TAKING PAWFECT PICTUREs

By the muttly crew

Want to snap a pawesome photo of your pooch? On FRR Show 53, we interviewed Dogs I Meet Chief Storyteller Mindy Dutka. She is a professional photographer based in Boston. She spreads awareness for dogs in need through her work in the U.S. and abroad. She shared some helpful tips for capturing pets including more difficult shots with furry and hairy models who deal with "black dog syndrome." This means they generally have a harder time getting adopted because of their photos. Since their faces are darker, their eyes blend in and many times we don't see all the beautiful details in the picture. Mindy says bad photos are a major reason for this. #DONTBEABREEDIST

Here are Mindy’s pawesome pointers:

FOR BLACK DOGS:

• Lighting is everything. Dark fur absorbs light. The light source should be on the dog's face and eyes.

• The best time to photograph is early in the morning and an hour before sunset. Avoid the midday day harsh sun.

• Be careful about the background. Don't use something that looks busy. The dog should remain the star of the photo. Lighter colors like yellow, light blue, or green can be good.

• Use portrait mode so the dog is clear and the background is blurry.

FOR ALL DOGS:

• Get down to their eye level. Lower yourself and don't just lean down.

• Put the camera's focus point on the dog's eyes. If you have an iPhone, get the box to focus on the dog's eyes.

• Pay attention to the background. It shouldn't be busy or look like things are coming out of the dog's head. If you can't move the background, move yourself.

• Use a squeaker. Hold it so the dog can't see it. Wait until you are ready to hit the shutter or smartphone button. You may even get the adorable head tilt. Only squeak it once. Use it sparingly. Once dogs hear the same sounds repeatedly they become ineffective.