Junebug at Apple Hill
I'm an animal person. Always have been. Always will be. As a kid, my first subjects in my snapshots were the family pets. Then I progressed to more creative photos of the various critters I could stir up. It only seems logical that as a young adult, my photography business developed into a studio specializing in animal photography. Now days, I spend as much time outside playing with animals of all sizes as I can. Whether photographing your own pets, or capturing the perfect family portrait with all the family members, photographing animals can be a challenge, but it can also be a lot of fun. Here are a few things I've learned along the way.
1. Plan ahead.
As with all sessions, planning ahead is always the most important element. My consultations for pet photography include both the pets and their families. I try to schedule enough time to observe the interaction between the animal and his human, preferably in a relaxed environment, where both can be free to be themselves. It is important to understand the relationship between pet and owner. We also go over the usual planning of wardrobe (yes, even the pets' wardrobe), props, location, and who will be in the portraits.
2. Recruit professional help.
I have a professional relationship with an excellent pet trainer, who is often on hand for assistance with large groups, or less cooperative subjects. It is well worth the investment, and a great source for mutual referrals.
3. Know the image you are going for.
Some owners are looking for specific poses for their breed, while others want you to capture their favorite four-legged child at play. Knowing your client's expectations helps you accomplish your goal.
4. Pets are like children.
Sometimes they are easier to shoot without mom's help. If you are comfortable with animals, and you have a trainer on hand, it is sometimes a good idea to have mom wait outside so FiFi the poodle can concentrate on being a model without clinging to her mother. In this case, it is especially important to know your goal.
5. Toys and treats can be tricky.
Just like with children, bribes can often backfire. Offering a treat can be great for a well-trained dog, but it can also be an irresistible distraction to an undisciplined puppy. Dogs who have been encouraged to fetch with enthusiasm sometimes are uncontrollable after seeing a ball. Ask the owner first before offering anything.
6. Location is a powerful component.
Animals enjoy the outdoors. Work with owners to find a location that provides colors and textures in good lighting, but is still a place where the animal can move around comfortably.
7. Safety is number one priority.
Be aware of special diets and allergies. Never offer treats to an animal until the owner has approved your choices. Never take an animal off leash unless the area is traffic and hazard free and the owner gives his permission. I begin each session on a location with, "Your comfort and safety is my number one concern. Never do anything that makes you uncomfortable in any way." The last thing anyone wants is to have an accident.
8. Know the animal's special talents and abilities.
Owners work hard to train their animals, and they will have special things they want to convey in their portraits. Maybe it is perfect confirmation in a purebred, or the cutest "sit up and beg" the world has ever seen. Whatever it is, know what to look for in the animal.
9. Know your subject's "awwww" moment.
They all have one, and if you capture it, you have won your client over. Rolling over and showing his belly, giving the baby kisses, or just that adorable why he cocks his head - it makes everyone watching say, "AWWWWW." Catch that, and you have bonded with human and animal alike.
10. Catch the sparkle in the eyes.
Just like their human counterparts, animals have the most expression in their eyes. High lights in the eyes gives extra life to your portrait.
11. Shoot from all levels.
Shoot from above and picture them in their surrounds, and get down in the grass and see the world from their point of view.
12 Use a shallow depth of field.
Animal portraits are beautiful when taken on location, using a shallow depth of field to catch enough of the background to add interest without distracting from the main subject.
13. Get up close and personal with your subject.
Don't be afraid to move in close. Use the details to reveal the true personality of the animal.
14. Animals are meant to move.
Be sure to put them through their favorite tricks, and to have them run to their master. I always include action shots with all my pet photography sessions.
15. Offer a wide variety of products.
Don't assume because you are photographing an animal, it means specialty items are not appealing to your client. On the contrary, they are often eager to buy specialty items because they don't photography their pets as often as they do other family members. My clients often request Christmas cards, calendars, etc. featuring their animals.
16. Include at least one "family portrait."
Even if they tell me they only want to photograph their pet, I always encourage my pet owners to take at least a couple of shots with their animal. Although they may be shy at first, they are almost always glad they have a picture with their favorite buddy.
17. Be creative with props.
Owners frequently bring their favorite toy, but I try to offer some of my own props as well. This can be something as simple as a colorful ball, to a very complex set up, depending on the animal. It always results in one of those "awwww" moments.
18. Don't force anything.
Forcing the issue with animals is just like trying to push children to sit still too long. They get tired, and bored, and frustrated. And so do the owners. If you have something you really want to do, and it isn't working, give it a rest and come back to it. Chances are, everyone will come back refreshed and ready to go.
19. Go for that one last shot.
Having said not to push it too far, shoot your pooches until they are pooped, and then shoot ten more frames. Unlike children who are by this point red in the face from crying, dogs are just "done." That look of total exasperation is one of my favorites, and I always try to include it.
20. Have fun!
Animal people are good people. They are flexible, adventurous, and open to experiment. Keep it up-beat, and you are sure to have a blast!
