pet photo shoot
Jun 13, 2012 07:42:27 #
egglady wrote:
I'm doing my first outdoor pet photo shoot & portraits. Any suggestions on what I need? What lens, backdrop, squeeky toys, etc?? Its outdoors at a state park, I have a canon 40 D and assorted canon lenses. Thanks for any tips, tricks & abvise.
I have found that the sun is not your friend when photographing dark colored dogs, shade is much better. The less attention you attract, the more relaxed and natural the dog will be. I agree in using a long lens. I have attached a picture of my Lab, Bart, taken at eye level, which is an excellent suggestion on here.
I have also included a picture of "Baby" a black great dane pup taken in bright sunlight...very lucky here.
Jun 13, 2012 07:47:13 #
Jun 13, 2012 07:49:49 #
Jun 13, 2012 07:51:23 #
Jun 13, 2012 07:57:36 #
A special thank you to all who responded. Lots of wonderful advise and tips. You all make this site what it is. Very informative, helpful, learning friendly site. can't thank you all enough.
Jun 13, 2012 08:07:00 #
Of course sqeeky toys are a must. But the most important thing is having a proper attitude. It's imperative that you establish a good rapport with your subjects, I can't stress this enough. Good luck!
My toy poodle, "Sparky"
Sparky loves to run.
Jun 13, 2012 08:20:55 #
egglady wrote:
this is perfect! Just what I' m lookoling for. Yes it is for dogs. Pet day , adoptions, agility, police dog training, paw prints, Photos, thank you very much.
It sounds like you're going to be busy. Good luck.
Jun 13, 2012 08:47:21 #
glojo
Loc: South Devon, England
Sparky 5 wrote:
Of course sqeeky toys are a must. But the most important thing is having a proper attitude. It's imperative that you establish a good rapport with your subjects, I can't stress this enough. Good luck!
I like the second image but as a VERY PERSONAL observation the first one is emphasising to much 'rump' :oops: :oops: :wink:
Much better to get those sparkling eyes which the owners will always say are adorable. :)
A lead tells its own story and if the owner can take charge of their mutt then it looks better without.
I LOVE natural shots and your pooch certainly likes to play :)
Jun 13, 2012 09:17:43 #
glojo
Loc: South Devon, England
If only the Devil could cast it's net.
NOT my picture but I'm in it :oops:
NOT my picture but I'm in it :oops:
Jun 13, 2012 09:23:46 #
If you get a dog that won't pose or hold still for the picture. You can get the owner to hold the dog by there back end and shoot the front end. Then get them to hold the front end without changing location of the dog and then shoot the rear end. In post you can merge the two ends and get a portrait no one else can get of the dog. It helps to run the dog some to get them to coopperate better. They say 20 minute of exercize goes a long way. If the dog is tired they tend to yon so be ready to get them with there mouth open.
Jun 13, 2012 09:26:40 #
sirlensalot
Loc: Arizona
If you can, I would think direct light, not flash, preferably umbrella, soft box would work better.
I have seen one light used with a reflector. Lighting was about a 45 angle from front and above, with reflector used from below and slightly angled back into head and shoulders. The guy shooting was using a home depot type work light with a daylight bulb. I do not know if this is a preferred method but it seemed to work for him. Have no idea what shots looked like, only that they were psed for the most part. Yes, he did use squeaky toys, and a backdrop. Nothing fancy.
I have seen one light used with a reflector. Lighting was about a 45 angle from front and above, with reflector used from below and slightly angled back into head and shoulders. The guy shooting was using a home depot type work light with a daylight bulb. I do not know if this is a preferred method but it seemed to work for him. Have no idea what shots looked like, only that they were psed for the most part. Yes, he did use squeaky toys, and a backdrop. Nothing fancy.
Jun 13, 2012 09:41:09 #
Just a couple more things to add. If you shoot agility indoors no flash is allowed. And I have a bird app on my phone I use to tilt heads because somtimes a toy will make them get up for it. The weird bird noises work or I make weird noises. I sure this is in there but allways get down to the dogs level or put it up on something.
Jun 13, 2012 11:46:04 #
Jun 13, 2012 12:10:29 #
I take a lot of dog photos for our SPCA, and I've found that taking them alone (by myself) is often the best thing because it keeps the animals from being distracted. That being said, some dogs simply don't want to pay attention, so you need another person. BUt here's the thing--most "helpers" hold the toy or cookie or whatever too far up, giving you a dog with nothing but neck and/or teeth showing, which is not a good look. If the helper is going to hold an object to engage the dog's attention, have him/her hold it right smack above your head. :) This will help get that eye-to-eye look you want in your picture.
Jun 13, 2012 12:19:56 #
usaellie101
Loc: Spring Hill, Florida
Hoosier in GA wrote:
quote=egglady I'm doing my first outdoor pet phot... (show quote)
What a beauty! Your shot caught the majesty of this wonderful dog.
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