Pet photography is an incredibly rewarding journey, allowing you to capture those unforgettable moments of your furry companions—the playful leaps, curious glances, and those soulful puppy eyes. Whether you’re a beginner pet photographer or looking to take your skills to the next level, improving your pet photography requires more than just snapping a few cute shots. It’s about learning the right techniques and tips that make those moments stand out.
As someone passionate about pet photography or wondering how to become a pet photographer, taking the right steps to improve your pet photography skills can help you better show their personality, edit the way you’ve been imagining, and create more purposeful, professional photos of pets.
In this blog, we’ll explore five essential ways to improve your pet photography—from hands-on practice and learning pet photography techniques to joining photography communities and finding the best resources for pet photography tips and tutorials.
1. Get out there and practice!
Here’s something we don’t often hear enough: practice makes better, not perfect.
No matter how many tips or tricks you read, nothing will improve your pet photography more than getting out there and actually doing it. Grab your camera, head outside, and start experimenting. Try shooting in different lighting conditions or backgrounds, and make sure you’re working with different types of dogs!
Hands on practice helps you find your groove stylistically while giving your technical skills a huge boost.
The thing is… you can’t stop there. It’s one thing to just take a thousand photos and call it a day. It’s something else entirely if you get home and analyse what works and what doesn’t. Or, better yet, ask someone you trust for honest feedback on what could be improved!
2. Join the Learning Journey
There’s only so much you can figure out on your own. If you’re serious about improving your pet photography and want some structured guidance to study from anywhere in the world and at your own pace, then the Learning Journey is the perfect next step.
It’s a complete educational platform, designed specifically for pet photographers. Imagine having a resource you can dip into whenever you need, knowing that every bit of content is designed to help you grow. From exclusive live Q&A sessions to downloadable guides, the Learning Journey is packed with everything you need to level up.
There’s an amazing Community for asking questions, getting feedback, and even taking part in monthly challenges!
Curious? Click here to check out the Learning Journey and start learning today.
3. Join local photography groups or photo walks
Photography can feel a bit solitary at times, but it doesn’t have to be. By joining a local photography group or going on photo walks, you’ll meet people who share your passion.
Plus, there’s something really special about bouncing ideas off fellow photographers, getting instant (and varied) feedback, and seeing how others approach their craft.
Photo walks in particular are a total a game changer. They’ll force you to get out of your comfort zone, try new angles, and shoot in new locations you probably wouldn’t have considered before. Plus it’s always nice to be around people who understand the struggle of getting a model to hold still for that one perfect shot.
We’ve had several members of the Learning Journey meet up and head into new forests, towns and cities to take photos together! I LOVE seeing people organise their meetups via our Community! Makes me feel all warm ‘n fuzzy.
4. Book a Live Workshop or 1:1 lesson
The most effective way to improve your pet photography is by immersing yourself in a live workshop or 1:1 lesson.
There’s something about learning through a tailored conversation, in real time, that makes things really click.
In a live workshop, you’ll also have the opportunity to practice what you’re learning on the spot, ask questions as they arise, and receive instant feedback. Plus, it’s a chance to meet likeminded pet photographers in some magical locations (like my latest jaunt to Switzerland) and get inspired by what others are creating.
What’s the difference between the two, you may ask?
Well, Workshops are hands-on and delivered in a group, while 1:1 lessons offer even more personalised support, allowing me to focus on you directly.
Want to know more? Click here to explore upcoming workshops or book a 1:1 session.
5. Find free resources... but don't get overwhelmed!
There’s loads of free resources out there, from blogs like mine to YouTube channels, Instagram tutorials and more. The beauty of the internet is that there’s never a shortage of places to turn when you need advice… but there’s a catch.
Don’t get overwhelmed!
It’s so easy to dive down a rabbit hole and spend hours absorbing information and becoming more lost than you were at the beginning. Here’s my advice: choose a couple of trusted sources that resonate with your style and stick with them. Bonus points if one of those sources is me… just kidding!
Follow pet photographers who inspire you, watch a few videos on specific topics you’re curious about, and use these resources as a bonus to your hands on practice.
Remember, learning photography should be fun, not overwhelming. Use free resources to inspire you, but don’t feel pressured to follow every trend or watch every tutorial.
Improve your pet photography the right way...
So, here’s the thing:
Improving your pet photography isn’t about fancy gear or spending endless hours editing. It’s more about staying curious, getting A LOT of practice, and keeping your creativity at the core of everything.
Remember, you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to help you every step of the way, whether through my blog, email tips, workshops, 1:1 lessons, or the Learning Journey community. So, let’s work together to capture those beautiful moments to treasure forever.
Until next time, keep shooting… and have some fun with it! 🐾
