Onquest Loc: Just Wandering

Any suggestions what lens to use? I've never been to a dog show before and have no idea how close I will be able to get to the dogs. This isn't a paid gig, just fun, so it isn't essential I get it right :)

davidrb Loc: Half way there on the 45th Parallel

Close up and wide shots are going to be the order of the day. But a zoom is going to allow getting to dogs that are uncomfortable around strangers. Some shows will allow you to get close, not in the way but close. Others will have special sections for photographers. Dog shows are for dog owners and they love attention their animals command. Cater to the dog, the owner will let you know how far you can get. These shots should be fun, please share them. GL

twindad Loc: SW Michigan, frolicking in the snow.

What lenses do you have available?

drdcs0025

I have been showing dogs for nearly 25 years and have photographed my own dogs as well as others almost as long. If this is your first dog show, I would suggest a zoom lens in the 24-105 range. The maximum length you will need is 200mm.

Now, some information to make things easier for you. You will be able to photograph the dogs from right outside the rings where they are being shown. Ring sizes are usually 100 feet by 100 feet for confirmation, larger for obedience and agility. You can also take photos in the grooming areas

DO NOT attempt to pet any dog without asking for permission from the owner or handler. Most owners and handlers will be happy to answer your questions about their dogs at their grooming area or after they have show. Handlers do not like to be bothered when they are waiting to go into the ring.

A dog show is a single elimination tournament. If you go to AKC.org, there is a pamphlet that you can download called A Beginner's Guide to Dog Shows.

https://www.akc.org/events/conformation/beginners.cfm

It will help you understand what is happening in the ring. You should have a great time.

Onquest Loc: Just Wandering

Thanks for all the info. My lenses are 28-70, and 75-300 which puts me right in no man's land unless I want to switch back and forth (no)! I want this to be a fun day with one lens. I also have another lens. 24-55, which has superior glass but limited range. It will be a big show with upwards of 30 rings, however, my advantage will be that my friends' dog's class is first in the line up. In theory that means many of the competitors and spectators won't arrive until a little later and I'm hoping that will give me a little latitude to get things worked out.

drdcs0025

If you only want to take one lens, take your 28-70. It will give you enough reach for most things that you will want to photograph.

Bret Loc: Dayton Ohio

What camera are you using? Nikon maybe rent a 18-300...or 28-300 for a weekend. Outside on a nice sunny day...should work pretty nice.

Bob Boner

I would go with the longer lens. Breeders may not want you close enough to the dogs to get frame-filling images, which I assume you will want. You can usually back up, but getting closer may be a problem.

Onquest Loc: Just Wandering

Ok, been there, done that. What fun. I settled for the longer lens, 75-300, and it worked out ok. Bret, I never thought to rent a lens! That would have been a great idea.