Photography

Behind the scenes looks aren’t always glamorous – but they are important, and always fun to see.

August 27th, 2018 my sweet, dorky, lovable German Shepherd, Emma, turned 8 years old and we had a blast! This year I decided to do a photoshoot with her along with her annual routine of treats, toys, walks, and birthday chicken dinner.

It was challenging. Treats were crucial. Commands were not always followed. Lots of laughing. Lots of hugs and compliments. It was amazing.

I recruited a dear friend of mine who had come over for tea and to wish Emma a happy birthday as my assistant and we went to my local Dollar Tree for some supplies – birthday headbands, a tassel garland, a “Hollywood” cardboard photo frame, and party blowouts, totaling to $4.08. Awesome.

Next, I set up my backdrop stand, 2 ProMaster strobes with an umbrella diffuser on each one, and my backdrop. By backdrop, I mean two 48 in. x 84 in. curtains, that I found on sale for $10 each, at my local Big Lots, (I swear!) right in my living room. I don’t need a big fancy studio to get professional shots done and neither do you!

I set the lights, my camera settings, took a few photos and then handed over my camera to my sweet friend so that I could jump into some shots. Here are some RAW, out of the camera, untouched photos of the actual struggle and process of pet photography, the set up, and the fun that we had.

We finished up the photoshoot, sang happy birthday, gave Emma her chicken, and as my friend drove home and Emma went to take a nap, I eagerly jumped on the computer to go through the photos and do a little photoshop magic!

Here’s a quick “before and after” Photoshop! Using just the crop and cloning tools, along with some exposure adjustments in Camera Raw.

Working on a budget will 100% require you to do more work, develop your skills in post production, and challenge you creatively, but it can be done – and with great results!

Emma and I believe in you.