Our pets are a huge part of our lives and families, and they deserve to be documented. Who doesn’t see their pet sleeping adorably and want to take a photo?

Fortunately, we all have phones handy, but sometimes it can be a challenge to capture a decent photo of your pet, much less a great one. After all, pets are often quick to move, reluctant to cooperate, and often don’t pay attention to your repeated calls of their name.

We want to help you get better photos of your pet, so. we put together these five tips to help you capture the pet photos you want!

Take advantage of natural light

When it comes to taking photos on your own, one of the easiest ways to get good shots is to incorporate natural light. Whether you take your pet outside to play or just capture images of them near a window, natural light will make your photos brighter and avoid the red-eye that flash photography can cause. Using a flash can also startle your pet right out of whatever comfortable pose they were in, so use natural light whenever possible.

Get on their level

Photos taken of your pet from above can sometimes be cute and charming, but some of the best images are taken at your pet’s eye level. Don’t be afraid to get down on your knees or even on your stomach to get your camera eye-to-eye with your pet. Shooting from this angle will give your images a better background than just the floor.

Go where they’re comfortable

Instead of trying to pose your pet in an unnatural position, let them be themselves and express their unique personality for your photos. Take a few shots of your cat sitting in their favorite chair or looking at the window, or take your dog outside to capture images of them playing with a favorite toy. Whatever your pet spends their day doing, photograph them there where they’re most comfortable.

Be patient—and take lots of photos

Taking photos of your pet requires a lot of patience. Your furry friend may be too excited, and all your photos turn out blurry, but give them time, and they’ll relax. Just keep taking photos from different angles. The more photos you take, the better chance you have of getting some you love!

Surprise them

We don’t mean sneak up behind your pet and say “Boo!” But you can gently interrupt your pet during play by calling their name and, if you’re quick, capture their genuine expression as they turn to you. If you take a photo just as you get your pet’s attention, chances are they will have an alert expression. But even if your pet is a little startled, you may still get a fun photo of the surprise look on their face!

Capturing great photos of your pets can be a challenge, and if you want quality images of your furry friend, sometimes the best choice is to hire a professional. A professional pet portrait session is the perfect way to get images you can hang in your home, share with family and friends, and cherish for years to come as a reminder of your relationship with your pet.