I love to capture pictures of my dog, Machete.  I take all of his pictures with the iPhone 12 pro max.  It doesn’t matter what camera you use as long as you get to know all the cool features your camera has.  The more your know about your camera the better pictures you will take. 

Let your dog get used to the camera. Machete and I have been together since he was a puppy.  He is now 2 ½ years old. He knows the camera and is very relaxed around the camera.  

Keep in mind lighting and background when taking your pet’s picture.  Taking pictures in natural light is best.  Natural light creates beautiful pictures without the red/green eye that flash may give in darker settings.  Avoid outdoor shadows by taking your pictures early in the day or later in the afternoon.

Motivate your dog to take pictures.  You know your dog best and what will make them cooperate with you for the pictures you want to capture.  You may need a bribe to motivate such as a treat or a toy.  The distraction will take the attention away from the camera and make your pet feel more comfortable. 

Motivate your dog to take pictures.  You know your dog best and what will make them cooperate with you for the pictures you want to capture.  You may need a bribe to motivate such as a treat or a toy.  The distraction will take the attention away from the camera and make your pet feel more comfortable. 

Getting down to your dog’s level will give you a different perspective.  You may need to get on your knees or use a tripod.  I like to use a tripod that extends about 25 inches.  It keeps my camera at his eye level and I can also get in the shot with him if I want to be in the picture.  

Location, location, location is important. Like most dogs, Machete is easily distracted by birds, squirrels, playdates, and when he hangs out with other fun humans.  But it is still a great photo opportunity.  Sometimes I get the best pictures of him when he’s having fun. 

Dogs love to have fun.  Let your dog be themselves and take lots of pictures.  With a digital camera, you can easily take lots of pictures and later delete the ones you don’t like.  Have fun and takes lots of pictures along the way.

Summary

  • Get to know your camera
  • Let your dog get used to the camera
  • Natural lighting & Background
  • Motivation 
  • Location 
  • Getting down to their level 
  • Take lots of pictures & Shutter Speed 
  • Creativity and Fun