How to Take Better Photos of Your Pets
Every pet owner wants beautiful photos of their furry companion, but pets don’t always sit still for the camera. Whether you’re photographing a playful puppy, a sleepy cat, or a curious bunny, getting that perfect shot takes patience, timing, and an understanding of light.
As a professional pet photographer in San Diego, I’ve seen it all: wiggly dogs, shy cats, even birds that refuse to face the camera. The good news is that with the right approach, you can take photos that look natural, emotional, and full of personality. Here’s how to capture your pet’s story like a pro.
1. Use Natural Light
Natural light is every photographer’s secret weapon. It softens fur texture, brings out color, and gives life to your pet’s eyes. Step near a large window or head outdoors early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and golden.
Avoid harsh midday light, which can cause strong shadows or make light-colored fur appear dull. Indoors, turn off overhead lighting and use indirect light from a window for soft contrast.
At Kat De Laet Portraits, I plan every session around light, whether it’s glowing San Diego sunsets or gentle light filtering through a client’s home, because great lighting tells half the story.
2. Get Down to Their Level
The easiest way to improve your pet photos instantly is to change your perspective. Crouch, kneel, or lie down to meet your pet’s eyes. Shooting from their level creates intimacy and helps viewers connect emotionally.
For small dogs and cats, try resting your camera on the floor. For bigger dogs, a knee-level angle usually works best. This is a professional trick I use in every portrait session because it instantly makes photos feel more personal and engaging.
3. Focus on the Eyes
Your pet’s eyes are the heart of the photo. Make sure they’re sharp and well-lit. A small reflection of light, called a catchlight, adds depth and emotion.
If you’re using a phone, tap on the eyes before taking the photo to set focus. With a camera, use a single autofocus point and aim for the closest eye. In my San Diego studio and on-location sessions, I always build lighting setups that highlight the eyes first because that’s where connection lives.
4. Capture Personality, Not Poses
Perfect poses don’t matter. What matters is energy, expression, and character. Try photographing your dog mid-yawn, your cat stretching, or your rabbit twitching its nose. Those unscripted moments tell the truest stories.
During sessions at Kat De Laet Portraits, I use games, sounds, and treats to encourage natural behavior. Whether your dog is shy or playful, there’s always a moment worth capturing.
5. Use Treats and Toys Wisely
A favorite toy or a small treat can bring out your pet’s personality. Hold it near the camera or have someone stand behind you to draw their attention. Use high-value rewards like bits of chicken or cheese, small enough that they stay focused but not too distracted.
This is the same method I use professionally: quick rewards, calm tone, and lots of praise. It keeps pets engaged while letting their true personality shine through.
6. Choose the Right Background
A clean background makes your pet stand out. Look for simple spaces such as a patch of grass, a sandy beach, or a neutral wall. Remove clutter like cables or toys before shooting indoors.
In San Diego, I often recommend coastal spots like Coronado Beach, Balboa Park, or La Jolla Shores because the soft colors and open light create timeless portraits.
7. Keep Sessions Short and Fun
Your pet will sense your mood. Stay patient, laugh, and give breaks. Short bursts of attention work best, around five to ten minutes at a time.
The goal isn’t perfection; it’s capturing the personality you love every day. Sometimes the messy, silly moments end up being the photos you cherish most.
8. When to Hire a Professional
If you want something beyond casual snapshots, something timeless and beautifully printed, hiring a professional makes all the difference.
At Kat De Laet Portraits, I create calm, storybook-style sessions that highlight the bond between pets and their people. From helping you choose locations around San Diego to designing artwork for your walls, every detail is handled for you.
Professional photography isn’t about posing your pet; it’s about preserving their story.
Ready to Capture Your Pet’s Story?
Start with natural light, a clean background, and lots of patience.
If you’d like help creating portraits that feel like art, I’d love to work with you.
Visit Kat De Laet Portraits, your San Diego pet photographer, to plan a session that celebrates your pet’s personality, from wagging tails to quiet glances.
