I shoot dogs at a shelter that are waiting to be adopted. I’ve tried various lighting setups over the years but find the most convenient is the simplest but not necessarily the most interesting. I shoot with one on-camera flash and a reflector. I either work in the dog runs which are 3’x6’ or a room that is about 8’x10’ with two doors and three windows and some storage bins. Strobes and off-camera speedlights aren’t practical under theses circumstances. I’m wondering how other people deal with nervous animals in confined situations and are able to get interesting light.
Hi Jay,
I've worked with on camera flash bounce at the shelter, too. The space isn't large enough to do any elaborate lighting setups. Once in a while, I am able to use one of the larger rooms so I always bring a stand and brolly box with me just in case.
As for nervous animals, all I can say is it takes a lot of patience, which I'm sure you already know. If the dog or cat allows me to pet and give them love, I do it and I spend a good amount of time loving on them until they are comfortable with me. Then, i'll slowly attempt a few images of them.
I don't think the shelter wants award winning images. They just want images of the animals looking relaxed and definitely images where they are not behind crate bars. You've done a great job of that and I'm sure the shelter is quite happy with your work.
I absolutely love the expression on your first image of the chocolate lab! :)