How to Photograph Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs (cavies) make great models for photography. When they are startled or faced with a new situation, they stay completely still until they are satisfied there is no danger. This gives you a lot of time to take a lot of snapshots. You can even (sometimes) pose the guinea pig inside a cup, miniature sleigh or toy car. In this article, we'll concentrate more on taking portraits of your guinea pigs.

Things You'll Need

  • Guinea pigs
  • Background material (like an old sheet)
  • Props (optional)
  • Treats for guinea pigs
  • 35mm camera with zoom function or zoom lens
  • 200 speed film (or higher)
  • Portable light or lamp (optional)
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Instructions

  1. Strike a Pose

    • 1

      Choose a backdrop that is a contrasting color to your guinea pig. The backdrop could be old sheets, beach towels or even a wall. You want the color to help make your guinea pig stand out.

    • 2

      Choose an indoor location for the session. It should have natural light coming from a window, or lighting you can control. Pick out props--such as tiny hats or fake money or flowers--if you want to include them with your guinea pig.

    • 3

      Load film into your camera (if a film camera) and check the lighting in the room. Note where the light is coming from. Ideally, you want light at your back and a bit to both sides to cross-light your guinea pig.

    • 4

      Get down on the floor and set up the shot with everything in place before you bring in the guinea pigs. You want to take the shots as quickly as possible, or your models will get bored and wander away.

    • 5

      Bring in the guinea pigs. Arrange props, if necessary. The guinea pigs will instinctively stay still for at least a few minutes. A special treat encourages them to stay in place.

    • 6

      Adjust the zoom focus or hit the zoom function button so your guinea pig fills the frame.

    • 7

      Move around as you take pictures from a variety of angles. Use up a whole roll of film. Make silly noises if that gets the guinea pig to look at you.

    • 8

      Praise your piggies and put them back into their homes with treats.