Pet Portrait Competitions Allow Photographers to Showcase Their Skills Through Their Love of Animals

The desire to capture an enduring image of a much loved pet and or an animal in a novelty pose has a long history as revealed by an exhibition of the very earliest photographs of cats and dogs dating from the 1800s. Nowadays, whether we use cameras for a professional photo shoot or take a quick snap on our phones, the urge to record and share pictures of our pets remains strong. While the very early examples of animal photography are viewed as exhibits in a museum, contemporary pet portraits can be creatively displayed and easily shared online with friends and family. To reach a wider audience, entering pet photography competitions provides a great way to demonstrate your photography skills, enjoy looking at a selection of the year’s best pet portraits and connect with other animal lovers.

Celebrating the Artistry of Pet Photographers

The principal aim of the International Pet Photography Awards is to celebrate the creative skills of pet photographers from all over the world. The awards were first established in 2019 and they are now the largest professional competition dedicated to pet photography. There are six categories including pet portraits, action shots and images using more creative photographic techniques.  While cell phones have made it much easier and quicker to take photos of pets, DSLR and mirrorless cameras can produce the high quality professional images that really stand out from everyday snapshots and ordinary online content. If you own a professional camera, making the most of the different settings on your photography equipment can ensure that the photo shoots with your pet produce exceptional images that are up to competition standards.

Sharing the Positive Influence of Pets through Humorous Pictures

All animal lovers know that looking at amusing pictures and videos of pets can really help to improve your mood and even relieve stress. In recognition of the important role that animals play in enhancing our lives in this way, two professional photographers Paul Johnson Hicks and Tom Sullam created the Comedy Pet Photo Awards. To enter the competition, pet owners and animal lovers can send in goofy pictures of their pets or videos of their antics to share the fun with viewers around the world. The public are then invited to vote in the People’s Choice category which comprises the 30 finalists from other individual categories.

Connecting with Fellow Dog Lovers through Photography

Funny photos are just one of the ways in which dog owners can capture their pet’s likeness for National Dog Photography Day, an annual event  marked on 26th July. The idea for the first day in 2018 was originated by the photographer Kerry Jordan who encouraged dog lovers and owners to mark the occasion by posting pictures of their pets online, and the holiday quickly went viral on social media. Unlike with more formal competitions, anybody is welcome to post a quick snap or upload a more professional photo shoot of their dog. Sharing pictures of their dogs sitting smartly, dressed up in costume or simply running around in the park allows owners to connect with other dog lovers in mutual appreciation of their furry pals.

Photography competitions and official national holidays are a great way to encourage the display and sharing of some of the best pet portraits. Taking part in a competition can motivate you to take exceptional photographs of your pet, and, even if you don't win, you’ll have some wonderful, high-quality pictures to treasure for yourself, share with others or use as inspiration for professional artwork.