How to take the perfect picture of your pet
Simple tips for better photos of your dog or cat, from using natural light instead of flash to getting down to their level, choosing a background and getting your pet used to the camera.
The short answer
Use soft natural light rather than flash, which can cause glowing eyes and flat, harsh pictures. Let your pet get used to your camera or phone first, get down to their eye level, choose a simple background that contrasts with their coat, and be patient and playful. The best shots are often spontaneous.
Key considerations
- 01Natural light gives warmer, softer pictures than flash.
- 02Let your pet sniff and get used to the camera before you start.
- 03Get down to your pet's eye level for a more natural shot.
- 04Try to avoid a background the same colour as your pet's coat.
If you have a dog or cat, you'll know how hard it is to catch that perfect moment on camera. Pets often stop what they're doing, look away or wander off the moment a phone comes out, and indoor light is often too dim to show them properly. A few simple habits make a big difference.
Turn the flash off
Natural light usually gives a better picture than flash. Flash can cause glowing eyes in pets, and it can make a photo look harsh and flat.
- Shoot in the morning or early evening, when the light is softer and warmer, to illuminate your picture naturally.
- Overcast days give even, gentle light.
- On a bright, sunny day, move into the shade.
- Indoors, place your pet safely near a window or glass door to catch soft daylight.
Get your pet used to the camera
The click of a camera or the sight of a phone pointed at them can unsettle some pets. Let your dog or cat sniff the camera or phone and get used to it. Then start taking a few casual pictures now and then, without fuss. Over time, they'll carry on with what they're doing while you take photos.
Get down to their level
Photos taken standing up and looking down on a pet tend to look unnatural. Instead, crouch or lie down next to your pet so the camera is at their eye level. From there you can get their whole body and posture in the shot.
Choose the right background
Simple backgrounds often work best. Green trees, a lawn or a sandy beach can make your pet stand out.
Think about colour, too. If your dog is black or brown, try to avoid a background of the same colour, or they may blend into it and lose detail.
Be creative
Experiment and have fun:
- Get close to capture your pet's face and expression.
- Step back and call your dog towards you, taking pictures as they run.
- Try lots of different angles and poses.
Don't get too hung up on the perfect shot. Relax and keep shooting, because the best pictures are often the spontaneous ones.
Questions readers ask
Should I use flash when photographing my pet?
It's usually best not to. Flash can cause glowing eyes and harsh, flat-looking pictures. Natural light near a window or outdoors in soft light works better.
How do I get my dog to look at the camera?
Let them get used to the camera first, get down to their level, and keep sessions relaxed. A favourite toy or a call of their name just before you take the picture can help catch their attention.
About this article
- Written by Mypetzilla Editorial Team
- Published
- Updated
This article is general pet advice, not veterinary or legal advice. If your pet is unwell, speak to a vet.
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