Where?
First you need to ensure that you pet is relaxed and therefore it is often better to photograph them in their own environment.
Avoiding Green/Red Eyes
Your pet’s eyes turn out red or green for the same reason that humans get “red-eye”. This is due to the flash reflecting off of the back of eye when the pupils are dilated. In pets, most come out green instead of red, although pets with blue eyes often do get the more traditional red-eye. To prevent this, position the flash as far away from your lens as possible. Ideally use a flash with a swivel head. If it is possible shoot in an environment with plenty of natural light and turn off the flash.
Time ……..
Animals are unpredictable – it’s a fact and therefore patience is really important. Do not rush and ensure that you allow plenty of time to photography your pet. You will either need to be prepared to allow time for your pet to settle down or alternatively if your pet will only stay still for a moment before rushing off to play, ensure that everything is set up in advance.
Get to Their Level
Treat this, the same as a portrait shoot. You will want to capture the face and personality of your pet. Ensure that you get either up or down to their level and fill the frame with your subject.
Catch their attention
Get together a bag of treats to catch your pet’s attention or get them to behave in a certain way. Try and get someone else to hold them whilst you take the photographs.