Gina Rayment, a talented gig photographer from the area, has indulged in a pronounced swerve of creativity, having begun to shoot “dog portraits” for their owners. Here, in an exclusive interview with “Pulse” author Steve Rudd, Gina reveals the “dog-whispering” secrets of her success…
Q. So what prompted you to start taking photos of dogs?
A. I have owned dogs for more than 30 years and I’ve always loved taking photos of them, albeit just “point and shoot” photos prior to last year.
Q. Are you pursuing canine photography at the expense of all other forms of pet photography?
A. Not at all. I also love taking photos of cats. I am really at home with all animals, having grown up with them. I used to have a pony as a teenager and have lots of photos from that chapter in my life.
Q. Have you always been so passionate about photography, or is it a relatively new hobby of yours?
A. I have always been passionate about photography. I got my first camera when I was eleven.
It was a 110mm camera and very much a “point and hope for the best when they’re developed” affair!
I often pull over when driving to take photos of gorgeous landscapes and sunsets.
I love the more natural photos of animals whilst they are outdoors, enjoying life.
Q. What do you regard to be the most effective methods of scoring great photos of dogs, especially boisterous “dogs in action”?
A. I would recommend going on a “safe” dog walk where your dog can run free and have fun, so always have some toys and treats available.
Get low down on the ground and focus on your dog’s eyes.
Q. You recently attended a “Canine Action Photography” course. What did such a course teach you, and have you found it easy to apply what you learnt to real-life scenarios?
A. I went on a brilliant workshop run by a local photographer. I really had to start from scratch, learning which settings to use to get the best action shots.
The day covered both the theory and practical aspects. I found it really easy to put it all into practice, from taking the photos to editing them in Adobe Lightroom.
I can highly recommend attending the workshops or the one-to-one tuition, because once you get off the “Auto” settings, you will never go back. Visit www.fraimcpt.com for more information about the courses on offer.
Q. What kind of equipment do you use?
A. I use a Canon EOS 60D and, mostly, my 70-200mm 2.8 and 50mm 1.8 lenses. I use ambient light when out on shoots, and I always have my waterproofs with me for lying on the ground to get the best shots!
Q. Do you employ any “tricks” in order to try and get your canine subjects to “pose” long enough for you to take photos?
A. I use squeaky toys, a silly “voice” and treats to help get that “special” tilt of the head.
Q. Given that you’re now doing canine photo-shoots for pet-lovers in the Driffield region, what kind of packages do you offer?
A. I am currently offering a great summer offer of a one-hour outdoor shoot to include three 8x10 prints.
There is always the option to purchase further prints or the digital images.
Q. Would you consider doing photo-shoots of different family pets if asked?
A. Yes, of course… I love all animals.
Q. As well as taking photos of dogs, you’re also partial to taking photos at gigs. How do such disciplines differ on logistical levels?
A. Yes, I do love a good gig. I find it to be the complete opposite of my usual outdoor action shots, so I have to change lenses and adjust the settings for the lighting on stage.
Also, the focus can change from the singer to the rest of the band and, quite often, the instruments. I love the challenge of getting great photos at a gig.
Q. Finally, how can people find out more about you and your photography?
A. You can either contact me via my website at www.ginarphotography.strikingly.com or email ginarayment@gmail.com or call 07875 358411 to discuss any queries.