There are so many pieces involved in making a successful fundraiser, but in today’s world, a picture is worth a thousand words. Having good quality photos can make or break a fundraiser, so taking an extra moment to capture that winning shot could define the journey of that animal.
Based on years of experience and thousands of fundraisers, we’ve compiled our best tips for photography in animal welfare.
Eye Contact
The number one tip we have can also be one of the most difficult. A photo with an animal making eye contact connects the viewer with their plight. In animal welfare, there are so many stories and needs, but having this moment where a viewer looks directly into the eyes of that one animal draws them in and breathes life into the story.
Horizontal Photos
We all are so used to taking photos on our phone, so this note can be the most difficult to remember. Turning your phone to take a horizontal photo creates a layout that is easier to convert to emails, facebook ads, and videos. Having to crop a photo can take away emotion, which is an essential aspect to a good fundraiser.
Clarity
Animals are always moving, so it can be hard to take a clear photo. Taking multiple photos is a good way to get more options an hopefully capture a blur-free moment.
Outdoor Lighting/ Hospital Lighting
Outdoor and hospital lighting is always better than indoor lighting. Lighting in a room can come across grainy and can impact how clear the photo is.
Full Body Photos from Different Angles
Having full body photos from different angles gives the full effect of the animal’s need. Zooming into a wound can be hard to understand and cutting out the animal’s face takes that powerful opportunity for connection.
Avoid Editing or Adding Graphics
Overly processed photos are easy to identify, so using the raw photo is always preferred. Additionally, adding text or graphics to the image will cover the animal and take away some of the authenticity that viewer can relate to.
High Quality Photos
Taking a screenshot of a photo lowers the resolution of an image and will take away from of that clarity. Always use the original image and avoid filtering through any other app.
Capture Every Moment of Journey
Photos are such a powerful storytelling tool. With that in mind, taking photos of the animal as they are being rescued, in transport to a medical facility, at the vet, etc can be so helpful. This gives your viewer a step-by-step guide through the animal’s journey and will keep their interest.
If you ever have trouble identifying areas of improvement, we recommend connecting with your CUDDLY representative to discuss other ways to make your fundraiser successful.
Access the Rescue Learning Center for more video resources.