When it comes to professional dog photography, the gear is just a tool—the real magic is how we use light to tell a story. This week during practice (I never stop practicing and never will), Riku helped me demonstrate the two main ways I light my subjects: Off-Camera Flash (Strobe) and Continuous Lighting.

The Strobe Advantage (Image 1) In the first shot, I used a strobe. Flash is the gold standard for "freezing" time. If a dog is high-energy or prone to quick movements, the strobe ensures that every whisker and sparkle in the eye is tack-sharp. It provides that high-end, commercial "pop" that makes the subject leap off the background.

The Continuous Connection (Image 2) The second shot was captured using continuous light. I love this method for more soulful, quiet portraits. Since the light is always on, it’s less distracting for timid pups who might find a flash startling. It creates a soft, cinematic feel that highlights the texture of the fur and creates a gentle, natural gradient in the shadows.

The Verdict? You don’t have to choose one over the other to get a professional result. Whether I'm using the power of a flash or the subtlety of a steady glow, my focus is always on capturing the spirit of your four-legged family member.