Dogs have unique personalities, complete with their own likes and dislikes. Much like children, they tend to behave better when their needs are met. Keeping this in mind can lead to a smoother experience when capturing dog portraits. Here are some tips for a successful and stress-free photoshoot with your furry friend:
- Choose a photographer experienced with dogs. While this may seem obvious, selecting a photographer with a background in working with dogs of various breeds and activity levels is crucial. Unlike photographers who usually handle children, a dog in full motion requires skills that come from experience. Unfortunately the greater Burlington area isn’t saturated with dog photographers so you may have to look to find me.
- Exhaust them before the session. Take your dog on a long walk or run beforehand. A well-exercised dog is more likely to respond to commands and will display softer, happier expressions.
- Select a location with minimal distractions. If your dog is reactive, steer clear of potential triggers. Opt for more secluded spots to create a calm environment.
- Ensure good lighting. While many prefer "golden hour" for photoshoots, if your dog has a darker coat, more light is essential. Low lighting can make it challenging to capture contrast, particularly for black dogs, who need the most illumination.
These two images highlight the significance of lighting. Dogs with darker coats exhibit lower contrast, and although camera sensors are sophisticated, they tend to mimic our brains by attempting to "fill in" unlit areas, which complicates post-production editing.
To circumvent this issue, opt for times when the sun is at its brightest or when there is ample light available.
- Bring treats, toys, and your pup's favorite items. These can help capture their attention for those perfect straight-on shots.
Lastly, remember to HAVE FUN. Your session should strike a balance between playful moments and serious captures.
Bonus tip: use this as a chance to work on basic obedience and further bond with your four legged family member. Dogs actually thrive on structure and while we look at obedience as a punishment they LOVE it. Basic commands such as "sit" or "stay" can make a huge difference in portrait outcomes and helps dogs feel more confident!
