Capturing the perfect picture of your dog is not the easiest task in the world, especially if you've got an unpredictable pooch prone to bouts of the zoomies.
So, we've put together our favourite tips for taking the best photos of your dog for truly adorable prints and canvases.
It doesn't matter if you're an experienced photographer, want to fill your Instagram feed with adorable pictures of your furry family member, or are trying to capture the perfect shot of your best friend to create a beautiful canvas for your home, these top tips for taking dog photos will help you achieve stunning results.
Know your dog's quirks to help you anticipate what they'll do next.
Use natural to highlight your dog's cute parts instead of using a flash that could startle them or give them a severe case of red eye.
Get down on the floor to meet their eyes & be patient with your pooch.
Use burst mode on your camera to capture action shots & avoid cluttered backgrounds.
Understanding your dog's behaviour and personality is critical to capturing their essence in photos. Is your dog energetic or more laid-back? Knowing this will help you decide the best time and setting for your photoshoot.
Natural light is the best source of lighting for pet photography. It highlights your dog's features without creating harsh shadows. Try to take photos early or late in the afternoon when the light is softer. Avoid using flash, which can startle your dog and produce red-eye effects.
One of the best dog photography tips is to get down to your dog's eye level. This perspective creates a more intimate and engaging photo. Kneel, sit, or even lie down to capture their world from their point of view.
Patience is crucial when photographing dogs. They can be unpredictable and may not always cooperate. Have treats and toys on hand to keep their attention and reward them for good behaviour. Take breaks if needed to avoid overwhelming your pet. Grumpy dogs don’t make for good photo subjects.
Focus on the Eyes
The eyes are the window to the soul, and this is especially true in pet photography. Make sure their eyes are in focus to create a captivating image. Use the autofocus feature on your camera or smartphone to lock onto your dog's peepers.
Dogs are often in motion (if they're not sleeping on the couch), making it hard to capture the perfect shot. Use the burst mode on your camera to quickly take multiple photos to increase your chances of getting that perfect action shot or capturing their adorable derpy face.
A cluttered background can distract from your dog. Opt for simple, clean backgrounds that highlight your pet. Natural settings like a park or a beach can provide beautiful, unobtrusive backgrounds that add to the photo's overall composition. If you get the opportunity, try photographing your dog at sunset for beautiful silhouette pictures.
Every dog has a unique personality, and your photos should reflect that. If your dog loves to play, capture it in action with its favourite toy. If it's more relaxed, take pictures of it lounging in its favourite spot. Authentic moments make for the best photos.
Editing can enhance your dog photos, but be careful not to overdo it. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and saturation to make the colours pop. Use photo-editing software or apps to remove minor imperfections, but keep the edits natural.
We find it sad that most dog photos people take never make it off phones or camera memory cards.
While it's nice to be able to look at your beautiful pup whenever you want, there's nothing quite like a physical photo in your house or office to show your dog how much you love them.
Send us your best dog pictures, and we'll turn them into glossy or matte small-format photos, eye-catching large-format prints, and stunning canvases.
