The Art of Dog Photography
When I got my first professional camera in 2014, I didn't realize there was so much to learn about photography and then adding the element of a dog and focusing on dog photography really complicated matters. I had a lot to learn. At the time, I had no idea there was so much to learn. I still have a lot to learn and while there are certainly peaks and valleys, I am loving every minute of it.
The Art of Dog Photography is just that. To me, it is art. As a new photographer and focusing on all things dog with my photography, I am still trying to find my style. Kaylee Greer of Dog Breath Photography has that down. I immediately know one of her images when I see it. She creates art. Eventually I'll get to the point where I feel like I'm creating art and sometimes I feel like I am now but not always. But I Am Getting There and That Makes Me Happy. That brings me to an article I read this morning.
Recently I needed to find dog models to photograph at local breweries. I put out a model call on Instagram and @dobiesisters volunteered. I remember before posting the model call that I was nervous I'd only hear crickets but then THIS HAPPENED and it happened because I took a risk.
I subscribe to the Digital Photography School email list. The article this morning is titled How to Be Different and Make Your Photography Unique. The 2nd point in the article resonated with me: Don't Be Afraid of People Not Liking Your Work." Well heck, sometimes I'm not satisfied with my own work but there are other times that I feel really good about a photo I've taken. However I still have the doubt of whether or not others will feel the same.
Learning to take risks with my photography and then putting it out there is something I need to continue to work on and be more comfortable with if I am going to continue to grow as a dog photographer. It is uncomfortable at times but the rewards can be amazing. I'm not sure if people know it or not but the simplest comment or suggestion on one of my Instagram posts means the world to me. I read every single one.
I love this dog. Her name is Tess and she's 11. She is a dog walking client of mine and her mom asked me to take photos of her. As soon as Tess saw me on the ground, she had to come over and say hi. She loves to be pet and if I was on the ground, that was an open invitation, right? There is something about this photo that I love. Perhaps it is the look on her face coupled with the fact that she is excited and coming over to see me. But, there is something about this photo that I'm unsure about- is it the sun peeking over the trees casting the haze, is it her front left paw? I'm not sure but I love this photo regardless. I debated showing it to Tess's mom but when my mom saw it she gasped with delight. That answered that question. :) I showed it to Tess's mom.
I'm willing to take the risk so I can be better. Are you taking any risks today? My advice for this weekend: Do Things That Make You Happy. I will and I can't wait to share those photos.... stay tuned. :)