It’s time to reveal behind-the-scenes secrets for taking photos of Teddy, Bear, and Summer. We all love our fur babies, don’t we? And we all want to capture their adorable moments and memories through photographs. But it can be quite a task when your pets don’t sit still to get good shots. Whether it’s because they’re too excited, shy, or stubborn, taking good pictures of our pets requires patience, skill, a little planning, and a lot of treats!
The best images of Teddy, Bear, and Summer have been achieved by the combined efforts of Jim, Anthony, our son, and myself. We coax the dogs to the location we want, and then typically, I sit and hold my camera (iPhone or Canon EOS in Sports mode), and Anthony holds treats over my head. I always take multiple shots and then choose the best one. Then, I edit the photo. It takes time and patience.
In this blog post, I will share some general tips on taking great pictures of your pets, even when they’re constantly moving and you don’t have someone to help you.
Be Prepared with the Right Equipment
Before even attempting to draw your pet towards your camera, having the right equipment is essential. Be sure to have a camera that captures crisp and clear images, especially if you’re taking action shots. You can also use toys and treats to catch your pet’s attention and direct them to your camera. If your pet is particularly active, use a camera with continuous shooting or burst mode, like my Canon EOS in Sports mode, to quickly click several shots.
Create a Safe and Familiar Environment
Pets are usually more comfortable in familiar surroundings, which can help them relax and sit still for photos. Try to take the pictures in an area where your pet feels safest. Whether indoors or outdoors, ensure the area is well-lit and remove any physical hazards. If you’re taking photos with your pet in an unfamiliar location, give them time to explore and sniff around before taking out the camera.
Timing is Everything
Timing is crucial when taking photos of pets that won’t sit still. The best time to take pictures of pets is when they’re happy and relaxed, like after a nap or a good playtime. Ensure your pet has enough rest and is not feeling too energetic or anxious, which can result in blurred or unfocused shots.
Offer Incentives and Rewards
To encourage your pet to look at the camera or sit still:
- Offer them incentives and rewards.
- Use treats, toys, or their favorite food to draw their attention to your camera. You could even use your pet’s favorite person to capture their attention.
- Ask a family member or friend to stand next to the camera and call your pet’s name to get them to look at the camera. Or holding treats above the photographer’s head works for me.
- Make it an enjoyable experience for your pet, and they will be more likely to repeat the behavior the next time you snap a photo.
Patience is Key
Finally, it is essential to remember that pets can be unpredictable. They may not be in the mood for a photo shoot, and that’s okay. Be patient, and don’t force them to do something they don’t want to do. If your pet is uncooperative, take a break and try again later. Respect your pet’s boundaries, and don’t pressure them into doing something they’re uncomfortable with.
In conclusion, taking photos of pets that will only sit sometimes requires a lot of patience, effort, and practice. These tips can help you capture great shots of your furry friends, but it’s important to remember that only some photos will turn out perfectly. Ultimately, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the experience with your pet. With a little effort and much love, you’ll have cherished memories you will treasure for years. So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera, get your furry friend, and capture those precious moments!
Reference:
Puppy Training 101 | North Torrington Veterinary Hospital. https://torringtonvet.com/puppy-training-101-the-power-of-the-clicker/
Thank you for reading this blog post, and if you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the Comments section below.
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