Photographing your Pet

Please keep in mind that different methods work for different animals.

For Horses, always have a helper. Two extra people will really help. One to hold the lead, and one to hold up a good size mirror (horses will always perk up to a mirror image of themselves). If at all possible, take a full roll of pictures. That will usually guarantee 2 or 3 really good photos. Remember the better the photo, the better the portrait. Also, take all sides of the animal too. For a good headshot, have your horse's head turned slightly toward you so that you can see that outside eye. Also take several close up pictures. Just fill up that viewfinder! Small details can really make a difference from a good portrait to a "fantastic" portrait. Please take a few of your horse without a halter. Just slip the lead around their neck. You would be surprised how a halter can hide small important details. Unless, of course, you want the halter in the picture.

Dogs: I love taking photos of dogs. They absolutely love the attention and will pose all day especially if you give them a treat for being so good. So here is a good hint: Please get down to the same level that your dog is. I lay right down on the grass and get up close and personal. Get your pet in different positions - sitting, laying down, and standing. If you don't want their collar in the portrait please remove it for the photographs.

Cats: Now here is a little more of a challenge. My advice is be patient. If you have to take a few days to get that perfect shot, you'll be happier that you took the time to do it. Have them next to a sunny sliding glass door or a window where lots of light is coming in. If outside make sure the sun is at your back. I put my cats on my bed and turn every light on in the room and open the blinds all the way. Cats will not put up with you for long so candid shots will work very well. Also, with cats, get down to their level. On the floor or on the ground.

Other general tips:

Background: 2 things to remember - dark animal, light background; light animals, dark background

Angles: In photographing a horse form the front or the back use a long focal length lens. If using a regular lens(usually any point and shoot camera) take a broadside view and don't stand below or above your horse because that will distort the photograph.

Lighting: Use natural light always. That means no flash indoors. Try to pick a day that is slightly overcast, as bright sunlight can create harsh shadows. Bright overcast days are best.

Hint: In bright sunlight, use your flash. It will minimize those harsh shadows.

Remember: Any pictures that are copyrighted by the photographer (essentially, any NOT taken by you) have to have written permission before I can use them.

A brief description about some special qualities of your pet will also help me to capture the spirit and personality of your best friend. I require a minimum of 6 pictures of your horse or pet, but I prefer the whole roll. And of course, all photos will be returned to you.

Happy picture taking, and don't forget to hand out those treats!

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Unique horse and pets portraiture done with style. MaryLou is available to create that special portrait for you. To inquire about pricing, visit our Pricing Guide page. MaryLou will work from good, clear photos provided by you. If you would like to know more about what MaryLou can create for you, be sure to inquire at cactusmoonstudio@equineartguild.com.