Helpful Hints For Getting The Best Pet And Owner Portraits

By Betty Jones


Pets are family to many people. They love the idea of having pictures with their animals just like the human pictures they proudly hang. The idea is catching on, and today more and more owners are opting to spend the money and formally pose with their beloved cats and dogs in professionally shot pet and owner portraits.

Most humans realize, when they are having their pictures taken, it is important to sit still. Animals don't always react the same way. Photographers who are used to working with animals automatically block out extra time for the animal to get acclimated to new surroundings. Static poses require a certain amount of time, but dynamic poses can sometimes cause shoots to run longer.

Whether studio or outdoor lighting is being used, the one thing photographers learn quickly is to never aim a flash at an animal. It will startle even the calmest of pets, and the probability of getting a red eye effect is high. If the pictures are being taken outside, most photographers avoid the hours of brightest sunlight. Interior shots using light streaming through windows and doors can make excellent photographs.

Some owners think their pets might look cute in some kind of costume or riding in a colorful toy. Most photographers prefer not to do this, but will make the attempt if the owner is determined. Sometimes animals are totally uncooperative, and the project has to be abandoned. Not all pets are comfortable in funny clothes or moving vehicles, like wagons.

Most animals like treats. Sometimes they can be maneuvered into a pose with the offer of a reward just out of camera range. Owners will know what kinds of special treats work best and may even bring some to their shoots. It is a good idea to let a pet roam around the studio or backyard for a bit to get used to the surroundings. This usually makes the photo session easier for everyone.

Unusual angles are one of the methods photographers use when working with animals. Getting down to their level can make a good picture. Effective portraits with pets and owners face to face or together in profile are also favorites. With these kinds of pictures, photographers want the viewer to get a sense of the true relationship between the pet and his or her owner. It may take a number of poses before the right tone is set and a perfect photo is shot.

Photographers who work with animals are always ready for the unexpected. Some of the best shoots are those that are complete spontaneous. Depending on the temperament of the animal, great pictures can be created with pets and owners relaxing and interacting informally. Photographers have special equipment that allows them to get good photos with the subjects in action.

If you have ever add a special relationship with a pet, you know how great it would be to have a photograph to add to your memories. Professional pictures can be even more special. The money spent will be worth it.




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