I recently carried out a photo session for Suzie, a wonderful little Jack Russell Terrier. This is what Jen (Suzie's owner) had to say about it:
"Suzi loved her photoshoot! She really enjoyed being the centre of attention and the relaxed atmosphere put her at ease. Sam was sensitive to Suzi's feelings and careful not make her feel uncomfortable or anxious with the equipment.
My partner and I were both delighted with the results. Suzi looks so beautiful and we have some very special pictures of her which will be treasured. I would highly recommend this service; excellent pictures and all taken with consideration for Suzi."
Jen Holden, Southampton
Thank you Jen and Suzie, it was a lot of fun and Suzie was a real star.
Getting an animal's character to show through in a portrait is not easy and you can't ask them to stand or pose in a certain way to get the photo you want the way you can with people - even the most obedient dog will only sit or stay for a little while before they get bored and walk off. I can have an idea in my head of a great shot I want to take but the animal usually has other ideas about what they want to do.
My philosophy when it comes to pet portraits is one of oberservation. I let the animal go about it's normal behaviour, playing, sleeping or whatever activity it would usually do. Not only does this help the animal to relax (yes, even animals get camera shy!) but they will interact with me keeping their interest in staying with me and not walking off.
Patience and adaptability are essential. A camera can be a very intimidating thing for an animal to have pointed at it. Some animals will not bat an eyelid at a stranger in their home pointing a camera at them but others will be more warey so I have to let the pet get used to me in its own time. I also have to be able to use lighting that the animal is happy with. Some, like Suzie, will be comfortable with studio lights flashing, others will not and I than use natural light to best effect.
Taking photographs in this way lets the animals character show through and I can get some great photos of the 'personality' that the owner knows and loves.
Of course, pet portraits don't just have to be for dogs. A portrait of any pet makes a wonderful and warming addition to any home and fantastic gifts for friends and family.
For details of our pet portrait packages please visit our main website at http://www.pawprintsphotography.co.uk/
