Three P's of Pet Photography

Follow the three P's of pet photography you'll be able to capture your pet's personality, expressions, and special moments on film.

PREPAREDNESS The best animal poses usually happen spontaneously. So load the camera and keep it handy. Consider distributing disposable cameras around the house. You'll have a camera where and when you need it.

PLANNING Animal photography requires forethought. When shooting indoor pictures, close the room to prevent a photo-shy pet from escaping. Snap pictures while your children and pet play. If your camera allows, preset it to a fast shutter speed (1/250 or faster) to keep photos from blurring.

PATIENCE You may need to follow your animal around the house or yard to get that perfect pose. Keep a finger on the shutter, ready to react. When you see the pose, focus in closely so the animal

fills the viewfinder.

Creating Photo Opportunities

- Enlist your family's help. To capture an alert look, have your youngsters attract the animal's attention while you snap candid shots. Your assistant can coax your pet into position by offering a tidbit or a toy. After a romp with you or the kids, Fido will be ready to relax. That's the time to shoot stately portrait-like photos.

- When you're alone, whistle or call to get your pet's attention. But be ready to snap the shutter as you whistle, so you capture a spontaneous reaction.

- The camera's flash can send even steadfast watchdogs cowering to a corner. If this happens frequently, stick to outdoor shots. Or use high-speed film (ASA 800) that lets you take indoor photos without flash.

- Flash photos often add an unnatural red glow to an animal's eyes. That happens when the flash hits the subject directly, and the bright light reflects off the back of the eyes. To eliminate the red-eye look, avoid photographing your pet head-on. Aim the camera so you're focusing up or down at your pet's face. Or have someone direct the animal's gaze slightly to the side.