10 Tips For Taking a Doggone Great Photo With Your Pup
If you have a dog, you probably have tons of pet photos in your camera roll right now. Obviously there is nothing wrong with making your doggo the star of your snapshots, but sometimes you might want to be in the photo too! But taking a selfie of Fur Mama and Fur Baby together can seem a little tough. Pups are known for being good at many things, but staying still is not one of them.
So we caught up with pet behaviorist Erin Askeland, CBCC-KA, training manager of Camp Bow Wow, and asked her to give her her best dog selfie tips:
1. Remember that you should always think “safety first” when it comes to your doggo. Be sure your pet is in an enclosed, safe space or leashed outdoors.
2. Consider taking your pet for a walk before the camera comes out. Since our fur babies don’t always sit still long enough for photos, some exercise earlier in the day might help them relax.
3. Figure out what pose you’re going for in advance. Whether you want to be smiling with your pup or showing off his or her trick of playing dead, planned shots will ensure both of you look great.
4. Use any tools you need to make the selfie process simpler. A selfie stick will obviously make getting a snapshot easier, but a timer and camera stand might also help. Whatever you end up using, make sure your pet sniffs it out before the photo session so the new items don’t freak him out.
5. Use your dog’s favorite treat or toy to guide him or her into place. A few calming pets on the head and hearing your voice full of praise never hurt either!
6. Be patient with your dog. It might take a few more shots than expected before your pet gets all settled in and ready for the camera.
7. Remove the flash from the snapshot. Bright lights can alarm some pets, and the last thing you want to do is scare your dog while taking a cute photo.
8. If your pet is up for it, a selfie is a great chance to show off a dog costume or other accessories. Never leave your pet alone with any clothing item or accessory and only keep them on for a short time. And never force your pet into a particular position (in your arms, by your face) for the camera.
9. Taking a group selfie with the dog (or multiple dogs)? Be sure to organize the people first in the shot, and then bring in the pets.
10. Don’t forget to take a lot of snapshots at once! That way, you can choose the best one later.
Have fun taking some tail-waggingly good photos with your good boy or girl!
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