To successfully photograph dogs you need to gather information about the dog. You need patience with the dog and the owner and you need to know if the person requesting photos is the owner. Only the owner can sign the model release form. You need to have a clear understanding what the owner expects and if the photos are for business or for personal enjoyment. Lastly you need to gather information about the dog’s temperament, interests and attributes.
Ask if the owner has ever had its dog's portrait taken by a professional photographer. If yes ask how was the experience? Were they pleased with the photographs? Ask to see a copy of their favorite photo of their dog. This gives you an idea of what they expect and how you can improve or do something different.
Here are twenty important questions you want to ask about the dog before you begin. Don’t be surprised if the owner can’t answer some of your questions. For some people this will be the first time they’ve been asked these questions. Observe the dog while you are talking with its owner. The dog’s reactions, actions and behavior can also give you clues and answers. Remember two important keys to great photos; patience and knowledge.
Twenty Questions:
1. Is your dog healthy? Has your dog had all its shots?
2. How do you reward your dog?
3. Does your dog have any mental or physical challenges (blind, deaf, unable to stand etc)?
4. Have you had any dog training? Does your dog understand commands?
5. How much time does your dog spend around people on a daily basis?
6. Has your dog eaten, drank water today?
7. Has your dog urinated and defecated today?
8. Has your dog gone for its daily hour walk?
9. Where does your dog spend most of its time, in a crate, tied to a leash, loose in your yard or loose in your house?
10. Does your dog have a favorite toy?
11. What distracts your dog?
12. What motivates your dog; food, sounds, objects, other animals or people?
13. What startles or frightens your dog; sounds, objects, other animals or people?
14. What does your dog do when frightened or startled (growl, bark, bite)?
15. What is your dogs temperament; friendly, aggressive anxious, calm or stressed?
16. Is your dog accustomed to a leash?
17. Who does your dog listen to the best?
18. What do you think is your dog’s best attribute?
19. Do you think your dog has an unattractive attribute? If yes what is it?
20. Does your dog look for you when you are not in sight?
You can use this information to capture the dog’s attentions for the photos you want. Remember it’s with patience you get the great shots. Make sure you have a towel to clean the dog’s eyes of crust and its mouth of foaming or dangling saliva. Make sure you have sufficient light to avoid using flash. I recommend photographing in an open outdoor space like a park, the beach or backyard.
For more information contact:
Renee Brown
Freelance Photographer, Graphic Designer and Mentor
