Pets Mean Prizes - Pet Photography Competitions Launched

DPNow says: "Before entering any photographic competition, you should read the fine print of the rules very carefully, in case a claim will be made on the use of and/or copyright of your entry. And beware of ulterior motives to sell you something after the competition has entered. In most cases these concerns are not an issue, but it's always worth checking."
Digital cameras were undoubtedly one of the most popular gifts received this Christmas, and what better subject to try out your new acquisition on than your adorable pets? www.petclubuk.com, the new family-friendly pet information web site has an extra incentive to get you snapping in the New Year.

PetClub UK is running photography competitions alongside each of its photo galleries, where visitors can share their favourite shots of many different types of pet. There are galleries for dogs, cats, small animals, reptiles, horses and even one for your aquarium.

Current competitions, with great prizes including a plant collection to deck out your whole aquarium or vouchers to spend on products, are: Best Dressed Dog, Cutest Kitten, Furry Face Stuffers, Reptilian Eyes, Best in House Macaw, Best Tropical Show Aquarium and Winter Horse.

PetClub UK offers a few tips on taking winning shots of your pet:

Most pets are much smaller than you, so get down to their eye level to avoid awkward angles and for the most appealing shot.

To get a natural-looking image that oozes personality, capture your pet at play rather than trying to make it pose. Use a flash to help minimise blur.

For the most impact, take a close-up shot where your pet fills the view-finder: this also cuts out background clutter.

Get as close as your camera focus will allow for a striking shot that reveals textures and details like amazing eyes, feathers, fur or scales. But if your pet is spooked easily by camera noise or flashes, keep back and use your zoom instead.

Use a toy to attract the animal’s attention in the direction you want.

Indoors - keep away from windows, glass and mirrors which create glare, use a flash and the red-eye function, if you have one.

Outdoors – keep the sun behind you so the light falls on your pet and not directly into your camera.

Most importantly, take several photos at the same time to ensure you get just that one terrific shot that captures your pet at its best.

www.petclubuk.com is a one-stop shop for pet lovers, packed with useful tools and resources in a vibrant and interactive environment. The website brings to the finger-tips of everyone who visits fact-laden animal profiles, guidance on health and dietary requirements and advisory articles on choosing the right pet and keeping it happy and healthy, as well as a section listing national and regional events for every type of pet.