The Passion for Pet Photography

Pet photography can be very challenging, yet rewarding at the same time. Unlike human models, pets are harder to photograph, since they are difficult to direct for poses. They get easily distracted, bored or frightened and might try to run away once they see your camera lens pointing at them. They are either always napping or running around. This means that most of your snapshots are likely show your pets in various sleeping positions or as blurry shapes with weird camera angles as you try to get a decent shot.

However, the shots you can take of pets can be treasured for a long time, especially if you can catch their expressions, crazy antics, emotions and beauty. Whether your pet is a gorgeous Cocker Spaniel, a vividly colorful parrot, or a slithering reptile, you are bound to create some stunning pet photos.

Photo by Emery_Way

Pet Photography Requires Patience

You can take fantastic photos of your pets with a little (or a lot) of patience and perhaps a trick or two up your sleeve. To get them to look at your camera instead of everywhere else, call their name just before you click the shutter button. You can also dangle a treat near the camera so they will remain focused. Sleepy or tired dogs that are lounging around make great subjects. They won’t feel inclined to make quick movements as you take your shots. On the other hand, action shots of pets can also be highly interesting.

Photo by Soggydan

Let your pets get used to your camera so that they will feel relaxed and comfortable, and know that this object means no harm.

Pet Photography is Instantly Appealing

Photos of pets, no matter what species, size or breed, can be immediately appealing to us humans. They can be endearing, fascinating or even funny (as evidenced by the thousands of funny pet photos that are being shared on the Internet). If you are the pet owner, these photos are all the more precious since they are of your beloved pets. They have individual personalities that you can capture in a photograph. Grab photo opportunities by keeping your camera nearby and at the ready.

Photo by skuds

You Can Earn from Pet Photography

Pet photography is flourishing these days. You can sell your pets’ photos on online microstock sites, where you can earn based on their volume buying system. You can also sell them as greeting or holiday card covers, calendar prints or as individual framed or mounted prints. If you don’t have any pets, you can still earn from pet photography by getting assignments from clients who want photos taken of their pets.

Capture Details When Doing Pet Photography

Each pet is unique in its appearance. Highlight the physical assets of your pets by going closer and capturing their details. For instance, instead of taking a full body shot of your pet parrot, you can single out a specific portion such as its eye area. Close up shots allow the viewer to see fine and intricate details, such as the textures and patterns of its feather and skin, the hues of brilliant colors, and the gorgeous golden ring around its pupil.

Photo by Edwin Dalorzo

Pet photography will take a bit of practice as you discover more ways of getting great shots of pets. Bear in mind that pets are unique creatures, and your approach might differ with each. But when dealing with pets in general, always be patient, be ready with your camera, and be observant of their behavior and physical beauty, which you can maximize for the best visual impact in your photos.