Photo Techniques Animals : Pets (Dogs and Cats)

Introduction

I would like to introduce a few simple techniques for  taking photos of your pet (cats and dogs) who,  I’m sure, is a member of your family. Communicate  with your pet on an even deeper level through photographs.

Instructor : Keiko Niimi

Instructor : Keiko Niimi

The instructor is a photographer of dogs and cats. She travels around the world and shares the lives of cats, dogs, and people through her photos and essays. She writes numerous columns in magazines and newspapers. With a well-established reputation for her insightful selection and helpful comments, she often serves as a judge for monthly photo contests. Her numerous published works include photograph collections and calendars.

http://blogs.yahoo.co.jp/inuneko_photo

1 Just take a lot of photos

Take a photo when your pet is stillGet ready to take photos when your pet starts groomingBe patient when taking photos of your pet

With pet photography, it's better not to use the flash. I recommend taking photographs with the camera set to the "Pet" scene mode (which collectively turns off the flash, operation sound, and AF auxiliary light).

Take a photo when your pet is sleepingPlace your pet on a chairTake a photo when your pet is inside their basket or cage

Take a photo when your pet is still

I often hear people say "my pet moves around so much, I've never been able to get a decent photo".
If that's the case, I suggest getting used to taking photos of them by photographing them when they're still. You should be able to calmly take photos when your pet is sleeping or when they are in their cage. If you place them on a chair or stool, even dogs will stay still for at least a little while.

Take a photo when your pet is sleepingPlace your pet on a chairTake a photo when your pet is inside their basket or cage

Cats groom themselves, in order, all the way to the tips of their feetThey take breaks every so oftenThey finish grooming by stretching out their arms and licking the inner side

Get ready to take photos  when your pet starts grooming

When cats are grooming themselves, although they aren't still, they don't move around too much. Therefore, you can half-press the shutter button to set the focus, and then just wait for the right moment to take the shot. It's the same for dogs since they also lick and scratch themselves. You should carefully observe your pets so you can anticipate their next move. That way you won't miss any photo opportunity.

* Refer to the following website for information
  on half-pressing the shutter button.
https://www.ricoh.com/r_dc/photostyle/knowledge/
preparation/focus.html

Cats groom themselves, in order, all the way to the tips of their feetThey take breaks every so oftenThey finish grooming by stretching out their arms and licking the inner side

Follow your cat’s movementsMove ahead of your catWhen your cat takes a break

Be patient when taking photos of your pet

It's also fun to take photos of cats and dogs playing in the yard. The fact that they're moving around makes it worthwhile to take photos, so don't give up and make sure to take as many photos as you can. Wait for the subject to take a break, or talk or praise your pet to make sure they don't get bored.

Follow your cat’s movementsMove ahead of your catWhen your cat takes a break
Take a photo when your pet is stillGet ready to take photos when your pet starts groomingBe patient when taking photos of your pet

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