If you’re anything like us, your phone’s camera roll will be full of cute photos of your pets playing, sleeping, eating, and doing just about anything else.
But how can you take the very best photos of your pet without paying for a professional shoot? If you’re waving the best dog toys around and hoping for the best, you’re in luck.
Personalized photo gifting brand Custtom has worked with a certified dog trainer and licensed vet to give us the advice we need – let’s take a look at their tips to take great pet photos.
1. Be prepared: Before you grab your camera or phone, make sure they’ve gone to the toilet and had a play session. For dogs, it’s a good idea to take them for a walk, too. And, ensure you have everything to hand, from treats to props, before you begin.
Tarik Jayousi, founder of A&T Trained Dogs, advises letting them explore the space first, too.
“You don’t need them to sit still right away. Keep it light, let them sniff around, and don’t rush,” he says. “If you’re relaxed, they will be too.”
2. Make it fun (and tasty): Treats and toys will help you keep your pet where you want them for the cutest snaps.
“Use whatever your pet goes wild for – chicken, cheese, tiny bits of hot dog,” says Terry Cuyler, certified trainer and founder of Paws Prof.
“Keep it upbeat and make sure they’re having fun.”
3. Take breaks when needed: If your pet loses interest, or gets overwhelmed or stressed, it’s time for a breather.
“Yawning, lip licking, avoiding eye contact, a tucked tail – those are all signs your dog needs a breather,” says Jayousi. “If those things keep happening even after a break, it’s best to stop and try another time.”
Cats sometimes go stiff or tense, flatten their ears, or start backing away when they’re not happy, says Dr Joanna Woodnutt, vet and founder of Petlearnia.
“Give them space. If they come back on their own, you’ve got another shot. If not, wrap it up.”
4. Keep it short and sweet: If you end the photoshoot well, it’s more likely that your pet will be happy to take part next time. Offer plenty of praise, a favorite toy, and a couple of treats at the end to finish on high, and stick to no more than 15–20 minutes for dogs – keep it shorter for puppies and senior dogs.
To finish, Custtom has also offered some advice on the photography side of things:
- Choose the best location
- Opt for natural light if possible
- Choose a simple background
- Go down to your pet’s level
- Add some personality
Read next: Pet photography ideas, best pet poses, and This is how I trained my dog to pose perfectly for pictures
