Get the Perfect Pet Portrait Without a Photographer

This perfect little pup looks like a very good girl, but one of the reasons she looks so great is the setting. To get a professional-looking shot, your background matters. Granted, you may not to be able use a room that matches your loved one as well as this, but try to make sure the area is clear of visual distractions and clutter.

If there's one thing that's sure get a dog's attention it's treats! (Did somebody say treats?) Some may call this bribery, and you know what: it is. Surely one or two or five extra treats to get your fur baby looking where you want them to is worth it. Use the treat off camera just like you would when you want them to sit or lie down. Quickly take your shot while he's patiently waiting, then tell him what a good boy he is.

Perhaps the number one pet photographer trick to having your buddy look at the camera is the squeaky toy. This works especially well if your pet is toy-motivated in general. Hold the toy in your non-camera hand just above camera itself and squeak or wiggle it to get his attention. If all goes well, you'll end up with a shot just like this.

Cat lovers, you know your darling felines are not the obedient creatures that dogs are. They do what they want to do when they want to do it. Because the off-camera toy trick may not work with them, try an on-camera one. Pick a wand toy with a feather attached to the end of it and drag it through the field of vision. Having a photographer's assistant and an attractive toy will help.