laurenbonvini

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini

[laurenbonvini]

Capturing Action Shots of Dogs on the Beach with Professionals like Lauren Bonvini (Seattle)

Photographing dogs in action on the beach offers a unique opportunity to capture the spirit, joy, and energy of pets in one of the most dynamic settings. Beaches provide the perfect backdrop for dogs to run, jump, and play, making it an ideal environment for action shots. Whether it's a dog leaping through the waves, chasing after a ball, or running along the shoreline, these moments showcase not only the dog’s physicality but also its personality.

However, taking great action shots requires more than just pointing a camera and snapping a photo. Understanding the right techniques and preparation is essential to capturing these fleeting moments in a way that does justice to the dog's vitality and the beauty of the beach setting.

In this blog, we will explore essential tips and tricks to help you master the art of capturing action shots of dogs at the beach. From choosing the right equipment to understanding timing and composition, these insights will ensure your photographs convey the excitement of the moment.

Choosing the Right Equipment

To capture action shots of dogs, it's essential to use the right camera and lenses as underscored by professionals like Lauren Bonvini (Seattle). A DSLR or mirrorless camera with fast autofocus and continuous shooting modes will be your best choice. These cameras can quickly lock focus on moving subjects, reducing the risk of blurry photos. While smartphone cameras have advanced significantly in recent years, they still lack the versatility and speed of dedicated cameras when it comes to capturing fast-moving action.

When selecting lenses, go for a zoom lens, such as a 24-70mm or 70-200mm, which will allow you to capture the dog from various distances without having to reposition yourself constantly. A wide aperture (f/2.8 or f/4) is also ideal, as it helps blur the background and make the dog stand out in sharp focus against the beach setting. Additionally, consider using a lens with image stabilization to reduce the effects of camera shake, especially when shooting handheld in the dynamic beach environment.

Mastering Camera Settings

In order to freeze action while maintaining a crisp, clear image, adjusting your camera settings is critical. Start by setting your camera to a fast shutter speed, typically between 1/1000s to 1/2000s. Photographers such as Lauren Bonvini (Seattle) mention that this will help freeze the motion of the dog, preventing blur while they move at high speeds.

A high ISO setting may also be necessary to ensure that the image is well-exposed, particularly if you are shooting in the bright midday sun or during the golden hour when natural light is soft. However, be mindful of the ISO setting, as too high of a value may introduce graininess to your photos. Balance is key: choose an ISO that allows for a properly exposed image without sacrificing too much image quality. Use the aperture to control the depth of field, ensuring that your subject, the dog, is sharply in focus while the background remains slightly blurred to emphasize motion.

Capturing Movement and Timing

One of the most challenging aspects of photographing dogs in action is timing. Dogs move quickly, and their actions are often unpredictable, making it difficult to capture the perfect shot. Anticipating the dog’s movements is key. Pay attention to their body language—look for signs that they are about to take off, jump, or change direction. These cues will help you prepare and press the shutter at the right moment.

Using the burst or continuous shooting mode on your camera allows you to take several shots in quick succession. This increases your chances of getting the perfect image when the dog is mid-jump or running at full speed. Another helpful technique is panning. By following the dog’s movement with your camera as suggested by cameramen including Lauren Bonvini (Seattle), you can create a sense of speed and motion, while keeping the dog in focus and blurring the background. This technique works particularly well on beaches where the dog might be running along the shoreline, creating dynamic motion.

Using Natural Lighting to Your Advantage

Lighting plays a significant role in the quality of action shots. On the beach, natural light is often abundant, but its intensity can vary throughout the day. For optimal results, aim to shoot during the golden hour, which is the period just after sunrise or before sunset. Professionals like Lauren Bonvini (Seattle) convey that during this time, the light is softer and warmer, producing a flattering glow on the dog’s fur and avoiding harsh shadows or overexposed highlights.

Midday sun can create harsh shadows and strong contrasts, which can make it challenging to capture clear, well-lit images. If you must shoot during the midday hours, position yourself so that the dog is either facing the sun or slightly to the side, preventing strong backlighting that could silhouette your subject. Alternatively, using a reflector or flash can help fill in shadows and balance the lighting, ensuring that the dog is well-illuminated.

Composing the Shot

Composition is essential in turning an ordinary photo into an extraordinary one as pointed out by photographers such as Lauren Bonvini (Seattle). Start by considering the rule of thirds, which divides the frame into three equal parts both horizontally and vertically. Place the dog slightly off-center, leaving room in the direction they are moving to enhance the sense of motion. This composition technique can create a more dynamic and engaging image.

Also, consider the environment around the dog. The beach setting offers a rich landscape, but it can also be busy and distracting. Keep the background simple by focusing on areas of sand, water, or the sky. Alternatively, you can use elements like rocks, waves, or dunes to frame the dog, adding depth and context to the action shot. Including the horizon line can also provide balance and perspective, drawing attention to the dog's movement across the expansive beach.

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

[laurenbonvini]

Lauren Bonvini Seattle

Hi! I’m Lauren Bonvini, a photographer who committed to cameras in 2015 after adopting my first dog, knowing I wanted to capture our lives together in as much detail as possible, whether we were at home, hiking, or road tripping across the west. I began doing portraits and event shoots for friends in 2020, dog sport practices in 2021, and trial photography in 2022. Inspired by herding and photography loving friends across the country, PenPals was born. I love making the experience easy and fun for everyone involved. At sport events, I’ll be capturing you and/or your dog in action without interfering with your success, but can also offer win portraits and stack photos during lulls in the day as well. I also enjoy doing professional head shots/portraits, engagement/maternity shoots, small wedding events, and sports outside of canine sports. Candid and natural, interactive moments in outdoor settings, regardless of weather, are my favorites. Let’s skip the studio, the flashes, and the forced poses with fake smiles!

Lauren Bonvini Seattle