It can be quite the challenge to take DSLR pictures of dogs, or any other animal for that matter! But when you want the best possible images of your canine companions, it pays to take the time to learn how to shoot like a pro. So, put your phone away and get down and dirty with a Canon.
Get as Low as Possible
It’s easy to take shots of dogs standing up. But your perspective is off because you aren’t aligned with the animal. You will get a more satisfying shot by getting at eye level with the dog. This can be challenging with smaller dogs like a Patterdale Terrier. But the difference is night and day. If you have issues getting low, you can set up a small tripod. It will also help to get knee and elbow pads. And wear clothing that you don’t mind getting a little bit dirty!
Choose Aperture Priority
Learning the exposure triangle is the cornerstone of DSLR photography. This includes aperture, ISO, and shutter speed. However, it isn’t 100% necessary to take expert-level images. Canon DSLRs come with quick settings for great pics! One of the most satisfying is Av or aperture priority. This allows you to control the aperture only, and the camera’s AI will control the ISO and shutter speed. A low f-stop aperture results in blurry backgrounds with a sharp subject.
Be Patient to Take DSLR Pictures of Dogs
Anyone can point a camera and shoot. But what makes a great picture rather than a good one? Many photographers will tell you that it’s all about being in the right place at the right time. Patience will pay off big time when trying to take pictures of dogs! They run, jump, and look away from the camera when they know you want a pic? Around 1.3 billion images are uploaded to Instagram every day. Make sure yours are the ones people think are worth looking at!
Experiment with Time Value
Time value (TV) is the quick setting on a camera that allows you to control the shutter speed while the AI manages the aperture and ISO. This is a unique setting as it allows for creative shots. A high shutter speed can freeze action in place with exquisite detail. This is good for fast-moving subjects. Dogs move quickly, and freezing the action can look great. However, there might be a need to convey movement. A lower shutter speed will apply some motion blur.
Try a Telephoto Lens
Getting up close and personal with dogs can be a nightmare with a camera. First, they will want to lick the lens! But they also seem to not want their picture taken, like little dogs on the run! The answer is a telephoto lens. These zoom lenses allow you to take photos from much further away, resulting in a more natural image. You can also get excellent portrait shots of dogs as they stop and look in a direction or runoff, where a high shutter speed captures the furry action!
Summary
Getting low, at the eye level of the subject, will help take DSLR pictures of dogs you can be proud of. However, patience is a massive help if you want to get the best images. A telephoto lens will help you get more natural photos when used with the correct aperture and time values.
