If you’re a pet owner, chances are that you take lots and lots of photos of your furry family member.

But, as all pet owners know, these creatures are unpredictable, making it hard to get the best picture.  So here are some suggestions to help you get the best possible photo of your pet! 

Go where the light is best. Try not to take photos of your pet in dark rooms or when it’s very overcast outside. Bright, diffused, light is the best for a flattering pet portrait. So before you take out your camera, look at your subject’s environment and figure out where the best light is — then move to that spot.  

Try to get their personality.  Ask yourself what is unique about your pet and try to capture their one-of-a-kind character on camera. Take pictures of your pet when they are in their preferred spot, or when they’re enjoying a much-loved pastime — whether that’s snoozing on the couch or catching a ball.

Keep things quiet. There is no quicker way to confuse a dog or startle a cat than to repeat loud commands at them. Try communicating with animals nonverbally: Use hand signals, or point to invite them where you’d like them to sit. If you do need to say ’sit’, say it quietly and calmly, and only once or twice.

Move slowly. Unless you are skilled at documentary-style photography with a moving subject, try to move slowly around your pets while taking pictures of them. Cats are prone to either radically changing their expressions at slight movements or leaving the scene altogether. This can also be true of dogs in a sit or lay/stay position.

Motivate your model.  Every animal needs to have some motivation to pay attention to you during the photo shoot. Determine what motivates them and provide it to them while you’re taking pictures. For dogs, it may be treats or toys or simply giving them love and attention. For cats, it may be their favorite toy, a cardboard box, or a treat. Be creative when it comes to ‘rewarding’ your models; they will reward you with great shots and be more cooperative, too.