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Dear Zelda, I have a nine-month-old bulldog named "Roxie," and I wanted to design a personal calendar of her for the family for the holidays. Can you give me any advice on how to get my bulldog to like clothes and props as well as take great pictures in a short amount of time? What's your secret? Thanks, Roxie's Proxy Dear Roxie's Proxy, You came to the right dog for tips on takin' photos of Roxie! I've been posing for pictures so long now that when I'm not in front of the camera I think something's wrong, and check in the mirror to see if I've left food on my face. In the beginning, however, my owner needed to work with me and teach me that posing for pictures is not only fun, but that by being the perfect posing pooch I could become the center of everyone's attention. It didn't take long for me to catch on and to connect the camera with fun and with tasty rewards. My recommendation is that you start with something simple. Just get Roxie to "sit" while you take her photo. If someone else can help you, it will be easier. You need to chop some lean Puperoni into small pieces, or use any other healthy small treat Roxie likes, and while you are taking photos of Roxie reward her frequently. Your first photo shoot shouldn't last more than a few minutes. For the next photo shoot, tell Roxie that it's time to "WORK." By using a familiar command she will relate it to a good experience. complete with rewards and praise. You might tie a scarf around her neck, ask her to "sit" and take a few more shots followed by tiny pieces of treats. Personally, my favorite time for photo shoots is early in the morning. I'm fresh and there are fewer distractions. Try to use the same plain backdrop so that Roxie will recognize the site and know what is expected. Also a plain background will be better for your calendar images. By now Roxie should be getting the picture, so when you say it's time to "WORK" she'll be rearin' to pose. Roxie will be ready to 'don some more gay apparel' and you can add a Santa hat or a reindeer-antler headband. By the way, Shane Young, my incredibly talented photographer, usually takes photos of me while he is laying on the floor in front of me. Another important word to repeat to Roxie is "STAY." Should Roxie decide she's had enough, you can often get a couple more shots in by saying "STAY" in a firm, but loving voice. The important thing to remember is consistency and reward. Don't say "CHEESE" to Roxie. say "PLEASE" and she will become your supermodel and best buddy. Seriously, when my owner tells me we are going to "WORK" the next day, I wake her early and can't wait to get to the studio. Posing for pictures is clearly my passion, and it can be Roxie's too. Best of luck, and be sure to send us some of the results! Zelda Share this column with a friend! |
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