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Sure you know that your dog or cat is cute, but how do you show the rest of the world? Even the most obedient pet can be difficult to take pictures of, and if your pet is less than stellar in his obedience, good pictures may seem impossible. Actually, if you do a little advanced planning, you will be surprised at the quality of photographs that you end up with.
The first thing to do is to purchase 400-speed film for your camera. This film is best suited for action photography, and will give you a crisper picture even if there is movement when you are taking the picture. The next thing to do is to get some treats for your pet and work with him so that he begins to expect a treat from you. To do this say his name and then hand him a small treat. This is easier to do with a dog than a cat, but even a cat will look eagerly for little bits of chicken or other meat. The main thing to remember is to just give small bit of the treat out so the pet does not become bored to quickly with them. Once he is expecting the treats from you, you are ready to take the pictures. At this point, you may want to pack things up and do the pictures the next day. He will be eager for more treats and you will have more patience.
The next day, begin by checking out your background. Is there anything distracting that will take away from the quality of the picture? If you are outside, be on the look out for telephone poles, fence posts and bird baths that may seem to “grow” out of the back of your pet's head. If you are inside be certain that you have enough room to move around comfortably, and enough light coming from a variety of sources that your pet will not have “red eye”. For the best indoor pictures, use a flash and have an overhead light on. If you can open some curtains or bring in additional lamps, the pictures will look even better.
Now the stage is set and you are ready to begin. Start by getting your pet exactly where you want him. Then call his name, he will look at you expectantly for a split second as he awaits his treat. This is the time to get the picture. Then give him his treat. If you do not give him the treat quickly enough, he will come toward you. If this happens, give him a mild correction, move him back and try again. The key is to take many pictures. Even professional photographers take rolls and rolls of film to capture that one perfect shot. With patience and practice, you will end up with something that you love.
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