Capturing Fantastic Pet Photos

A Pet Owner's Guide to Capturing Special Moments

Miko Amaranthine
Do you ever wish you could capture a good moment in your pet's life? So many times my friends have tried to take photos of their pets however they turn out to be too blurry or the animal is not even in the final photo. In my house, our pets love the camera. Since an early age, we have been snapping photos, therefore I guess it is not a wonder they are familiar to the camera. When we grab the camera, our cat and dog completely change the action that they were doing and pose for the camera. Taking photos is one of my passions however my pets are too camera friendly. After all, you can only take so many blurry photos or posed photos before they get tiring. Here is a guide to get those photos that are good enough to place in a photo album.

1. For those pets (unlike mine) that are afraid of the noise, the first step is to get the pet acquainted with the noise. Even though technology has gone a long with camera noises, pets have better hearing and can get annoyed with the unusual buzz. Try turning on the camera every once in a while. For digital camera pet owners, you can try snapping photos a few different times so the pet can get used to the noise. For those without digital cameras, just turn the camera on and off every so often so the pet can get used to the camera running.

2. Bright flashes can also drive a pet away from the camera to get a good photo. Try taking a few flash photos while playing with a toy. When first introducing the flash to a pet do not point the light directly at the face but rather in a completely different direction from the pet. Pets like the bright light just about as much as we humans do, therefore it is important to get them used to it. Try throwing a toy away from the direction of the camera and taking a photo at the same time. For those less coordinated, two people might be needed to complete this step. The pet will soon relate the flash to having fun, therefore the pet will get used to having the bright flashes around.

3. After the pet is used to the camera and flash, it is time to take some action photos. These are the hardest photos to take, especially if you have posing pets. The trick is to take as many photos as possible in a short period of time. Since your pet is used to the camera, it will not shy away from the camera anymore. So, it is up to you to take the photos and just get the pet in the frame. Push down the camera button as many times as you can while the pet is in motion. You will be surprised at how many come out. For those with digital cameras, just delete the ones that are not needed. For those pet owners that have a non-digital camera, just tell the photo developing company that you wish all the photos without a pet in it to be deleted. By asking before the development of the photos, you can save money on those unwanted photos.

4. Professional looking photos without going to the professional are very easy. Basically just set up the location that you wish to snap photos of your pet. It is best if you can have a tripod for your camera however it just makes things a little easier for the pet owner. Place a stuffed animal in the place where the pet is supposed to be snapped. If there are a lot of shadows, move around some house lamps on the ground or on stands until less shadows are seen. Then, stash some treats in your pocket or in different parts of the set. Next, exercise your pet for around ten minutes, or until some of the energy has been released from the pet. Bring the pet insight and place on the spot that the stuffed toy was earlier. It might be wise to wipe off any drool and brush the pet before taking to the photo spot in your house. Tell the pet to sit and stay in the location that has been selected. Then, start taking photos. If the pet is a little tired out, bribe with the treats that are hidden. Take photos until there are a few choices. Then you are left with a photo!

Taking photos of pets are easier than first thought; it just takes a little set up time. For those pets that are scared of the camera, it is just about getting the pet used to the noise and lights. These steps just take preparation and patience, do not worry you will get the desired photos that you want.

Published by Miko Amaranthine

Freelancer that enjoys the flavor of life and the taste of new experiences. If you enjoy what you read, please contact me! *Special Note: Thanks Giuseppe Mascia for my profile photo! (See more of his wor...  View profile

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