Pet photography - how to keep animal looking at your camera?

1 year 17 hours ago #751673 by Kristy Blake
A engagement session I have coming up has two dogs that are going to be in the shoot as well.  I have zero experience with photographing dogs.  I want to be prepared, how do you keep them looking at your camera and listening to you? 


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1 year 10 hours ago #751679 by Razky

Kristy Blake wrote: A engagement session I have coming up has two dogs that are going to be in the shoot as well. I have zero experience with photographing dogs. I want to be prepared, how do you keep them looking at your camera and listening to you? 

What do you have against natural looking pictures of animals? Is that actually what the client wants?


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11 months 4 weeks ago #751735 by Rawley Photos
I'LL help you with a real answer. 

Any squeaky toy will do the trick.  Keep it in your non trigger hand, very similar to what you would do with a baby to get them to look at the camera.  


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The following user(s) said Thank You: Esseff
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11 months 3 weeks ago #751853 by CharleyL
Squeaky toys frequently work well, but I also keep Frisky Treats for Cats, and Blue Bits for Dogs, giving them a few at the start so they know what you have, and will want more. Having animals somewhat trained in the basics makes a big difference too. For some, the camera on tripod with remote trigger may work best. For others, hand holding the camera works best. It's sometimes best to get the owner out of the shooting room, but sometimes their presence can work best.

I never use flash of any kind when shooting pets or infants. I use LED light panels or other constant lighting. Pets and infants do not handle flash well, but are less afraid of constant light, even if very bright.

Charley


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11 months 3 weeks ago #751943 by Photo Amigo
My sister is a pet photographer, she uses baby toys


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11 months 2 weeks ago #752023 by Photo Junky
My neighbor does pet photography, and at the end of the day, patience is key with animals.  That and a good squeaky toy for dogs and red laser or feathers for a cat. 


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11 months 2 weeks ago #752058 by Fitch
And don't forget to treat the dog after they do well 


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