10 photoshoot tips for the “pawfect” Holiday card!
It’s that time of year! To help capture the perfect portrait of your pet this Holiday season, we’ve put together a list of tips to do the trick:
- Practice makes “pawfect”! Review your pet’s commands (sit, stay, lay down) before the big shoot. This will help your dog or cat understand and follow your directions.
- Seek inspiration. Check out Instagram and Pinterest for ideas, such as pet-safe props and composition. Check the background before you start and remove distracting objects.
- Make a “shot” list. Similar to a musician’s set list, organizing your photoshoot can help showcase your pet and their personality while scheduling talent breaks!
- Lighting. Use natural lighting when you can. If you plan to photograph your pet outside, avoid mid-day when the sunlight is harshest. Morning and late afternoon are the best times of day but stay out of the direct sun. Cloudy days are the best for even light. To capture natural lighting indoors, position yourself between your pet and a window. By standing at a slight angle, you’re not casting a shadow over your pet.
- Have treats and toys on hand. Your pet may focus better when their favorite treats and toys are in front of them.
- Take a lot of pictures. Be snap-happy and take as many photos as you can. Professional pet photographers will take upwards of 100-200 photos! It's better to have more to choose from than to have to start over.
- Zoom out. If you want to focus on your pet’s cute-as-a-button nose or their pink paws, zoom out a bit wider than you want when taking the picture. This way if you don’t like how it looks cropped, you can go back to the original photograph.
- Change your perspective. Your pet is low to the ground, so instead of standing up for every shot, try getting down to their level by crouching or laying down.
- Patience. Take your time! Don't plan the photoshoot for a day when you’re over-scheduled. Your pet’s happiness is top priority. Rushing and demanding too much could create a stressed pet.
- Use both hands. If you don’t have a tripod, hold your phone or camera with both hands for stability. Position your elbows tight to your side and take a deep breath in and start snapping photos as you breathe out. If you have a tripod, try setting the timer and jump into the picture with your pet.
If all else fails, nothing says “Happy Holidays” like blooper reel of your pet, with their eyes half closed or shaking off those reindeer antlers you tried to position just so! Everyone will get a laugh, and don’t we all need a little humor during the busy holiday season?
Found the best shot? Upload it as your pet’s new profile picture on the myVCA app! >>
