A close up head shot of Leo.
This photo of Billie shows how using the flash flattens the subject and causes 'red eye'.
Harley's photo is a good example of three quarter lighting.
This shows how under exposure effects a black dog.
Breaking the rules with a backlit subject.
"Do I need any special equipment?"
No you don’t. Most simple cameras are capable of taking good pictures of your pet. This guide will not cover how to use a camera but will concentrate on the aspects of taking pet photos. I will assume that you know how to operate your camera. One of the technical aspect of your camera you should know is ‘what the minimum focal length is’ you should not take a picture from any closer than this.
The most important rule is patience.
Do not stress your pet by trying to get that perfect shot if your pet gets bored, stop and try again later. Wait for a time when your animal is in a more receptive mood. It is often easier to enlist the help of someone else so that one person can look after the pet while the other takes the pictures.
"What camera setting should I use?"
If you have a fancy camera with lots of settings I would recommend using the auto mode. This will allow you to concentrate on getting a good photo without worrying about operating the camera. The one exception to this is:- If you have a black or a white pet then you may need to use exposure compensation. – Black dogs tend to be underexposed i.e. you see no detail, they are completely black. If your camera has it try increasing the exposure. Conversely white dogs tend to be overexposed i.e. they appear completely white with no detail so you can try decreasing the exposure by a couple of stops.
"How close should I be?"
Ideally your subject should fill most of the frame, or maybe closer to get perhaps a head shot (don’t forget, do not go closer than the minimum focal length of your camera) If your camera has a zoom, then zoom in but step back so as to not crowd the subject.
"What about lighting?"
Out doors gives generally the best results. Flash photography flattens the subject and can produce red eye problems. The best results are out of doors on a slightly overcast day. You should try to take the picture with the sun behind you over your shoulder. This gives what is known as three quarters lighting giving form and depth to the subject. On bright days try using flash out of doors this fills in the detail that would be lost in deep shadow.
"What position should I be in?"
Try to take pictures at eye level. Many people take pictures of their pet standing above looking down on them. This does not give pleasing results. Crouch down to the level of your pet or put them on a table or other object to bring them up to your level.
"What about the background?"
You should attempt to have a uncomplicated, neutral background so that it does not destract from the subject. (When I take photos I don't care because when I come to paint the picture I substitute my own background).
Another important rule is...
There are no rules. The above are just guidelines. Sometimes the most creative photos are achieved by not following any rules.