When shooting in urban areas, look out for splashes of colour you can use - especially walls and doors. It doesn’t even need to be a large expanse of colour, especially if you shoot with...
I use various methods to get engaged expressions from my doggy subjects. Sometimes that’s yummy treats, sometimes it’s crazy noises (either from my mouth or from various noise-maker tools) and sometimes it’s just a matter...
Creating variety during a dog photography session is something many pet photographers struggle with. Just how many ways is it possible to capture the same subject at the same location, anyway?⠀ ⠀ An easy method I like...
Capturing moments like these is what makes your photos not just “a picture of a dog”, but a portrait of that particular dog. I took this as we were actually trying to manoeuvre both dogs...
I simply cannot emphasise the need for capturing expression enough, when photographing dogs.⠀ ⠀ Expression makes all the difference between taking a picture of a dog - and creating that dog’s portrait.⠀ ⠀ Expression is what draws you into...
This shot is a good lesson to illustrate why you should always be alert to what the dog is reacting to, and be ready to use that to your advantage. Bendy was getting a...
I love a good “dog and owner” walking shot, but sometimes dogs that walk really calmly with their owner get that “hang dog” look about them, which doesn’t make for a great image.⠀ To get expression...
Capturing expression is SO important when photographing dogs.⠀ With Greyhounds especially, getting those ears up and forwards is always a challenge. Those aerodynamic little ears are designed to tuck back behind their heads for speed. Also...
Capturing expression in dogs is the number one thing that differentiates the work of a “pet photographer” with the work of a general photographer. An image can be technically perfect with beautiful lighting but still...
Image 1 of 5 of Ella’s Session in the series Creating Variety in Your Dog Photography Sessions This shot is a “puppy dog eyes” style but can you pick what makes it a bit different? It’s...
Image 4 of 5 of Dutchie’s Session in the series Creating Variety in Your Dog Photography Sessions Backlighting can be a tricky lighting technique to master. Ideally, when you’re shooting towards the sun, it’s best to...
One of the things I get asked all the time, is how to create a wide variety of different types of shots in a pet photography session. It's easy to fall into the habit of shooting the...
I love a good dog-and-owner silhouette. Since facial expressions are not visible, tell the story of their relationship in a different way. Having them facing each other and interacting is one way to do it!...
Be ready to capture those funny in-between expressions, as your clients will often love them! We worked really hard to get Sammy’s mouth closed as it was sooo humid and hot in Costa Rica. We...
Puppies are super fun to photograph but can be challenging! They are usually curious and responsive to all manner of things, but take care not to over-use effective noises to get their attention as they...
Always be ready for the unexpected! As much as we humanise them, dogs are animals, and animals do random things when you least expect it. Constantly observing the body language of your canine subject might...
Images of dogs are more endearing to us when they’re focused on us, alert and happy. Images where the dog is exhibiting eye contact, ears erect and forward, head up and even tilted a little...
What motivates your subject and gets their attention? For some dogs it’s treats, but for Pruna the Spanish Water Dog here, it was her ball! Pruna was one of the amazing models at our recent...
I can’t emphasise enough how important capturing expression is in dog photography! Expression is what sets your work apart and makes your images engaging, interesting and storytelling - rather than just a photo of a...
When shooting for a client, include favourite toys if they play a big part in the dog’s life! Photos like these are fun to look back on and jog happy memories in years to come....