Photographing animals brings with it a unique set of challenges.  I mean, I love my two cats, but frankly they stink at taking direction.  No, seriously…they stink at it!  I also volunteer at a local shelter taking pictures for their website, and you know what?  None of the cats would pose for me!  Dogs were not much better!   Fortunately there are ways to help overcome the language barrier. 

More is Better

 The first piece of advice is one you will hear often from me.  That advice is to take lots of pictures.  I mean a lot!  I know that this is more difficult if you are still using film, but even when I was using film, I would take more pictures than I thought I would need.  Often I’d take an entire roll to get one or two really good shots.  Sometimes more.  If you’re using the digital format, there are no excuses!  You can’t expect your first couple of photos to be the keepers.  Sometimes it is the 30th one that is the charm! 

Light it Up

 Lighting is critical in every photograph.  Animals particularly are prone to “red eye”, which comes across as blue or yellow.  Does this look seem familiar?

 That doesn’t make for an attractive photograph of a pretty darn cute cat!  Natural light shows her off to her best advantage.

So, whenever possible, use natural light.  You can even play with more dramatic lighting…sidelight and sunbeams can make for a more dramatic photograph.

Take a Unique Look

While it’s nice to have a gorgeous portrait of your little darling, it’s also fun to focus on an individual feature…

a paw

or a nose

Get Down To Their Level

Perspective is everything.  The “looking up with plaintive eyes” shot is lovely, and cute, but try getting on the floor, and shooting from their level.  It makes for a much more intimate photo.

Send In The Clowns

Animals are natural comedians.  Goofiness makes for a heartwarming portrait of your pet.

Up Close and Personal

Closeups can really bring drama to your photographs.  If your pet is used to being photographs, eventually she will let you get close enough to catch all the details of her beautiful face.

Fishing for Material

Are you dying to show off your aquatic pets?  Much of the same advice applies.  For these photos, I had my camera set for macro shooting, I got into a comfortable position in front of the tank, and let my subjects come to me.

 Pets are members of our family, and deserve to be immortalized.  Keep at it, and keep practicing…at least as much as they will let you!