Abi Coop
Melissa Richard
Kristen Ryan
Do you want to learn how to creatively photograph your dogs? Regina Boston is going to show you how!
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” ~ Josh Billings
These words are so true! There is something special about the unconditional love a dog gives that just warms my heart. My husband and I have seven kids, two dogs, and a gecko. Two of our seven children are grown and have left the house. Because of this, I keep telling my husband that every time a child graduates, we need to get a puppy. He’s not too fond of that idea, but I think it’s brilliant. Wouldn’t it be glorious to have a house full of dogs that are always loving and thankful to have you around? The joy that they bring and express is why I love to creatively photograph my dogs.
Lensbaby Velvet85 / ISO 500 / F/4 / 1/1600sec
When photographing my dogs, I prefer to use two methods – posed portraits or capturing the moment. Both methods help to capture your dog’s personality. I have one dog that used to be camera shy, so much so, that each time I raised the camera he would turn his head away from me and point it towards the ground. I thought to myself, really?! How is it possible as a photographer to have a pup that is camera shy! That’s when I started thinking of different ways to capture him in the moment, whether it would be him standing at the back door to go outside or napping in his bed.
Lensbaby Twist 60 + Composer Pro II / ISO 160 / F/2.8 / 1/1000sec
Lensbaby Sol45 / ISO 320 / F/3.5 /1/125sec
Lensbaby Edge 35 + Composer Pro II / F/4 / 1/1600sec
Lensbaby Velvet56 ISO 1250 F/4 1/320sec
Lensbaby Sweet50 + Composer Pro II ISO 3200 F/4 1/500sec
Lensbaby Edge 35 + Composer Pro II / ISO 1250 / F/4 /1/30sec
Lensbaby Edge 35 + Composer Pro II / F/4 / 1/60sec
Lensbaby Sol45 / ISO 640 / F/3.5 / 1/640sec
Fearless Photoshop
Mastering Skin Tones
Composition for Storytellers
Natural Light for Storytellers
Lens: Canon 85mm / ISO 160 / F/2 / 1/1250sec
Assistance:
I request the help of either my kids or my husband to get the dogs to cooperate. Though, any willing friend or family member will work. I will ask my assistant to stand behind me so they can make noises to help keep their attention. However, if your dog is well trained, an assistant might not be needed. Unfortunately, I need an assistant because mine are not well trained.
Treats:
We have used little treats or large milk bones iced with peanut butter to get the dogs to participate. These are our dogs favorite treats. I’ll have my assistant hold the treat in the direction I want the dog to look to get his attention. Can your dog catch a treat if you toss it to them? Have your helper toss the treat in the air and catch them in mid-air! Perhaps they have a favorite bone to chew on that can help them stay in one spot.
Lens: Lensbaby Sol45 ISO 400 F/3.5 1/200sec
Location:
First, decide your shooting location so you can plan ahead. Your ideal location can be within your home or outside, depending on what you are trying to capture. Posed portraits work best when a dog knows their surroundings, are comfortable, and are relaxed. When your dog is relaxed, they will trust you and their surroundings. Trust is a key componant to capturing great photographs of your dogs. If they trust their environment they will be more willing to pose proudly. Our girl is the queen of posing! Though, I think she just really likes the direct attention.
Lens: Lensbaby Sol45 / ISO 500 / F/3.5 / 1/320sec
Lens: Lensbaby Sol45 / ISO 320 / F/3.5 / 1/1250sec
Lens: Lensbaby Sol45 / ISO 320 / F/3.5 / 1/1250sec
We have such a small amount of time with our beloved pets, so capturing them in these moments helps to ensure that the memories of our four-legged friends live well beyond the time they graced us. We may take them in as pets…but they become family and steal our hearts!
If you’re on Instagram, you should check out our dog loop #itsadogslifeloop . Trust me when I say, it will add a smile to your day! Do you have questions about documenting your pup or Lensbaby Lenses? Send me a message!
Lens: Canon 35mm / ISO 400 / F/3.2 / 1/250sec
About Regina:
Regina Boston of RMB Photography is a family, nature, and macro photographer from Maryland. A wife, mother of 7 children, 1 grandson, and 2 dogs. She captures subjects as they are, helping people notice small beautiful details in the world around us. Regina is also a Lensbaby Ambassador and she is happy to help you decide which Lensbaby is best for you! Message her through social media (listed below) if you have any questions!
Regina’s Gear: