4 quick tricks for getting great Paw-traits

We're right in the middle of our Paw-traits Modeling Contest. For those of you who don't know much about it, it's Lexington's 2nd Annual Dog Modeling Contest, all to raise funds for the National Canine Cancer Foundation. It is hosted by ourselves and PetSuites of Lexington and it runs all the way through March 31st! To learn more about it Watch This Video, Read This, and call us at 859.277.6671.

Well, as we've been photographing all these dogs, we've noticed a few things that may help when you want to snap a great photo of your own furry friend.

1. Save the play for after the photos.

Your dog likes you...I mean, really likes you! And he wants nothing more than to be in your lap. And if you engage this highly loving creature in some physical play before you try and get pictures chances are you wont get him to stay still long enough to snap the photo. So muster up your own self-control and save the rough housing until after your photo session is done.

2. Keep treats handy.

Dogs respond incredibly well to extrinsic motivation (a.k.a. bribery). So keep a handful of treats available to bribe your dog with - chances are she'll stay still if she knows she's getting something for it. The thing you have to remember then is, make sure you actually reward your dog for her good behavior! If you don't she won't have any reason to keep sitting. WARNING! If you keep treats in your pocket so your dog won't see them, just make sure she doesn't smell them out, or you're done for! And whatever you do, DO NOT bring out her favorite ball or toy!!! (See trick #1)

3. Play with camera angles.

Dogs don't photograph the same way as people; they look great from some really funny angles and terrible from others. Use a variety of angles and focal lengths when photographing your furry friend and see what works and what doesn't. Keep in mind that the most classic dog images from the art world are often with the dog looking off to one side.

4. Pay extra special attention to the background!

It's ALWAYS crucial to watch your backgrounds in portrait photography, but with dogs you should take extra care because their fur will blend in to the background if it's similar in color. Try and choose a background with vibrant color that isn't found in the dogs fur, or against the opposite light/dark background from your dog's fur (e.g. if your dog is black, try a white or light colored background - NOT black!)

Above all else, have FUN! And make sure your dog has fun too! After all - they're worth it! Enjoy your adventures!