Pet Photography History

Many people grow close to their pets. Whether they have dogs, cats, birds or lizards, people who care for their pets often like to document them. Pet photography--a recent trend of pet portraiture--is how many pet owners pay homage to their furry family.

  1. The Facts

    • Having portraits made of a pet is the equivalent of having them immortalized on film. For high-quality photos, most people turn to professional pet photographers. These pet photographers usually offer a choice: studio shots in their professional photography studio or location shots at the client's home.

    History

    • Although pet photography has been around for as long as personal cameras have, the movement from hobby to profession has happened within the last 20 years or so. In 1996, The Humane Society began using pet photography as an advertising and marketing technique by endorsing the "All American" Pet Photo Contest. Pet photography has also been featured in major films. A Google search for "pet photography" will bring up several pages of professional pet photographers advertising their wares.

    Function

    • People use pet photography for a variety of reasons. Some put the photos on their desks or walls. Others take--or have made--a preliminary photo, which is then used as a model for a painted portrait. If a dog breeder has a pedigreed dog for breeding, he has a professional picture made for advertising that dog. Kennels regularly use professional pet photography to advertise themselves and their services.

    Tips

    • For those who prefer to do their own pet photography, professionals have offered several tips. The New York Institute of Photography suggests the owner use what he knows about the pet. Conduct the photo shoot in the pet's favorite place to help keep the pet relaxed and cooperative. When composing a photo of the pet, imagine the story that would go along with it. Be prepared for lots of movement--pets like cats and dogs won't stay in one place for long, regardless of whether there's a camera present. Pets can always be encouraged (i.e., bribed) with treats, props and praise. And before starting, amateur photographers should study their pet for a day, to figure out what kind of shots will work best.

    Expert Insight

    • Star pet photographer Annie Leibovitz has some insider information on pet photography. Make sure the dogs are cleaned, groomed and moussed and have had their nails clipped. During the photo shoot, she recommends that the photographer talk, move around and offer lots of treats (her favorite is string cheese). Some dogs don't react well to some aspects of photography--Cocker spaniels, for instance, don't like being set up and get the shakes. But with enough patience, most dogs settle down to have their pictures taken.

    Considerations

    • It's always best to photograph animals in a natural setting. Having photos taken at home, rather than in a photography studio, will lead to more relaxed photos. Although pet clothes are fashionable, experts recommend photographing pets "undressed" to keep them comfortable and happy. Taking pictures of animals in comfortable positions makes for better photographs. Another highly successful approach is to keep the pet unaware of the camera, to capture their true expressions.