How to Take Good Photos of Dogs and Kids… TOGETHER!
How to take good photos of dogs and kids can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are not a seasoned photographer. You want to capture their personality and energy, but they often don’t cooperate. The same goes for dogs – they’re always on the move, and it can be hard to get a good shot. But with a little bit of creativity and some well-practiced techniques, you can capture some amazing shots of these two important members of your family.
There are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting great photos.
#1 Try to tell a story with your pictures. Instead of just taking a snapshot of your child playing with the dog, try to capture a moment that reflects their relationship.
What is your child and dog doing in the photo? Is your dog licking your child’s face, or is your child throwing a ball for the dog to fetch? Are they snuggling on the couch? Telling a story will help to add context and interest to your photo. These types of pictures are not only informative, but they’re also fun to look at. They will bring back more emotions Also, kids love to role play… come up with ideas together: they could be pirates, superheroes, etc.
#2 Get help from a friend.
Work together to create photos for both of you and make an activity out of it.
#3 Don’t be afraid to get down on their level.
This will help you to see the world from their perspective, and it will also make them more comfortable with you.
#4 If inside, find a spot near a window where the light is soft and diffused.
Avoid direct sunlight, as it can create harsh shadows and squinty eyes. Position them so that they are facing the light. This will help to avoid any dark shadows on their face.
#5 If outside, find a spot in the shade to avoid direct sunlight.
Find an area where they can sit on (bench, large rock). Or around a “natural frame” like surrounded by trees, or in a doorway. Experiment with different angles and compositions to find what looks best for your photo.
#6 Finally, be patient. Dogs and children alike can sense when you’re in a hurry, and they’ll reciprocate by being fidgety themselves.
If you take your time and wait for the perfect moment, you’re more likely to get a great picture. And hey… some of the best pictures are the funny ones, the ones that didn’t turn out like we expected!
Have fun and be creative!
