Six tips for a successful photography with furry friends

In recent years, photography has helped many animal shelters find fur-ever homes for rescue animals. With a little help from professional and amateur photographers, the qualities and characteristics of rescue animals are seen better. Even older pets are being rescued thanks to proper pet photography. Photography student and animal lover Janique Goff Madison shares six tips for a successful shoot with pets.

Know the pet. As with any other portraiture subject, getting to know them helps in building rapport and confidence with each other. Take it slow with the pet and follow their lead. Take advantage of burst mode and fast shutter speed. Some pets may find it difficult to sit still on a regular basis, let alone in front of a new person. Use sports photography training in capturing the pet’s best moments.

Shoot from their level. This would bring out the beauty in their eyes and can will do their genuine smile some justice. And since portraits are all about the eyes, focus on making them pop. For photographers without professional lighting equipment, natural light is the next best thing—probably the most ideal for pet photography. Capture the afternoon sun by the window or right outside the shelter to see the pet’s coat and eyes stand out.

Play with the framing. According to Janique Goff Madison, be as playful as the pet and try to capture them from different angles while keeping the same level. If possible, include a person in the photo to let the audience know how they are with people.