How do you get great pet photography? Try an animal trainer with an art degree and a camera

Fur In Focus Photography artistically captures your pet's personality - Slideshow below!

When it comes to photographers who say they do pet photos, there are two types. One involves a studio, flat lighting, and a backdrop - perhaps of a tree or a waterfall - and lots of toy squeeking, trying to get the pet to sit still and look into a stationary lense sitting inside a silly black box. The other involves natural light and allowing the pets to be themselves, free in nature or in their own home, while the photographer captures their true personality from all angles.

That's where Mary Basu of Fur in Focus Photography fits in. This Cleveland based photographer doesn't just take bland, posed portraits. She's an artist who produces some of the most intriguing pet photography I've seen. And yes, she's also worked as an animal trainer and dog training instructor.

"Training animals has taught me to be very patient and to have excellent observational skills," said Mary, who has a BFA from Kent State University. "Having met hundreds of dogs over the years has also helped me respect each dog's unique personality."

With this type of photography, you don't have to awkwardly try to keep your pet still while the photographer snaps away, hoping to get a few shots of the pet looking into the camera before the next client shows up. True pet photography is about going into the pet's environment and simply observing them in their home, where they feel comfortable...or letting them explore new sights and smells in a park while capturing all the expressions they have to offer.

"There's no need to rush and I try to always have fun with the pets I photograph - I just want them to think it's a play activity," said Mary. As she wrote on her web site, "When I photograph a dog or cat, it’s not about me. Or the camera. Or the perfect pose. My goal is to capture the light in your dog’s eye."

The beautiful light, shadows and contrast produced by photographers of Mary's calibre somehow add life to a still image. The result of a session with a great pet photographer isn't just a static image of somebody's dog or cat. It's a story about to come alive. Their eyes seem to be communicating with you. Their posture explains exactly what they're thinking and what they're about to do. Their personality--not just their good looks--are captured to be admired and "awww'd" over.

Are all pets good candidates for a pet photography session? Of course, all pets have different energy levels and comfort zones. That's one more reason why Mary is able to get such amazing shots.

"I've spent some time doing studio sessions and every once in awhile, we'll get a dog that isn't comfortable with the flash of the studio lights (this is one reason why I prefer natural light photography!). In those situations, I switch from photographer mode back into trainer mode and will work the dog or cat to help them get more comfortable."

And if all else fails, Mary reminds pet lovers there's always bribery.

"Having really delicious treats will often help in even the most trying situation."