True or false: Cows sit down when it’s about to rain?
My 6-year-old bought that myth hook, line and sinker, despite a “real” farmer trying to explain otherwise. The problem is my child has photographic proof that cows really do take a load off when dark clouds roll in. Years ago I snapped a shot of a cow sitting pretty with a black sky as the background. What you don’t see in the photo is that there were about 14 other cows standing straight up as the rain began to fall.
Whether you are taking pictures of cows, horses or pigs, you never know what you’re going to get, which is why it is always a good idea to be prepared. Animals don’t react the same way humans do. Consequently, the key to capturing amazing livestock photos is preparation. The more you understand how a particular animal behaves, the better able you will be to anticipate their movements during a photo shoot. Spend some time studying livestock via books or the Internet, so you can better predict how they will react during a shoot.
Patience is also key when shooting unpredictable animals. In most cases you will have to wait a long time to score a winning shot. Animals have a knack for being uncooperative in front of the camera. By remaining calm and creating a relaxing atmosphere for the animal, you increase your chances of walking away with great shots.
If you are taking livestock pictures to sell, consider getting in a few practice sessions before your final shoot. Visit multiple farms, zoos or a ranch and take some pictures of the animals there. Study the animals’ behavior, take notes, and apply what you learned to enhance your photo session.
Finally, in order to snap a stellar shot, the animal must be properly positioned and posed. Aim for a full side view, or a three-quarters view, or both. The animal’s head should be positioned high, the stance should be solid, and the overall appearance should be healthy.
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