Our animals are like our children, in our hearts rooted deeply.
Personally speaking, our dogs were our first children. They were the first living things that we cared for as a couple and they were paramount in teaching us a lot about parenting early on.
There are a few things that I have learned about how to photograph them.
#1 Shoot From Eye Level
This means that I have to get down low, sometimes even on my belly. I employ this idea when taking photos in general. It's all about the perspective.
#2 When Kids Interact
I love to capture my children playing with my furry children. These are the pictures that warm my heart to no end. Also knowing that years from now I will look back on these simple candid shots with fondness makes me happy.
#3 Roll Around on the Floor (& Don't Forget the Camera)
I like to get down on the floor with the dogs and my camera. This way I can capture some rolling or growling or stretching. Whatever the action, I try to capture it. Then I can put them in a series like this. I quite like the fluidity of such a triptych that I created on flickr.
#4 Do You Wanna Take My Picture?
I snap photos of my [old girls] daily (ok, ok, so I'm snapping pictures of everything daily.) This tip is most important, though.
* * * *
Unfortunately our pets lives aren't as long as ours; they just can't be with us for the long haul. The dog pictured above in #4 is named Sadie. She's thirteen years old and nearing the end of her days with our family. Frailty of age has taken over her. Her bark is gone, as is her zest. Michael and I are making decisions about putting her to sleep. It's a hard road to travel. One thing's for certain, though…I sure am glad that I snap pictures of her. I'm glad that I have photo books and discs filled with pictures of her. She was our first baby.
It will be a sad day soon, but these photos will be cherished.
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great tips. Although getting a photo of Oscar is hard, as he likes to climb on my lap when I try to take photos of him. but I do have quite a few good ones that I have shot over the years. Great tips, as always, Mishelle!
I just read your post about your dog Sadie, my eyes are watering. I completely know what you mean, my husband and I do not have any kids yet but we have 2 fury kids who I love to death. I have tons of pictures of them, and will continue taking more after reading your post. I wish you the best and strength when that time does come for Sadie.
Best Regards, Lannie
Tucson, AZ