
Photos
Light is everything. Take photos near a window or outside in the shade. Avoid using your flash; it creates harsh shadows and can make dark-coated dogs look flat. Overcast days are actually ideal.
Get down to their level. Kneel or sit on the floor to shoot at eye level with your hound. Photos taken from above make them look small and are less engaging to potential adopters.
What to capture:
- A close-up face shot with eyes in focus
- A full-body shot showing their build and markings
- A personality shot: lounging on the couch, playing with a toy, or cuddling with you
Keep backgrounds simple. A plain wall, a tidy yard, or a clean floor works best. Clutter in the background distracts from the dog.
Take more than you think you need. Greyhounds move fast and look away at the worst moment. Take 10 shots to get one great one.
Name your files before uploading. If you can, rename your photos using your dog’s call name before uploading (example: Army_1.jpg, Army_2.jpg). This helps us keep track of who is who.
Video
Video is a wonderful way to show off your foster’s personality. A short clip can make all the difference for an adopter on the fence.
Use portrait mode (vertical). Hold your phone upright, not sideways. Vertical video works best for social media.
Keep it short. Aim for 15 to 30 seconds. One sweet moment is better than a long, shaky clip.
What makes a great video:
- Your hound relaxing or being affectionate
- A moment of play or silliness (or zoomies!)
- Playing with a toy or another pet
- Interacting with you or a family member
Talk while you film. Say a few words about your foster as you shoot: their name, personality, and what makes them special. Keep it casual and conversational.
Steady wins. Rest your elbow on a surface or lean against a wall to keep the camera still. Shaky video is hard to watch.
