Sometimes what appears to be a roadblock turns out to be a purpose-finding detour. Such is the case with Emily Lim, a baker, and Catherine Li, a photographer, whose plans were derailed when Covid-19 hit.

“When Covid first started, we both thought it wouldn’t last years—a couple weeks off school and work and that would be it,” says Li.

Weeks, however, turned into months. Lim was permanently let go from her position as a baker, and Li was freshly graduated from photography school. “We found ourselves with lots of free time, so we did what many other people in their 20s did during the pandemic—baked sourdough, played Animal Crossing, and got a puppy, Cappuccino.”

They began visiting a nearby park with a neighbourhood dog meetup. Taking photos of the dogs and seeing the joy it sparked in their owners led them down an unanticipated path: starting a pet photography studio, Kapture 9 Studios. So far, they’re off to an incredible start—one of their dog portraits graces this issue’s cover.

“We wanted to help pet owners capture their pet’s personality and give them a lasting memory,” says Lim. “We try to give all our clients a unique and fun experience.” 

* To book a session, go to kapture9studios.com. They welcome all species of pets. Find them on Instagram and Facebook at @kapture9studios.

 

Kapture 9’s Tips for Better Dog Photos

Dog lying down looking at camera

1. Get down to your pet’s level

We spend most of our time looking down toward our dogs, so try getting low. You’ll be surprised by how different your pet looks!

Dog catching food in front of camera

2. Pay your pet—and don’t be cheap!

Pet parents are often shocked with how many treats we give out during a shoot, but your pet is doing hard work! Don’t expect your dog to do 10 commands for one treat and be cooperative. It’s important to know how your pet likes to be paid—some like food and some like play. Find out what your dog’s preference is, and reward heavily. You might find a more attentive dog!

Dog in motion in front of camera

3. Add some motion

As long as you have enough light, your smart phone should be able to handle taking some action shots of your pup! Adding some movement can make for a more interesting shot. Photos are a great time to show off your dog’s tricks. You can get some hilarious faces from treat catching [toss some kibble and snap away], but having your pup strut their stuff can make for some adorable photos, too.

Dog wearing glasses accessories in front of camera

4. Accessorize

Add in some bows, bandanas, hats, or toys to add personality to your photos.

Dog looking at camera

5. Play with space

Don’t feel confined to centering your pet or following the rule of thirds. Play around with cropping; filling the frame or having a ton of background can make for a more interesting photograph!

Dogs having fun eating cake

6. Have fun

Don’t stress out about getting the perfect shot! Take lots of photos and have fun with it! Make sure your dog is having fun, too. Modelling is hard work. Sometimes they’re willing to show off and other times they’re just going to give you a sit. 

smiling dog with eyes closed

7. Be candid

Some of the cutest photos come from the moments between the shots you’re trying to get, so take a bunch of photos and go through them later.  

Two dogs playing together

8. Grab a friend

The more the merrier! Bringing in some friends can bring out a different side of your pup and you’ll get some shots you wouldn’t be able to capture solo.

Dog being cheeky

9. Get cheeky

Don’t be afraid to show off all your dog’s assets! 

This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!

 

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