How to capture pictures of your pet

Please make sure that your pet photo is well-lit from the front, it’s helpful to have nice reflections in the eyes and be able to see the colours and texture in the fur.

The best time to photograph your pet is in natural daylight (preferably cloudy) and avoid using the flash, as natural daylight shows the true colouring of your pet. Try to take the photo outside if you can. If not than choose a room with good natural lighting and near a window. However, don't shoot directly into the light source, have your back to the window so the light falls on your pet, not behind it.

Get Down On Their Level

Take the photos down on their level, or have a little distance and use the zoom function if you have it. Try to avoid taking photos looking straight down at your pet as this pose can be an unflattering angle for a portrait.

Use High Resolution

Set your camera to high resolution and use the zoom function for close-ups. I'm not sure if all camera's have this, but I have found if I press the button down halfway (it normally stops at a resting point) then the photo is ready to take and there won't be a delay while the camera adjusts to the light. 

Treats Are Your Friend (so is help)

If you are taking the photos yourself, keep treats handy. It can really help to have someone with you to get their attention while you take the photos, especially if your pet is camera shy. If you want a photo with their ears pricked, whistling or clapping or noise of some kind can help as dogs quite often drop their ears when they look at you. Be patient, it can take some time (and a few photo shoots) to get the photo you want. While I work from one main photo, its great if I have a few photos to reference from to get a good idea of the colouring, texture and personality. You will probably find that you will get many cute photos out of your photo shoots, even if they are not all suitable for portraits.