Pet Portrait Photography - Tips for Your Own Masterpiece
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For some pets, a good photograph representing
their best qualities comes naturally, while
for others it can be frustratingly elusive.
Many people choose to have professional
photos taken, and although this can lead
to a wonderful portrait, with a little preparation
and plenty of patience you may be able to
achieve similar results yourself. After
all...your four-legged companion is a member
of your family, and who else knows their
unique traits and idiosyncrasies better?
Here are a few simple yet effective suggestions
which I've found can offer good results...
The most important factor in pet photography
is lighting. Often the best possible light
is achieved outside in natural daylight, so
try experimenting with this even if your pet
is an indoor only pet. Of course, safety comes
first and this may not always be possible,
so having your pet close to a large window,
with plenty of natural light coming from behind
or slightly to the side of you as you face
your pet, is the next best option.
Remember to avoid direct sunlight, as it
can alter natural colouring and increase the
contrast between shadow and light, hiding
some features. A bright but overcast day is
perfect. Don't use a flash, as this can cause
red-eye and distort true colouring & shading.
An exception to the above, however, is if
your pet has a black coat, in which case a
flash or strong sunlight can actually bring
out shading and texture which may be lost
in photos taken under other lighting conditions.
Next to consider is pose and positioning.
Keep in mind it is most effective to take
the photos on their level, rather than having
your pet looking up at you which can distort
natural form. Don't make them come to you.
Instead, go to where they are most comfortable.
Sit on the grass, lie on the floor, whatever
it takes. Capture their most characteristic
expression & pose. If they are generally
happy, try to catch them doing their version
of a smile.
Understandably, many pets have no patience
for 'photo shoots' and find it hard to sit
still. If your pet is having trouble focusing,
a good idea is to have favorite treats or
toys at the ready. Hold them up near the camera
to catch - and hopefully hold - interest in
the right direction. Most importantly, don't
be afraid to be silly. Try making funny and
unusual noises or movements to get their attention.
Cameras can be distracting for some animals,
so if you cannot get your pet to behave normally,
try having someone else present to divert
their attention.
Above all else, remember to have fun and
don't be in a rush. Patience is most definitely
a virtue when it comes to taking a spectacular
pet photograph. Good luck!
"Sarah Theophilus is a successful pet portrait artist who's work is
featured online at Pets in Pastel - http://www.petsinpastel.com. Take a moment to browse her original works, art cards, prints, free e-cards, wallpapers and more."
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