This image of Doogle our Cocker Spaniel was given a ‘gold award’ in the SWPP February image competition. All gold award images are put forward to the ‘Photographer of the Year’ judging next January.
With this image, I used a single speedlite fitted with a stofen omnibounce diffuser and a small softbox (without diffusion panel) directly in front of Doogle at about 45 degrees to give a nice contrasty sheen on his black fur. In front of a black backdrop I had Doogle sit while I placed a treat near his front paws. He is reasonably well trained and I knew he would look at the treat and then glance up at me without moving his head waiting for the command to grab it. This gave the “pose” I was aiming for that brings his ears and nose together while his eyes are clearly the focal point of the image.
I could have made a “cute” dog photograph, but I like dark and dramatic pet portraits so I emphasised the darkness by adding the negative space above Doogle’s head. It also leaves plenty of space for typesetting – for a motivation poster perhaps? 
Doogle the Cocker Spaniel
Having had one of last year’s pet portraits come in as a runner up in the annual awards, and with a run of three gold awards in a row for November, January and February (there was no competition in December) I am allowing myself a bit of optimism for this year! Now I have to work at submitting another image. I have the chance to photograph ten German Shepherd puppies together, so perhaps that will be the next project – I think I might try for “cute and cuddly” this time though
If you would like a pet portrait of your dog – or cat, mouse, monkey… get in touch using the link for the contact form to the right or call us on 0141 416 5141.
Stuart
cracking Image a well deserved award