Capturing Your Dogs Radiance: Natural Light Photography

As a photographer, I find that I can sometimes be fascinated with the way light hits a certain item. In doing landscapes , it might be how the light hits the crystalline formations of ice, or how it penetrates through a thick clump of trees to light a path in the forest. Lights ever-changing qualities can transform a scene. Let’s explore some of the ways that I utilize light to capture images of your dog.

Sunbeams floating through the window

On a lazy Sunday morning around this time of year, the sun hits the small living room window right around the same time that Declan is getting ready for his morning snooze. I love watching Declan settle down for this snooze right in the patch of light. i love the depth of shadow versus the light adding dimension to the image. I have rare opportunities to capture this, as Declan will usually wake up as soon as I move the grab the camera.

At the shelter, Calvin was bathed with light from the front window to illuminate his precious face.

Embracing Direct sunlight

Clients can sometimes be concerned when the day is not sunny, being afraid it will negatively affect the images. Direct sunlight can actually be a challenge for photography as it can create harsh shadows. Utilizing shadows creatively can add a touch of drama or illuminate unique features or personality of your dog.

black and white dog in direct sunlight Syracuse Ny
black and white dog in direct sunlight Syracuse Ny

Subtle Indirect Light

This type of light is generally found in shaded areas, or on overcast days. This indirect light eliminates harsh shadows and evenly illuminates your dogs features, allowing their colors and textures to shine through. indirect light can add a touch of tranquility and bring out the soulful qualities in your dog’s eyes.

Golden Light

This is the magical light that is shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. This is an exquisite light for dog photography. The sun will bathe the whole surroundings with a warm glow. The low angle of the sun creates long, soft shadows adding depth and dimension. Using the golden light as a backdrop to your dog creates a golden background for your pup. Utilizing the direct glow of the sun, bathes the dog in a golden hue.

Sunlight is an incredible tool that can be utilized in different ways to creatively capture images of your dog. Whether it is from window light, direct light, indirect light of golden light, each lighting condition can create charming images.

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It’s an International circle!

Join the fun! This group of International Professional Pet Photographers bring you information on our weekly topics. While we focus on one broad subject, we may each have a different spin on it or provide you with additional information from our world of pet photography. Follow the next link to view how the next amazing photographer tackles this weeks challenge.  Follow each link at the end of each blog until you return to me. Then you have successfully completed our blog circle. Enjoy!

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Massachusetts dog photographer Darlene Woodward shares a recent photo session at Marblehead Lighthouse.



Boston James!

Boston James is 2 years old and this special guy is very smart, eager to please and loves to play with toys. He is looking for a home that can give him the daily exercise he needs, and then won’t mind when he cuddles on the couch with you at night. A cat free home without small kids is best for Boston James. 

Please contact Friends of Second Chance.

Friends of Second Chance Canine Adoption Shelter
6660 E. Seneca Turnpike
Jamesville, NY 13078
315-435-5584
https://www.jamesvillesecondchance.com


Capture your journey with your pet. Nancy Kieffer is a pet and nature photographer serving  Central New York, the Adirondacks and Beyond.  Capture how you share your life with your pet! It may be a vacation adventure or curled up on the couch. Travel assignments welcomed.

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Lessons from a Senior Dog

Nancy Kieffer

Working as a pet photographer as well as volunteering in a rescue, I have been blessed with getting to know a number of senior dogs. While I lost my Midnight at a young age, I was very fortunate to have Shamus with me for many years. Shamus was my clown, but boy did he know how to live! His wisdom grew as the years pressed on. I learned that each day spent with my senior dog was a lesson on the importance of living in the present, cherishing our bond and embracing our everlasting friendship.