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Photographing pets
Photographing pets can be lots of fun and rewarding but it can also be challenging. Like people, pets have personality, facial expressions and body language so one of the goals should be to capture their actions and emotions, whether alone or with others. Focus, lighting, exposure and backgrounds play important roles in obtaining a successful photo. So does lots of patience on the part of the photographer.
Photograph pets in familiar surroundings
Nothing will make your pet more jittery than trying to photograph it in unfamiliar surroundings. Take pictures in a familiar spot so your pet is more at ease. Since pets are active, photograph them in restricted but comfortable areas so they don't stray.
Natural lighting
Proper lighting is necessary so make sure there is enough of it. It's preferable to use natural light rather than a flash, which can "spook" some animals. Bright light is best because you can more easily capture the texture of an animals fur, feathers, etc. If you can't go outside, open window and door coverings to let outside light in the room. You may have to augment natural light with fill-in flash, particularly when the light is coming from behind the animal.
Using a flash
If your pet is not easily startled by a flash, use one when lighting is insufficient. To help prevent "white eye," take the picture when the pet is not looking directly into the flash. Adjust white balance to match the dominant source of light.
Exposure
Dark and light colored animals can be difficult to photograph, so take test photos to check your exposure. Use exposure compensation and bracket when needed.
