From puppy hood to adulthood, here are some tips for taking dog pictures
Gallery of photos at the end
The newborn stage can be one of the easiest or one of the most challenging stages to photograph. When they are this young, timing is of the essence. Wait until they have eaten and are ready to sleep. As a result, they are less fussy and more cooperative during the quick time necessary for the photos. You should keep an eye on how mommy is feeling, in order to avoid stressing her out. It might not be possible to take photos at this stage if some mothers are uncomfortable with you picking up their pups. Be careful not to keep them away from their siblings or mother for an extended period of time. For each puppy, you should only use a maximum of five minutes so that the puppy can be returned to its pen. In the event that you need to come back to the puppy, you may do so. Spotters are also essential to ensure the safety of the puppy.
The puppies have recently become more active, with their ears and eyes now open. This is an ideal time for photography, as making noises and movements can capture their adorable expressions. Placing the puppies in a bowl can help keep them contained during the shoot, and their mother will likely be more relaxed at this stage. Before starting the shoot, it is best to ensure the puppies have eaten, played, and gone to the bathroom. However, as their attention spans are limited, it is important to work quickly and be prepared to photograph each puppy multiple times. As the puppies are now exploring and more active, it is essential to have a spotter present to ensure their safety.
This stage can be challenging as the puppies are more active and haven't learned any commands yet. Additionally, they are no longer easy to contain in a bowl. With regards to doodles, they are developing a fluffy appearance which is perfect for achieving the teddy bear look. This is an ideal time to capture them in a scruffy style which will fade once their adult hair grows in. Assistance will be required to keep the puppy in place during this stage. Puppies are naturally curious and will want to explore their surroundings, making it an opportune moment to capture adorable photos. If taking photos outside, it is important to ensure that the puppy is in a secure area where they cannot come to harm. It should be noted that the majority of puppies have not yet learned proper recall techniques.
This stage can be considered the most convenient for capturing photos of your dog. As they are familiar with commands and you have established a bond, they feel at ease with you and trust you. This opens up a plethora of location options for you to choose from. You need not worry about your dog running off if their training has been successful. While posed shots in optimal lighting and settings can create a pleasant ambiance for your photos, action shots can also be intriguing. They can accentuate your dog's personality and add a special touch to your photography.
It is essential not to underestimate the significance of photographs featuring you and your canine companion. Photographs are eternal, and you will undoubtedly want to have some pictures of yourself with your dog. I make it a point to have photos taken with Drew and myself at least once a year. You do not necessarily have to do it as frequently, but I enjoy observing how much we have evolved each year. Just like during adulthood, the possibilities for locations are limitless.
Planning for photoshoots can vary in duration, ranging from a few hours to several months. It is important to keep a close eye on the weather when shooting outdoors, as each season presents its own challenges. In the spring, one must contend with rain and insects. Summer brings heat, sun, and occasionally forest fires, depending on the location. In the fall, it is important to capture the changing colors of the leaves before they fall off. Winter presents its own challenges, such as cold temperatures and heavy snowfall. Personally, I find autumn to be the most enjoyable season for photography due to the vibrant colors of the leaves, even though this period only lasts for a few weeks.
When using props, it is essential to consider their placement and suitability for the vision of the shoot. Care must be taken to ensure that the subject is not overshadowed by the prop and that it fits seamlessly into the desired outcome. For shoots involving children, I find that a bowl or similar object can provide more flexibility in positioning the subject. Anything can be used as a prop, but it is essential to approach it with a fresh perspective.