If you have a pet, you know how it is – you just want to take their photos all. The. Time! I mean, it can’t be just me, right? Well, if you’re like me, Gabriel Richards of B&H has five easy yet effective tips to help you capture marvelous canine portraits. He teams up with photographer Sam Fuller to celebrate the National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day. Their practical tips will help you get perfect dog pictures, whether you’re at a shelter, in your backyard, or working in a studio.
[Related Reading: Silly dog stuck in a cat flap wins 2024 Comedy Pet Photo Awards]
Treats & Toys
Dogs love treats, and Gabriel says they’re one of the best tools in dog photography. They get and keep a dog’s attention like nothing else. But not all snacks are created equal. He recommends using small, meat-based treats. They’re quick to eat, less messy, and won’t fill the dog up too fast.
If a dog starts losing interest, try using a “high-value treat,” like a bit of string cheese or hot dog. Unsweetened peanut butter on a spoon can also be a fun option. It gets great reactions and expressions. But here’s an important disclaimer: some dogs, just like us humans, have food sensitivities. So, always check with the handler or the owner before giving their pup a treat!
And if treats stop working? Switch it up with toys. Toys are great for getting open-mouth shots and silly moments. Squeaky toys, in particular, are fantastic for grabbing the dog’s attention when it starts to wander.
Backgrounds (Indoors & Outdoors)
Whether you’re doing dog photography indoors or outdoors, Gabriel stresses one thing: keep the background simple. The dog is the star, not the setting.
At the NYC shelter, they use colorful seamless backdrops. These are easy to switch out and make the dog stand out. Outdoors, look for clean, natural backdrops. If the location feels cluttered, try using a wide aperture to blur the background and keep the focus on your furry subject.
Posing & Action Shots
Once you’ve got treats and a good background, it’s time to think about posing. Gabriel suggests talking to the handler first. Many shelter dogs already know basic commands like “sit,” which makes things easier.
For portraits, hold a treat or toy just above your lens to guide the dog’s gaze. Use a platform for smaller dogs—it helps keep them in place and makes lighting easier. Don’t forget to reward them between shots.
Looking for something more fun? Try action shots. A favorite is the treat-catching photo—toss a treat, set your camera to burst mode, and capture the moment mid-air. Another go-to is the “running at the camera” shot. A helper can release the dog while you crouch down with a treat ready. This one is easier to do outdoors, but it can work indoors too with enough space and editing.
Cameras & Lenses
Gabriel says you can start with whatever gear you have—even a phone. But if you’re getting serious about pet photography, a camera with animal eye-tracking is a great investment. Sam uses a Canon R6 with a 24–70mm f/2.8 lens. This setup tracks the dog’s eyes to keep focus sharp. That focal range also gives you space to interact with the dog without making them uncomfortable or distorting their features.
Lighting for Dog Photography
When it comes to lighting, Gabriel says start simple. If you’re new to dog photography, use continuous lighting. It’s less stressful for nervous animals and easier to manage if you’re still learning.
More advanced photographers might prefer strobes. They’re powerful and usually battery-powered, which means fewer cords. That’s a big plus for fast-moving shots like treat catching. But strobes also require more skill and timing. For beginners, continuous lighting is a great place to start.
For this shoot, they use one key light above the dog and two rim lights on each side. This setup highlights the dog’s shape and helps them pop off the background. But Gabriel says you don’t need three lights to begin with. Just start with one and build from there.
Bonus Dog Photography Tips
Before wrapping up, Gabriel shares a few final tips. First, pay attention to catchlights. Those little reflections in the eyes bring life to a portrait and show the dog’s personality better. Second, be patient, especially if working with shelter dogs, who may be nervous or overwhelmed. If things aren’t working, take a break. Reset. Try again.
And if you’re looking for a way to start in pet photography, Gabriel suggests reaching out to a local shelter. They often need updated photos and will be glad for the help. It’s also a great way to gain experience with lots of different animals and personalities. Oh, and if you happen to find the most perfect dog while you’re there… Well, you know what to do. 🙂
