Dogs and Their People: Capture their unique relationship

Learn how to capture the emotional bonds between dogs and their people!

In this Safari, you will learn to photograph the strong and often emotional bonds between dogs and their people. You will use at least two model dogs and their people in the beautiful Bon Air Rose Garden in Arlington, VA. (https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Locations/Parks/Bon-Air-Park). Photographing in the early morning light will give you the opportunity to practice testing your portraiture camera settings in the soft light. You will test as well as learn skills in organizing “The Models.”

First, you will learn and practice composition and lighting of a fantastic dog portrait using the dog’s full body (don’t forget those tails and paws!), head and shoulders, and close portraits of the head– all the while focusing on the dog’s eyes. The dog’s personality will shine through as you use treats and noisemakers and the owner’s encouragement.

Next, you will move on to learn and practice portraits that capture hilarious and meaningful moments with dogs and their people. You will experiment with poses like The Cuddle, Look Up, Kisses, My Formal Portrait, Playtime, Strolling Together, Over the Shoulder, and more.

To capture the best images, we will put dogs and people in the shade or shaded by a reflector (provided by the instructor). For the best angles and perspective, we will get to the dog’s level on the ground and above them using a small stepladder (provided by the instructor). For safety reasons, all dogs will be leashed; the leashes can be removed in post-processing.

What to Bring

• Camera
  
• Lenses that cover 24-70mm and/or 70-200mm range
• Extra memory cards
• Extra charged battery
• Any noise-makers like whistles, kazoos, and/or smartphone app: Hunt Pro – Calls (IOS)
• High-quality treats for the dogs
• Water
• Weather appropriate clothing

Where to Meet

Meet under the USA flag post. Bon Air Rose Garden parking lot is at Lexington St and Wilson Blvd in Arlington, VA. Directions: