Taking That Perfect Shot

photo and permission given by mommamia

Anyone who has ever tried to take a picture of their pet, knows that its a lot harder than it looks! One of my goals for 2008 is to become a better photographer, and that includes the pictures I take of my dog Dewey, and all the doggies I cross paths with. I would love to be able to capture a pet's personality in one amazing shot.

Let's take little Wilbur up above for instance. This is such a superb snap! Don't you feel like you know this pup, and what he's all about just by looking at this photograph? Mommamia, the photographer of this shot, really knew what she was doing when she snapped her camera into action. So how did she do it? What are the tricks of the animal photography trade? I've been doing some research.

For instance, did you know that it's best to take pictures of your pet after they've had something to eat, so they aren't distracted looking for food? Or that the closer you get to your pet when you snap that shot, the better you'll represent them?

Or how about that natural lighting is best? Perhaps the best tip I've learned is this one: GO TO YOUR PET - DON'T MAKE THEM COME TO YOU. You want them to feel comfortable so they LOOK comfortable in the picture, and a good way to do this is to go to THEIR LEVEL. I've been trying to refrain from taking shots of Dewey from up above (me standing looking down at him), but rather getting down at his level - even if that means laying down on the floor next to him. It really does make a difference!

Here are my two favorite links out of the MANY I sifted through:

How To Photograph Pets and 9 Pet Photography Tips

Visit them for not only amazingly helpful TIPS, but for INSPIRING PICTURES as well. Now go grab that digital camera, take an obscene amount of pictures (you can always edit and delete later) and get to work! Happy picture snapping!

Sneak Preview!

I have teamed up with my sister, Pam a.k.a PamelaSusan, who is a phenomenal artisan jeweler and is extremely talented in so many areas. A true handmade goddess! Together we have designed an exclusive line of charms for doggies and their people. Here is a sneak preview:



Custom charms with YOUR pet's name and contact info will not only be a cute adornment attached to their collar, but a SAFE and practical charm as well:



These are just a FEW of the many new charms that will be available at Classic Hound, VERY soon. We're both excited about it! You can see more of Pamela's work here!

The Daily Coyote

"Charlie came into my life when he was just ten days old, orphaned after both his parents were killed. He lives with me and a tomcat in a one-room log cabin in Wyoming".


Charlie and Shreve's story is an amazing one.....and one of my favorite blogs to read. And now I will pass this gem along to you. One reason I love this site so much is that its easy on the eyes. There are some amazing photographs to behold here. I'm in love with the pictures.

Pictures like these:



If you have ever wondered what life might be like living with a wild animal - this isn't it. Charlie is as tame as can be. He even sleeps every night next to the woman who saved him. Get lost in their amazing story and learn more about Charlie at the The Daily Coyote

All About My Dog - Marimo

"I am sorry I hid your red shoes... But they were tresures to me."

This little video brought tears to my eyes. Very well done. This is one of my favorite little snippets to watch. When you have a few minutes, grab a handkerchief, a cup of tea, and enjoy.

How Much Do You Love Your Dog?

Tattoo, originally uploaded by briggs5mary.

This is just one of four beloved pets, briggs5mary from flickr, has tattooed on her back. I think they look great! I've seen more than a few bad "pet" tattoos, but briggs5mary's tattoo artist has really done a fabulous job here. Briggs says she's not done yet with her tattoo. With a few names to add and the inclusion of a frame, this tattoo will be complete.

While I love my doggies, those living and those passed, I don't think I have the kahunas or resolve to make that trip to the parlor. Plus I don't think I have enough canvas to fit them all! So. We can all see how much one woman adores her four legged friends. How much do you love yours? Enough to pay a tribute to them on your epidermis?

Meet Shirley The Pug

ShirleyPug.JPG, originally uploaded by ClassicHound.

Not only is she one hot little pug in her pink Eye-Candy Buckle-Free collar, she's also Classic Hound's February Contest Winner! Congratulations to Shirley and her family! Shirley's mom will enjoy a $20.00 Gift certificate that she can use towards any Classic Hound Purchase! Learn more about Classic Hound's photo contest by clicking here.

Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Carob Treats

Dewey LOVES these treats! And I love knowing EXACTLY what's inside these wholesome snacks. An extra bonus is that they are SOOOOOO easy to make! Just remember to let them sit in the oven after you turn it off for a good 15 minutes or more - for an extra crunchy biscuit!



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WHOLE WHEAT PEANUT BUTTER CAROB TREAT RECIPE
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2 1/4 Cups whole wheat flour
3/4 Cup all -purpose flour
1 1/4 tbsp baking powder
1 Cup milk
1 1/4 Cup creamy peanut butter

1. Preheat oven at 400 degrees and Mix flour and baking powder with a fork
2. Combine milk and peanut butter in a separate bowl and mix until smooth
3. In center of mixture make a large well.
4. Gradually pour peanut butter/milk mixture into well and use for to mix a biscuit style dough.
5. Use hands to knead dough and roll out on floured surface to desired thickness.
6. Cut out treats (I used mini dog bones)
7. Bake for 15 minutes depending upon thickness.

WHILE BISCUITS COOL
Melt carob chips. You can either dip treats in halfway, or use a knife or pastry brush to cover entirely. I used waxed paper to set and dry treats on.

ENJOY!

January Pictures

Blogging Has Gone To The Dogs...

Here we are! Officially launched into cyberspace and orbiting somewhere in the center of the blogosphere. This is an exciting day for Classic Hound! This will be a place to find useful information for both you and your dog, previews of new Classic Hound products, dog treat recipes, pictures, and adoption stories - just to name a few! You and your hound are invited to check back often and visit us everyday.