How do you take good pictures of pets?

Your pet is probably the most adorable little creature in your life. But when it comes to capturing its beauty with a camera, it becomes harder than you may imagine it to be.

Just when you think of taking an insta-worthy photo, your pet refuses to sit still, or it comes sniffing around the camera, or it swiftly paws away. How can you take perfect-looking photographs of your pet after all? Here are some of the best tips and tricks to take good pictures with your pet!

1. Click Photos When Your Pet is in Its Natural Mode

There is never a better time to take your pet’s photo than when they are in their element. Is your pet a diva who likes to roam around in designer clothes, or does it like to sleep in its own special luxurious bedding? Or, is your pet a feisty little fellow that likes to play outdoors with other pets? Or, does your pet like to stay indoors and laze around in your bed? 

Carefully choose a moment where you can showcase your pet’s unique personality. To perfectly click a photo of your pet in its natural mode, you will need to be super active as well as spontaneous.

2. Take Pictures in a Flash-Off Mode

Most amateur photographers take photos with the flash turned on. Why would you do something that could startle your pet!?

If you want to make your photos bright and clear, bring in warm, natural sunlight, which means that you need to click your pet’s photos in the morning, afternoon, or early evening. For indoor shots, try taking photos in an area that’s filled with natural light, somewhere near the room’s window or door. An alternative is to use an off-camera flash, allowing you to adjust the direction and intensity of light your camera produces. The off-camera flash gives better-looking photos. 

3. Frame in the Background 

A good background can add so much meaning and depth to your pet’s photo. For instance, if you are taking a picture of your dog on the beach, let the soft white sand or soothing blue waves come into the frame. This will bring in colors and definitions to your photos. 

However, be careful of what you include in the background of your photos. For instance, too much black going on at the back of your black cat will take the focus off of your pet. A colored background that complements your pet will result in lovelier photographs. 

4. Get an Eye-to-Eye Shot 

Generally, photographers take a shot while standing over their pet. There’s nothing new, extraordinary, or even captivating about this style of pet photography. 

If you want to make your shots look unique or enchanting, get on the same level as your pet. Get down on your knees, sit, and look deeply into your pet’s eyes through your camera and show the world from their angle. This will fill your photo with a level of intimacy and heartfelt emotions.

5. Use a Fast Shutter Speed

Most pets like to stay active and have fun around – play outdoors with their toys or with other dogs and run to all their hearts’ content. In moments like these, capturing a decent photograph is no easy feat. To avoid blurry and out-of-focus photos, make sure you use a faster shutter speed.

However, keep in mind that with a faster speed, the lens will catch less light. You can balance this out with natural outdoor lighting. But in case you are taking indoor shots, you will have to rely on editing apps to add more light to your photos. 

6. Get the Necessary Support

There’s nothing wrong with enlisting help to get just the right shot of your pet. It’s rather a smart move on your part as long as your pet enjoys it. 

Here, you will have to tap into your pet’s personality to get the best shot. For instance, if your pet is happiest around treats, bribe it with some! This will help you get a sweet natural photo. Or, if your pet enjoys being with other domesticated animals, gather them all around and get the photo of your dream! 

7. Let Your Creativity Shine

It’s easier to let your creativity take shape when you have an obedient and easy-going pet. For example, a well-behaved dog can allow you to make it wear a cute, funny dress or glasses or anything. However, if your dog is not the best-behaved pet, you can’t expect it to listen to and obey you. That said, you can always try and see to what extent your little friend is willing to co-operate with you. 

8. Don’t Forget to Reward Your Pet

Sure, you have been hard at work, getting that perfect shot. But your pet was putting just as much effort into your endeavor as you, especially if you have been bribing it along the way. In times like these, you should not think twice and reward your pet for their hard work. 

Taking good pictures of your pet is a lot of fun. But if your pet is always restless and on the move, taking its photos can be a bit challenging. However, following our top 8 tips and tricks to take good pictures with your pet can help you get that perfect shot!