I truly enjoy photographing dogs moving. That's why I've created this photo series called Fast and Furry.
Dogs are always on the move. The key is freezing that movement, capturing that moment of utter joy. When dogs are moving fast, you often can't see their expressions, but with a carefully taken photo, you can stop the action, grab that expression, that emotion, that look in their eyes that says "WooHoo!", which in turn makes us love them all the more.
Action photos are the most difficult to capture; you need the correct light, the correct camera settings, a good camera angle, a good location and a willing dog. Of course, fast camera gear with speedy auto focus make things far easier.
Dogs often move very erratically and capturing focus (specifically on their eyes) can be a challenge. Maybe that's why I love these types of photos so much because they can be elusive to capture and there's a certain euphoria when you get it just right.
There are a variety of action photo types, but the ones I like best are when all feet are off the ground as if they are flying. Not all dogs naturally have this type of leap, so sometimes I introduce a log for them to jump over. Don't these dogs just look happy?
Some tips for capturing that elusive action photo:
- Find the light. Stay out of the direct sun, but don't set yourself up in too dark of a location (ie. deep in the canopy of a forest)
- Make sure your shutter speed is at least 1/1000 second (that mobile phone isn't likely to get you what you want)
- Position yourself down low (laying on the ground is ideal)
- Set your camera to continuous shooting
- Focus on the eyes (I use spot focus)
- It's easiest if you have assistants to hold and call the dog, so they stay in a straight line (the person calling the dog should be behind you to get the best chance that they run right at you)
- Practice, Practice, Practice
Are you ready for your Fast and Furry Photo Session?
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