Eight Tips for Taking Pictures of Pets

Pets are a large part of a child’s life. If you have a child that enjoys taking pictures, you have probably noticed they take numerous pictures of their pets. As the parent of a budding photographer, you should teach them that they are the storyteller. Taking pictures is a great way to practice mood and story. Here are some tips for taking pictures of pets:

Tip # 1 – Most animals are smaller than humans, so try getting on their level. Have your child photograph pictures of their pet on their stomach or anything that can get them lower than the pet, this will provide an interesting and exciting photo.

Tip # 2 – Use natural light when taking pictures of animals. Try to avoid using the flash because it can cause red-eye and frighten the animal. Try going outside or use a room that is well lit.

Tip # 3 – When taking pictures of pets, they need to feel comfortable and at ease. Teach your child to go to their pet instead of forcing the pet to come to them. Again, stress the importance of getting down to the level of the pet.

Use natural light when photographing pets.

Tip # 4 – Get close up shots. Teach your child how to fill the frame with your pet’s fur and face. By getting close up shots, it will make unique and beautiful animal portraits. It also gives value to the animal. By getting a picture of your dog or cat yawning, you are conveying their personality in the picture. Of course, make sure your child knows that they must respect the animal and don’t get too close if the animal becomes upset or agitated.

Tip # 5 – Have your child get a candid shot of their pet. It is always difficult to get your pet to hold still, so encourage your child to play with your pet and get them really tired. Once the pet is ready to sleep or wants to lie down, it will be easy for them to get a great shot. Another trick is to let the pet play by themselves and then when your budding photographer is ready to take the picture, blow a whistle or do something that will catch their attention for a few moments. This is just enough time for your child to get a great picture of their pet.

Tip # 6 – Teach your child to be patient when they are taking pictures of their pets. Pet photography requires a lot of patience and if you are patient enough, you will be able to get the picture you want. Most animals are quite playful when you first get home, so try not to take the picture then. Allow your pet to get comfortable and calm, then start taking pictures.

Tip # 7 – Teach your child how to hold the camera. If your child wants their pictures to look good, they need to learn how to hold the camera straight. You can teach them how to check the framing before they hit the shutter button. Blurred or fuzzy pictures result from poor technique. By showing your child how to hold the camera properly, you can avoid fuzzy images. You can also teach your child about a tripod and how to use it to avoid fuzzy pictures. If your child holds the camera with their left hand, teach them to tuck their left elbow on their stomach to provide additional support.

Tip # 8 – Teach your child to experiment. It is fun to try different angles, approaches and compositions. The great part about a digital camera is the fact that you can take hundreds of pictures and delete the bad ones.