On-Camera Flash
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.
1 Comment
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! :)