Thursday, November 2, 2017

Tricks For Taking Outstanding 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 have had their picture taken at one time or another and understand the necessity of staying still. Animals don't have the same experience, and may become restless and uncooperative without some advance planning. Adding an extra forty-five minutes or so to a regular session, sometimes gives the animal a chance to settle down. Static poses usually go more quickly than dynamic ones.

All photographers understand the importance of good lighting, but those experienced with pet pictures know flashing a light in an animal's eyes can be a very bad idea. Calm dogs can become jumpy, and cats may disappear completely. Red eyes in the photo is another negative result of a flash. Natural light streaming from open doors and windows can make interesting interior photos. The best outside light tends to be early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Sometimes owners have their own ideas about what kind of picture they want. Occasionally they choose to put their pets in costumes, inside baskets, or sitting on wagons. Although these poses are not usually the photographer's first choice, they are worth an attempt. They can be successful, but often even docile dogs and cats object to unnatural poses and uncomfortable clothing.

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.

Instead of trying to get animals into specific poses or sitting them at uncomfortable heights, some photographers get down on the pet's level. Other popular poses include pets and owners facing one another or posing together in profile. Taking pictures of pets and owners interacting makes great photos and helps show the relationship between them. Photographers often take dozens of pictures with different poses to get the most effective one.

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.

When you have had a pet you were especially close to, you never forget. It is great if you have a beautiful photo to remind you of that relationship. Having a professional shoot the portrait can be pricey, but the result will be worth it.




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