It’s fun to take photos of a pet—but it’s not always easy. Just when you’re about to take the perfect photo, your dog or cat suddenly decides they’ve had enough! 

Here are some tips for improving your pet photography skills.

• Use natural light. If you take a photo in a dark room, the flash on your camera might go off. This can make many pets nervous. So take your photos outdoors or in a bright room.
• Talk sweetly to your pet. When you’re taking photos, using a sweet tone of voice will make your pet more likely to cooperate with you. Remember—be kind and gentle with pets at all times.
• Use treats. Treats or toys can help get your pet’s attention. For example, if you want your dog to look at the camera, hold a treat right next to it. Your dog will stare at the treat, but it will look like the dog is gazing at you! Just be sure to reward your pet with that treat after you take the photo.
• Have someone help you. You may need someone to hold that special treat or toy while you take the photo.
• Try getting down to your pet’s level. Crouch down so you are at the same level as your pet’s eyes. A pet’s eyes can show its personality.
• Take photos from different angles. Take a few photos so you have a better chance of capturing what you want.
• Try taking candid photos. Candid photos aren’t posed. They simply capture whatever is happening in the moment, and pets have amazing moments all the time! Is your dog playing catch? Is your cat swatting at a toy? Is your hamster stuffing food into its cheeks? Some of the best pet photos are captured when pets are just living their best lives. So have your camera ready!