My computer's photo files have far more pictures of pets than people. I grab the camera a few times a month when my pets are snuggling, playing or engaging in some exceptionally cute behavior. Occasionally I get something worth e-mailing to a few friends. The results are seldom worth printing, let alone entering in a pet photography contest or putting on a holiday card.
Professional photographers like Mary Ludington and Jim Benda, on the other hand, create images that owners treasure forever. We can't replicate their innate talent or their years of practice. There are, however, some professional practices that can help amateurs produce better results.
Take your time
First: Getting a great pet photo takes time. Both Benda and Ludington say they devote about two hours to a photo session. For Benda, who does formal portraits in his Burnsville studio, this includes 30 minutes for animals to get comfortable in the setting. After that, Benda introduces himself carefully, giving them treats and getting down on the floor to interact with them.
"Pets, especially dogs, will pose themselves if you give them space and provide a comfort level," Benda says. "Don't force anything."
Pet owners who photograph their own animals have the advantage of being at home, where the animal is already comfortable. Benda advises that it's still important to set aside time so that you aren't rushing to get the shot. If you've introduced props or costumes, or if you have a complicated shot with multiple pets, assume that the session will take longer. After a few photos, it's good to take a rest break and then try again. In the studio, Benda is able to elevate the animal on a specially built platform. At home, you might have to get down on the floor so that you're photographing at their level, rather than having your pets staring up at you.
Ludington's photos of dogs and horses are taken in a safe location where she can "follow them, let them do what they do, notice how they move." Owners have an advantage here, as well, Ludington says.
"If it's your own animal, you'll know when it stops and is about to turn back to look at you," she says.
Those "signature moves" are often the things an owner most wants to preserve for posterity, Ludington says. Still, she advises owners not to immediately discard the not-quite-perfect shots, where the animal is a little off-center or has its eyes closed. Ludington's portfolio includes a Puli shaking itself, its flying dreadlocks making an abstract pattern.
"It's a great dog and a great story," she says.
Get the light right
The second thing that both Benda and Ludington urge is to learn how to use light. Ludington photographs animals out of doors. Benda says that natural light - outdoors or near a window - is a good option for people who don't have professional indoor lighting. Shooting indoors with a small flash can create what Benda calls "evil eye effect." Outside, the flash won't have that effect. The ideal condition is an overcast day or "open shade" - not bright sunlight, but not dark shadow, either.
Benda says a long-haired black and white dog is hardest to photograph. The long coat doesn't reflect highlights, while the extreme contrast makes it difficult to get the right exposure.
Ludington cites "black dog syndrome" - pet shelters have a higher proportion of black dogs, possibly because it's hard to create an alluring photo to attract potential adopters. Using the correct lighting and not using the automatic settings on the camera can help improve the shot. For tips on photographing black dogs, go to www.animalleague.org/blogs/photography.
The good news, Ludington says, is "there's really, truly no such thing as a non-photogenic dog." Benda and Ludington agree that cats, especially adults, can be harder because they generally won't pose on command. One of Benda's most difficult photo shoots began with an hour spent luring a frightened cat out of hiding.
Don't delay
Even though getting a great photo is a challenge, it's one that pet owners shouldn't put off too long. Frequently, professional photographers are hired to photograph elderly or even terminally ill pets. Working with an animal who no longer sees or hears well adds to the difficulty of getting a good shot.
Twin Cities photographer Patrick Nau offers tips for a professional session that would be equally helpful to amateurs: Brush and groom your pet prior to the session, have favorite treats on hand, and take an exercise and potty break before you start the shoot.
Of course, hiring a professional is always an option. Check out the work of local pet photographers at their websites:
Mary Ludington, www.maryludington.com
Jim Benda, www.bendaphotography.com
Patrick Nau, www.patricknau.com
Laura French is a freelance writer who lives in Roseville with three cats - Gracie, Tennessee Tuxedo and his pal Chumley, and Sofie, whose breed(s) will forever remain a mystery.
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