Pets make some of the cutest (and funniest) photo subjects, but we know that photographing your four-legged friend isn’t always easy! That’s why we’ve put together our top tips for capturing dog photos on your phone.
1. Think about your location
Simple backgrounds work best when capturing photos of dogs. If you’re looking to take pet portraits in the great outdoors then a backdrop of a white sandy beach or green trees will work well.
Remember to pay attention to colour, you want your dog to stand out. For example, a chocolate Labrador will blend into a background of brown tree trunks, you want to choose a backdrop which will provide contrasting colours.
2. Get down to their level
To get the best dog photos, it’s important they feel at ease. So instead of standing over them, take a knee, sit on the floor, lie on your belly, or do whatever you need to get eye-to-eye with your dog.
Not only will this help your pet to feel more comfortable, it will allow you to capture dog photos from their view of the world.
3. Add some props to your dog photos
There’s no doubt about it, props add a real personal touch to your images. If you’re looking to create cute dog photos, try taking a picture of them sitting in your arm chair (if they are allowed on the furniture of course), snuggled up in their bed, or with their favourite soft toy.
Adding a prop, or costume can also be an easy way to capture funny dog photos, so if you are looking for that laugh out loud factor try searching sites such as Pinterest for the best prop and costume ideas. A couple of our favourites, a pair of sunglasses or for that special birthday dog photo, try a party hat.
4. Time your dog photos just right
If you are looking to capture more formal-looking pet portraits then choose a time when your dog is a little sleepy. Getting a crisp, sharp shot is much easier when they are a little less active and on-the-go!
Equally, if you want some real action shots to show off their playful nature, then choose the time of day when they get that sudden burst of energy!
5. Getting their attention
The beauty of using your iPhone means you don’t need to have your own eye down a lens, so you can get the dog to engage with you. Or if you have an assistant, even better! Get them to engage with your dog whilst you concentrate on getting the shot!
When it comes to getting their attention, you will know what works best for your dog. From calling their name, making a sound they respond to, using their favourite toy or providing treats. Be sure to keep rewarding your pup between shots!
6. Get creative with close ups
For the ultimate cute dog photos, be sure to capture those close-ups. Try getting up close so your dog fills the entire frame, or snap a head shot which shows off their profile.
Feeling extra creative? Get even closer to highlight your favourite part of your dog, from their gorgeous black, wet nose to those small but perfect formed paws! Try experimenting with angles too, front on, from above at 45 degree angles.
7. Think about lighting
Most amateur photographers do best with warm, natural sunlight, so that means shooting in the mornings or evenings, on slightly overcast days, or in the shade if it’s a really sunny day.
If you’re taking photos of dogs indoors, you will want to choose a room which gets lots of natural light. You won’t want to be using a flash as this could startle your pet so opt for the room with the largest window!
8. Capture dog photos which are full of character
You know your dog best and their funny little quirks and traits are what you love so much – so make sure to capture them.
Perhaps you have a smiling Spaniel or a French Bulldog who will snooze in the strangest positions? Think about what makes your pet so special, and then when the opportunity arises, grab your iPhone and get snapping. Guaranteed to result in some hilarious and rather cute dog photos.
Put all of these tips into action and you’ll have a phone full of gorgeous pet portraits! With PostSnap you can take your pictures from your phone to real photo prints in a matter of minutes, so you can fill your home and albums with your favourite dog photos.