Petsway is a family-owned Springfield MO company operating 4 Pet Supplies Plus franchises in Springfield and Nixa.

Halloween & Fall Pet Photography Tips

Pet PhotographyFall is a popular time for pet photography. With the comfortable temperatures, changing leaves and fun Halloween costumes, it’s a great time to capture some photos of your furry pal. Taking photographs of pets can be a challenge, but the reward of having a great photo of your four-legged family member is well worth it. Anyone can take a great Autumn-inspired photo of their pet—it just takes a little patience and know-how. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  • First and foremost, be patient and have fun taking the photos. If you feel nervous or stressed that the photos won’t turn out, then they probably won’t! Your pet is very sensitive to your feelings and won’t be able to relax and enjoy the experience if you aren’t.
  • Work within your pet’s “comfort zone”. If your cat does not typically go outdoors, then avoid trying to take him or her outside for colorful fall photos. Use your cat’s favorite spot to your advantage. For example, if a favorite lounging spot is a bedroom window, bring in some colorful pumpkins and fall flowers to sit near your cat to tie in the warm colors of fall. The same goes for dogs; if your dog loves to chase balls at the park or in your backyard…work with their favorite places as you take their photo. By going to where they love to be, your pet will look more relaxed and natural.
  • Part of the fun of fall is dressing up our pets in funny and adorable Halloween costumes. When photographing your pet in costume, it’s best to let him have a little time to get used to the costume before getting the camera out. Let him sniff and investigate it, then try on one piece of the costume at a time. Make any needed adjustments for your pet’s comfort and then start snapping those adorable photos. For pets who don’t enjoy a full costume, a festive collar is a great alternative.
  • Always consider your pet’s safety during your photo session. If taking the photos in a public place where your pet needs to remain on a leash—get creative! Choose a leash in a fun fall color or pattern or coordinate your leash with their costume if they are dressed for Halloween. When selecting props, be sure to choose non-toxic fall foliage and flowers…and keep the Halloween candies out of reach!
  • Get on their level. While our pets are adorable from every angle, a photograph of them is generally more flattering when taken from their eye level. Get down on the floor, or have your pet perch on an elevated surface such as a chair or ottoman.
  • Use a favorite toy or treat to get your pet in position. Once you have their attention, use a variety of noisemakers to keep them looking your way while you get the shot. Be sure that the noises you use are loud enough to pique your pets’ curiosity, but not so loud that it frightens them.
  • Be sure to snap a few shots of your pet just being himself. While posed shots are great, someday when you look back, you’ll also want to remember the funny things he liked to do and play with. To add some seasonal flair to your photos, pick up a few fall-themed toys that your pet can toss around for some happy, candid shots.

Have fun experimenting with these tips, and don’t be afraid to take lots of photos to get that one special shot that shows off your pet’s unique personality. A great photo of your pet is something you will treasure for a lifetime.

by April Turner

Pet Photographer, UTurn Studios