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Tips for getting the Perfect Photo of your Pet
The camera is often a split second behind the perfect shot...
For best results remember ''H.E.A.P''
Help, Expression, Attention, Position
It is virtually impossible to get a good photo of your dog without help, unless you've a very obliging pet and the patience of a saint! Ideally you will need 3 people, one to control the pet , one to get it's attention and one to take the photo. This way you'll probably end up with a three quarters view which is more interesting than a side view.
EXPRESSION
Whether you are planning to commission a portrait or draw from the photo yourself, you'll find it's most important to capture the individual character of your subject. Look for any distinguishing features and try to get that typical expression that makes your pet unique. 'Full face' photos work best if the face is not symmetrical - e.g. some dogs typically have one ear pricked up or tend to tilt their heads when listening, or perhaps they have unusual markings such as a blue eye and a brown eye. Otherwise a three quarters view can be a good option to make the composition more interesting.
Get a cat or dogs attention by saying something your pet understands, making a sudden noise or offering food or a toy. A high pitched 'meow' often does the trick for dogs. Others are most alert when the owner walks off or is just out of sight. Horses may respond to the sound of a bucket of food.
POSITION
It's usually best to take your pet's photo outdoors in bright shade or hazy sunshine. A flash or very bright sunshine should be avoided if at all possible. Crouch down so the photo is taken from the pets eye level, don't get too close to avoid distortion. Always take digital photos using the highest resolution your camera allows. If possible stay further back and zoom in to concentrate on the face without being too intrusive. Alternatively you can then 'zoom in' afterwards by cropping to head and shoulders without loosing too much definition.
Good Luck!