Your pets can make great photographic subjects. They are often willing and extremely photogenic! They are often cute and cuddly and never camera shy! But take your time to get the right shots.

- get your pet active – they exude energy and do daft things – perfect for photography

- catch the cute expression – the “ahhhhhhh” factor always wins!

- use props if you need to – toys, sticks, string – try to interest your pet

- action shots work well – put your pet to work

- don’t shoot immediately after your pet has slept …..

...... or after it has had a heavy meal

- use a fast shutter speed to freeze movement (use flash if necessary)

- try different angles – full face, profiles, angled up and down

- have pet food at hand – bribery always works

- move back to show the immediate environment; move in to show individual features

- be patient – watch your pet and wait for the right moment

- have a friend to help – they can distract and interest your pet

- a sharp noise (e.g. from a clap or a squeaky toy) will grab immediate attention (and is certain to get a cute shot)

- de-clutter the background – let your images focus on your pet

Be aware that pets do not always do as they are told or as we would wish! Sometimes you have to be a bit patient and to wait for the right moment. If your pet is uncooperative, then wait until a more opportune time
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Cats and dogs are obvious subjects for photography. Don’t forget other pets – snakes, rabbits, hamsters, tortoises – can make great images too. Use your imagination.