The holidays are a magical time of year; families come together, traditions are shared and the smell of cinnamon and fresh pine are in the air. However, the holidays can also be stressful, especially when it comes to capturing the perfect family photo. Finding the right lighting and location can be hard enough but adding a furry friend to the mix can make thingswell, a little hairy. So, to take the stress out of this years holiday photo-op, we put together this list of 7 tips to help you strike a pose with your pet, like you mean it!
1. Get Familiar with Your Camera (or Cell Phone)
Whether you plan to use a camera or your cell phone to snap your Kodak moment, make sure to familiarize yourself with its settings (including the timer feature if you dont have someone available to take your photo for you). If you do plan on taking your photos yourself, consider having a tripod or something stable to set your camera on during the shoot. This could also be the perfect time to dust-off the old selfie stick (we know you want to)!
2. No Flash Photography, Please
When taking photos of people or pets, natural lighting is best. If indoors, find a place with plenty of natural light. If you plan to take your photos outdoors, make sure to check the forecast ahead of time and aim for the morning or just before dusk when the lighting is at its best. Remember to always keep your pet leashed while outdoors, especially in new and unfamiliar environments.
3. Keep it Simple
To ensure you and your pet are the focal point of your photo, look for a background that is clear of clutter. A decorated fireplace mantel or Christmas tree can add a level of holiday cheer to your indoor photos, while outdoor spaces such as the backyard or the front steps of your home make great photo backdrops and are familiar spaces for your pet.
4. Get Ready for Your Close Up
Just like you, you want your pet to look festive and photo ready. If you don't have time to get them professionally groomed, a bath and a brush can go a long way. For a little extra holiday fun, consider coordinating outfits or using holiday props like Santa hats, holiday sweaters or a holiday-themed bandana tied to your pets collar. They may never forgive you, but at least theyll look adorable.
5. Keep Calm and Hairy On
Pets are sensitive to unfamiliar or high-stress environments. They may not be used to sitting for long periods of time or being over-stimulated by groups of people. One way to help keep them calm is to wear them out. Before your take your pictures, take your pup on a long walk or play a game of catch the mouse with your cat to help them work off some of that pent up energy.
6. Did Someone SayCheese?
Now that youre ready to take your pictures, its time to pull out all the stops to get (and keep) your pets attention. If you want them looking in the same direction as the rest of the family, try having the person taking the photo hold a piece of food or their favorite toy just above the camera while calling out to them. You may get some strange looks from people passing by, but itll be well worth it.
7. The More the Merrier
Even with all these tips and tricks in play, there will still be the occasional person closing their eyes or runaway squirrel to throw things off course. Capturing the perfect shot takes time, patience and a whole lot of options. So, snap away!
When you are ready to buy or sell your next home, please call me, Marie McLaughlin 727-858-7569.
