Critters
by Debra Bell
Special to The Weekly
Pets throughout Maine will be purring and primping for their closeup as families increasingly choose to include them in the family holiday photos.
I know that we always include our pets in the holiday greeting cards. Not only does it show
off how cute they are (and they’re mighty cute), but it also validates them as a member of the
family. Our family loves seeing our “fur kids” and we enjoy showing them off. As a matter of fact,
once you start doing this, you won’t be able to stop without kickback. On years when we’ve
featured just one of the pets, we’ve had family members remind us that there’s more than just
the one at home.
As a pet photographer, I offer holiday pet portrait sessions to help families get out from behind
the camera and get in the picture with fido or fluffy. In honor of the sixth year of offering holiday
pet portraits, here are some tips for getting your own great photos of your pet for holiday cards
and gift giving.
• Prepare.
If you’re photographing your furry friend this holiday season, start by getting prepared. First, get her used to the look and sound of your camera. Put the camera out for her to sniff and investigate. Fire off a frame or two to ensure she’s comfy with the sound and the flash. Then, choose the outfit you’ll wear for your photos as well as any accents for your pet such as
a snazzy new collar or a holiday themed prop. If Fluffy has a long coat or is prone to drooling,
groom her before the session and have items on hand for quick touchups.
Finally, for step one, choose the location of your portrait. If you’re doing it in your home, consider turning on some extra lamps for more ambient light or choose a spot that gets great window light. At-home photographers will find the best success during midday when outdoor light is ample.
You might also consider going outside for some fun, playful action shots. Choose early morning or late afternoon for the nicest light, especially if you have a dark pet. Avoid shadowy areas in your surroundings which will only make your pet darker. Instead, choose a wide open field or an open area in your front yard. Maybe even your home’s front steps.
Before bringing your furry model in, take some test shots to ensure you’re all set and don’t
need to adjust lighting or the scene. Pet can sometimes be divas. Make sure you’re ready for
their whims. Get the whole family in (that includes you!)
One of the coolest parts of including your pet is the fact that your whole family will be present.
Children can hold leashes and help you maintain your pet’s attention which will make them feel
like part of the fun.
Read your camera’s manual to find out how to use the timer function. Most cameras use a
10-second countdown, allowing you to set up the scene then get in it.
Relax once you get in place and help pup look forward by scratching behind ears or under her
chin. Have everyone say a fun phrase like “fuzzy pickle” or “funky monkey” to encourage smiles.
• Have fun.
Our pets pick up on our emotional state, so if you start getting frustrated or upset, your pet will
get antsy and the photo op will be over. Instead, make the experience fun. Give lots of praise,
lots of treats and lots of good vibes during the pet photos.
If Fluffy pops down from her spot, have someone put her back in place then hold her there by
offering yummy treats or scritches behind the ears.
Dogs, in particular, respond well to noises. Try high pitched noises (or use a squeaky toy), chirp, meow or moo at your pet. And be ready to press the shutter when you get pup in place
and looking relaxed.
Then don’t forget to treat them. They’re working hard. High value treats, such as dehydrated liver, cooked chicken or tuna from the can, all work well to tempt the palate and enhance attention.
If you’d prefer to let the pros do all the hard work look to a local photographer to create images that capture you and your pet beautifully. My holiday pet portrait event dates are Nov. 2 at Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, Nov. 15 at For Dogs Boutique in Holden, and Dec. 6 at Maine Greyhound Placement Service in Augusta. Learn more at bffpetphotos.com/critters-blog.
Debra Bell is a freelance writer and graphic designer and is the owner of Bell’s Furry Friends
Photography (a division of Bell Imaging & Design LLC). For information, go to bffpetphotos.com.