I started a new tradition this year by taking a family picture on every birthday we celebrate between my husband and I. Let's just say that after four out-takes, the picture I finally settled on is less than any-thing to brag about. It's hard enough to get your dog to look at the camera. Add a birthday hat to the mix and we have a disastrous photo shoot.

That large metal stick you see in the centre of this picture is a camera extender pole that my sister gave me last Christmas as a novelty gift. It works pretty well when I try to get a picture of just my husband and I but doesn't work that great when you try to get your pet in the shot as well.
Thankfully, I'm a much better photographer when I am actually physically behind the camera. While Bella may be my number one model, she's not always a willing one.
I don't pretend to be an amazing photographer but there are a few things I've learned about pet photography that may help you in your own endeavours.

• Move towards your pet instead of expecting her to come to you. She's probably happy with  where she is in the house already. It's important to keep your client happy, after all. Get down on the floor to get a close up shot or climb on that chair if your kitty is sitting precariously on the door. Just don't forget about my post last week about giving an animal enough space.

• Focus on something else other than the pet's face. I love closeup shots of Bella's stinky paws or her wet nose. Don't forget that every bit of your pet is adorable, from nose to tail. This makes for more unique pictures. Use the macro function of your camera to get really detailed shots.

• Never use flash when taking pictures of an animal. Have you ever taken a picture of your pet and come out disappointed with the green glare on Fido's eyes? Your dog, cat and even your fish are equipped with something called tapetum lucidum which allows them to see in lower light conditions. Just a little biology lesson for you.

• Since you can't use flash, take pictures by a window. As with any photography, lighting is the most crucial aspect of your photos. Natural lighting creates the best pictures so try to get your pet to face the window. When outdoors, the best light is early morning or dusk when the light isn't too harsh.

• Just like children, your pets move fast so use a high shutter speed. If you don't own a DSLR camera that allows you to adjust the shutter speed manually, you can currently save a lot if you buy one online. If you'd prefer to stick with your old one then look for the function that looks like a man sprinting. This is especially good for shots outdoors during a game of fetch.

• Can't get your pet to look at the camera? Use a treat! Bella is obsessed with food so placing a treat or an empty yoghurt cup that needs to be licked clean right above the camera lens is the perfect trick to get a great shot of her. She also looks alert and is more willing to pose for the picture. Using her favourite toy or saying a phrase that attracts her attention also works. Sometimes we tell people to ask her if she's hungry when we need someone else to take a picture for us. Works every time.

Good luck with your pet portraits. Remember, your pet is part of your family and deserve great pictures in your flat, too. Upgrade your camera gear with Savoo vouchers and make photo gifts with your new pictures.