8 tips for taking great pictures of your pets!
As an artist, capturing the essence and beauty of your subject is crucial to creating an impactful painting. When it comes to painting dogs, having high-quality reference photos can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you take great pictures of dogs that we can use as reference for your oil paintings.
“Curtis and Sailor” - oil on panel, 2022
Get the right lighting - Good lighting is the foundation of any great photograph. When taking pictures of dogs, aim for natural light or soft artificial light. The best time to take photos is during the golden hour, which is the hour before sunset and after sunrise, when the light is warm and soft. Avoid harsh, direct light that creates deep shadows.
Consider the background - The background is very important as this sets the mood of the painting. Aim for a pleasant background without too many distractions, maybe favorite spots, walks on the beach or in the backyard etc. Small objects can be removed or added during painting.
Focus on the eyes - The eyes are the windows to the soul, and this is especially true for dogs. When taking pictures of dogs, make sure to focus on their eyes to capture their personality and expression. Make sure the eyes are in focus and well lit, as this will make the picture more impactful and engaging.
Get Down to their level - Taking photos of dogs from above can make them look small and unimportant. Instead, get down to their level to give them a more prominent and dominant presence in your photos. This will also give you a better view of their eyes and facial expressions.
Use action shots - Dogs are naturally active creatures and capturing them in action can create dynamic and interesting reference photos. Whether they are running, playing, or just being themselves, action shots can help you capture their unique personalities and energy.
Experiment with different angles - Experimenting with different angles and perspectives can add interest and variety to your reference photos. Try taking pictures from different heights and angles and see what works best for you.
Use treats as motivation - Most dogs and pets are motivated by treats, so try using them to get their attention. Hold the treat near the camera lens and wait for your pet to look at the camera. You can also use treats to coax your pet into different positions or to get them to look in a specific direction.
Be patient - Dogs and pets can be unpredictable, so be prepared to wait for the perfect shot. Don’t be discouraged if your pet won’t stay still or if they won’t look at the camera. Keep trying different positions and different treats until you get the shot you want.
Taking great pictures of dogs for use as reference for your oil paintings takes patience, practice, and attention to detail. Remember to get the right lighting, focus on the eyes, get down to their level, use action shots, experiment with different angles, and use a good camera to achieve great results. Happy snapping!