pamperedpuppy // luxury lifestyles for dogs

Composition

In good photographs, composition is key. Spend a little time thinking about the distance between the camera and Fido, the angle of your camera and the scenery surrounding you. You'll be shooting better pictures in no time!

1. Get closer: Do you want a picture of the entire park or a picture of your pooch? A good rule of thumb is to fill up your camera's frame (or viewfinder) with your subject. It will prevent objects in the background from becoming distracting elements in your photograph. While you should get as close as possible, ensure that you have enough distance to focus properly. For most point and shoot cameras with auto-focus, you can't get more than 2 or 3 feet from your subject and still be in focus. Check out the manual from the details.

2. Dog's Eye View: We mean this literally. Get down on your knees or your belly if you have to, but perspective is everything when you're taking pictures. Getting on the same level as your dog can help your images tell an authentic or unique story. Don't be afraid to get dirty.

3. Watch the scenery: We've all done it before. Taken a fantastic picture with a streetlamp growing out of Aunt Matilda's head. Dog photography is no different. Pay attention to the background. Simple is best. Get as far away from walls as possible, especially while indoors and using a flash, in order to avoid capturing harsh shadows. Avoid backgrounds with strong lines, patterns or distracting colours.

A good rule of thumb is to fill up your camera's frame (or viewfinder) with your subject.

Don't worry if it takes you some time to set up your shots in the beginning. Soon you'll think about composition almost subconsciously.

One of the secrets to great photography is the ability of telling a story by freezing a moment in time. Think about the story that your photograph tells about your little furry friend.

Rule of thirds: "X" doesn't necessarily mark the spot

We sometimes think that the focusing aid and light meter in the viewfinder is there to help us center our subject - but they're not!

One simple way to compose a good photograph and make it more visually interesting is to avoid centering your pooch in the middle of the frame. To do this, visualize a tic-tac-toe grid in your viewfinder, dividing the frame into thirds both horizontally and vertically. Try to place your pooch in one of the intersections away from the center. Similarly, avoid placing the horizon line in the center of your frame. Try for the top third or bottom third of the frame.

Talk to your pooch

Talking to your dog is an obvious way to get them to look at you. But be careful what you say and how you say it. Calling out your dog's name is usually not the best option. Most dogs understand that they should come whenever they're called, and they'll move towards you and the camera. You've trained them to do just that, but it's hard to get them to realize that you don't mean it when you've got a camera in hand.

Whispering can work wonders. It's likely a vocal level that Fido hasn't heard from you before and many times he will tilt his head and cock his ears like he's really listening. Try using favorite words or phrases like "Want a cookie?" or "Want to go outside?" to get a fun expression. The unique character of your pooch will be revealed.

Don't be ashamed to call for reinforcements. Sometimes you just need an extra pair of hands. Trying to get a nice profile shot? Have a friend stand beside you with attention grabbing toys, speaking to your puppy in a quiet voice. While they are interacting with your pooch, you can concentrate on composition and lighting. You'll get a nice side profile of Fido.

Keep reading: Displaying your photos »