We take lots of puppy photos around here and trying to get good ones can be challenging. I need to create a photo album of all the “outtakes.” When taking six week pictures sometimes I have over 200 photos just to get 4 good pictures of 8 puppies!
We have learned a few tricks for capturing good ones, but it does require a bit of patience, something that Billy has more of than me.
Taking pictures of English Creme Goldens is even more challenging due to their coloring. If the sun is shining just right, the puppy’s coat can looked washed out. If the flash goes off in the right angle, the puppy can look like it has “gold” on its coat and there is none to the eye.
We have found taking the pictures in the shade or on a cloudy day the best lighting — early morning and evening works as well.
- Have a squeaky toy! This helps the puppy to “stop” for a moment with their ears perked up.
- Set your camera on “action” shot.
- It takes two people — one to set the puppy, one to take the picture. If you are doing it alone, plan on extra time to just “hang” out so that you can catch the puppy exploring, squeak a toy and be ready to take the picture.
- “Throwing” a white cloth up helps to distract, but be ready to take the picture.
Different things work for different puppies (just like our children) Some immediately run to play, when using the squeaky toy, instead of stopping. So, experiment. Different noises also work — the “Shhh” sound also works well.
Video taping Billy and I taking pictures of the puppies — now that would make some funny entertainment.
Happy Picture Taking!
Debbie
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