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Cloudy Day = Great Lighting
For the most detailed and balanced portrait, consider using Diffused Light; which is best known as a Cloudy Day! A layer of clouds scatters the suns direct rays into a soft, even spread that allows you to see all or most of your pet without creating harsh shadows. This type of lighting is perfect for closeup portraits.
![](http://artwithanderson.com/cdn/shop/files/jandersonica__peaceful_portrait_of_dog_interior_thoughtful_calm_85c9b6ed-bd81-46a4-a92f-02d1a444afb5.webp?v=1709073774&width=1500)
Dramatic Interior Lighting
Pose your pet near a window in the morning or evening when the light is sweeping across their fur to create a dramatic, or soft and calming portrait. Dappled light from the shadow of leaves or curtains can help soften harsh light.
![](http://artwithanderson.com/cdn/shop/files/jandersonica__loyal_portrait_of_dog_in_family_kitchen_tile_floo_3c68aa3c-8689-4cfd-8b3b-bb450b6b4aaf.webp?v=1709073774&width=1500)
Tell A Story With Setting
Does your dog wait in the same place before going on a walk? Or do they always curl up in the same place to catch a patch of sunlight? Look for a combination of that special place, along with good natural lighting, (especially morning and early evening around sunset) to pose your pet that brings a part of their personality or behavior into the portrait.
![](http://artwithanderson.com/cdn/shop/files/jandersonica__portrait_of_dog_facing_camera_kind_eyes_photograp_ddff81fe-8cbe-4fa9-84ce-2b9bb5ae4ed9.webp?v=1709073774&width=1500)
Raking Light
Near sunrise and sunset, sunlight creates light shafts that cut through the window, and can create striking and dramatic portraits. When posed near a window in direct light, the light can "sculpt" the form of your pet, or can catch on long patches of fur in a dazzling glow. This works best against a darker background, but these types of photos can be challenging to use because the dramatic lights and darks often cause difficulty in showing detail, but as a tradeoff, they are exellent for creating mood and a dramatic pose.