When you are looking for a photographer to photograph your furry friends you really DO need to look for someone who specializes in dog photography. 

What exactly do I mean by that? Instead of being a Jack of all trades, a photographer can specialize in just one type of photography.  You all know the saying “Jack of all trades but master of none”.  Well that applies particularly to dog photography!

When you look for a photographer, do you expect him or her to be good at everything? Landscapes, product photography, headshots, weddings, newborns, pet photography, fashion .. and the list goes on. 

No! You expect (or should expect)  that your photographer specializes in your particular needs, in this case taking awesome photos of your dog.

So what expertise does a photographer need in order to specialize in dog photography?

You may believe that your photographer only requires a knowledge of photography and how to use their professional (hopefully!) camera. 

But a photographer who specializes in dogs needs a whole lot more!

7 points to consider when looking for a photographer that specializes in dogs.

When you choose a photographer to take photos of your dog and yourself, can he or she check all the boxes in the following areas?

1. Have a good understanding of dog behaviour, preferably with background in dog training. Do they know how to deal with anxious dogs, reactive dogs, shy dogs? Do they know how to approach them, how to make them feel at ease, how to recognize their signs of stress and understand their body language? This is a must!

2. Willingness to roll around in the dirt, mud, snow or water to get that perfect shot of your dog. Not everyone will want to do that.

3. Have the tools and tricks needed to coax a great facial expression and personality from your dog.
   
   I was recently chatting to an amazing wildlife photographer who complained that she could’nt get great photos of her dog! Well, you would think - wildlife and dogs - not that different right? But there is a difference and a professional dog photographer has certain skills that perhaps a wildlife photographer doesn’t have!

4. Have expertise in photographing fast action shots. Unless you plan to have a studio photoshoot, on-location outdoor sessions often incorporate dogs in action. Think of those awesome shots of your dog happily bounding towards you!

5. Have patience and time. It can take a great amount of patience to wait for a dog to look at the camera, or to stop barking or to pose as you would like them to. It takes patience and time to allow the dog a play break during the session. A pet photographer will need patience to deal with rambunctious puppies or un-cooperative dogs. A photographer who is relaxed, and patient will make the whole experience fun.

6. Spends the time necessary to remove leashes from the photos - because do you really want photos of your best friend with his or her leash hanging all over?

7. Also be knowledgeable about incorporating people into the photos with their dogs. I am sure as a client you are hoping to be in some of the photos with your pet and you want to look great in your dog and owner portrait too!
   

This is what makes dog photography a such specialized niche!

So before you go ahead and make your decision, be sure to ask your dog photographer if they can answer “I do” to all the above!

And if you need a dog photography specialist in the Toronto area, I DO check all those boxes.

Some time ago I wrote an article on choosing the right pet photographer. That article covered a few more general points so if you have landed here please check that article out too!

Please contact me to discuss your dog photography wishes.

For another look at the world of dog photography, Seattle dog photographer Holly Cook gives you a glimpse into her passion for working dogs.

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