result, most pet pictures end up being blurry or out of focus. The key to taking a good pet picture is to be prepared. First, choose a location with plenty of natural light. Then, get down on your pet's level so that you're closer to their eye line. Finally, have some treats on hand to help keep your pet's attention. With a little planning, you can capture a great picture of your furry friend.

Below are example images of high-speed images Watkins Photography has captured

3. Dogs tend to look away from the camera or close their eyes

Dogs have the instinct to avoid eye contact. In the wild, making direct eye contact with a potential predator can be seen as a challenge, and it is often interpreted as a threat. This is why dogs tend to look away from the camera or close their eyes when they are being photographed - they are trying to avoid appearing threatening. However, this instinct can also make it difficult to get a good photo of your dog. If you want to get a great shot of your furry friend, try using a treat to get their attention and then snap the picture quickly. With a little patience and some treats, you should be able to capture your dog's personality in a photo.

4. Pets can be difficult to control and may run off-screen during a shoot

Pets can be difficult to control and may run off-screen during a shoot. This can disrupt the flow of your video/photos and make it difficult to edit. If you're using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you'll need to be extra careful to keep your pet in frame. Consider using a telephoto lens to help keep them in the frame, and make sure to have someone on hand to help keep them under control. If possible, try to shoot in an area where there's plenty of room for your pet to move around. Finally, remember that patience is key - if your pet isn't cooperating, it's okay to take a break and come back later. With a little planning and patience, you can get great footage or photos of your furry friend.

I usually carry a tiny squeaker with me and use it to keep the laser-focused attention of the dog

5. Bad lighting can make photos look washed out or too dark

Anyone who has ever taken a photo knows that lighting is important. The right amount of light can make a photo look vibrant and alive, while too much or too little light can make it look washed out or too dark. Unfortunately, not all lighting is created equal. Fluorescent lights, for example, often give photos a greenish tint, while incandescent lights can make them look yellowish. Sunlight, meanwhile, is usually the best light for taking photos, but it can be hard to control. By understanding the different types of lighting and how they affect photos, you can learn to take better pictures no matter what the conditions are.

The best time of day to take photos outside depends on the type of photo you want to take. For example, if you're looking to capture the stunning colors of a sunrise or sunset, then you'll need to be out early or stay late. However, If you're trying to avoid harsh shadows and squinting subjects, then midday is usually the best time to shoot. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. If you're photographing in a forest, for example, midday may be too bright and cause your photo to look washed out. In that case, an early morning or evening shoot would be better. The best way to figure out what time of day works best for your particular location is to experiment. Take a few shots at different times of day and see which ones turn out the best. With a little trial and error, you'll be sure to find the perfect time of day for your next photo session.

Professional photographers understand light in a way that most people don't. They know how to use it to create stunning images that capture a moment in time. They also know how to control it to minimize glare and maximize contrast. As a result, pro photographers can produce pictures that are simply not possible for amateur shooters. When choosing a photographer for a special pet photo session, it is important to consider their ability to understand and control light. Otherwise, you may end up with pictures that are flat and uninspiring. By choosing a pro who knows how to make the best use of light, you can be sure that your pictures will be anything but ordinary.

A few examples of light hitting pups just right

6. Backgrounds can be distracting and not complement the dog's features well

When taking a photo of your dog, it's important to consider the background. A busy or cluttered background can be distracting and take away from the dog's features. Likewise, a background that doesn't complement the dog's color can make the photo look unbalanced. It's best to choose a simple background that won't compete with the dog for attention. A plain wall or sheet of paper is often a good choice, or you can get creative and use something that reflects your dog's personality. Just make sure the background doesn't take away from the star of the show - your furry friend!

Opting for an outdoor session versus an indoor studio session

When it comes to professional pet photography, there are two main types of sessions: outdoor dog photo shoots and indoor studio sessions. Both have their unique benefits that can make for some stunning results. Outdoor shoots typically take advantage of natural lighting, which can add a warm and inviting feeling to the photos. They also tend to be less expensive than indoor studio sessions. Indoor studio sessions, on the other hand, offer complete control over the lighting conditions. This can help to create a more polished look, especially if you're going for a more formal feel. Professional studio lighting can also be used to create different moods and atmospheres in the photos. Ultimately, it's up to the photographer and the client to decide which type of session is right for them.

Below are 4 photos from an indoor studio session with lights (top 4) and 4 photos from outdoor sessions with natural light (bottom 4)

5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Pet Photographer

1. Professional Quality Images

Professional pet photographers have the skills, experience, and equipment to produce high-quality images that capture your pet’s personality. You will be able to choose from a wide range of prints, albums, and digital files that you can treasure for years to come.

A few examples of professional quality images of happy pets

2. Unique Experiences

A professional pet photographer will be able to provide unique experiences for your pet that you cannot achieve on your own. Professional photographers are experts in creating memorable images and know exactly how to capture the most special moments with your pet.

3. Convenience

Professional pet photography takes the hassle out of capturing beautiful, timeless photos of your pet. You don’t have to worry about setting up the lighting, props, and backdrops. The photographer will come to you with everything needed for a successful shoot.

4. Professional Editing

Professional photographers know how to edit images to make them look their very best. With advanced editing techniques, they can correct colors, remove any imperfections and enhance the overall look of the image.

5. Treasured Memories

Professional pet photography is an investment that will last a lifetime. You will be able to create beautiful images that you can share with friends and family and keep as fond reminders of the special bond between you and your pet. The photos you take with a professional photographer will truly become treasured memories.

Conclusion

I hope that this article was helpful and has given you a few ideas on how to photograph your dogs. However, if you feel like you need some extra help or want professional photos of your furry friends, please do not hesitate to contact Watkins Photography.

Watkins Photography is a highly-rated pet photographer in Mukilteo. John Watkins is passionate about helping dog owners capture beautiful photos of their furry friends. Watkins Photography has over 25 five-star reviews on Google, and many clients have praised our patience, professionalism, and ability to capture their pet's personality. If you're looking for a top-notch pet photographer in the Mukilteo area, look no further than Watkins Photography!

We would be more than happy to help you capture the perfect photo session with your dogs!

Tips for Taking Better Photos of Your Dog