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How to Make a Backdrop for Dog Photos

Good photography isn̵7;t a simple task, and taking pictures of pets adds another layer of difficulty to the job. Dogs can be especially challenging, since even well-trained dogs tend to wiggle and move at inopportune times. Setting up a backdrop will help put your subject into focus and produce a crisp, clear picture of even the most stubborn canine subject.

Things You'll Need

Colored sheet
Push pins
Dog-themed decorative items

Instructions

- 1
  Select a sheet that complements the colors of your subject. Dark blue or black sheets highlight dogs with white, golden or red base colors. Light blue, green or lavender sheets accent dark-colored dogs. White sheets should be avoided as they can make your subject look pale and washed-out. Stick with solid-colored sheets, as patterned backdrops may draw attention away from the dog.
- 2
  Pick a wall inside your home or studio free of pictures and other obstructions. A backdrop space of 4 feet wide by 4 feet tall is large enough for small breeds such as Chihuahuas and toy poodles, although larger breeds need at least double that much space.
- 3
  Ask a helper to hold one corner of the sheet as high up on the wall as possible, and tack it to the wall with push pins. Stretch the sheet out flat against the wall, pinning it down every 6 inches to keep it from slipping during the photo session. Push the bottom of the sheet against the floor at the base of the wall.
- 4
  Stage the backdrop area with dog-themed items such as toys or treats. Place the dog in the middle of the backdrop, and add a toy or two on each side of the dog. Hold a treat in your hand to get the dog̵7;s attention, snap the photo and reward her with the treat for sitting still.

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