With lockdown putting a halt to all events, photographer Louisa Lewis found herself looking for a different direction to take her photography. She undertook several mini-projects, the latest of which centred on her other passion – dogs!
New Valley News went to meet Louisa to find out more.
“During the last lockdown, I volunteered at the Michael Herbert Hall, Wilton vaccination centre. It was such a positive, hopeful, helpful atmosphere to volunteer in, and everyone was so friendly. I wanted to capture the scenes and people through photographs for posterity.
“We ended up creating a photo book for each of the volunteers so that they can show their grandchildren what they did during the Covid pandemic.
“I was looking for a new project, and I’ve always found dogs such great characters to photograph, plus there are so many beautiful dogs around here as well as gorgeous places to photograph them! Is there a better way to spend a workday?
“I find that most dog portraits are either in a studio set-up, or outside in the woods or open fields, and I wanted to create something different for this project, so have used local, manmade features as the textured backgrounds, but all outside in natural light.
“I prefer to work with natural light outside, which is helpful in terms of being Covid-friendly. Depending on the guidelines at the time, we can also take some shots inside (with relevant precautions), but predominantly I look for exterior locations.
“It can be unsettling for dogs to meet a stranger with a large camera, so I always spend time with both dog and owner, without any equipment. It is essential that they are both relaxed! We want to ensure that we get the best natural expressions from your dog that you know and love! It really is all effortless, and I have found that many dogs settle in and enjoy the posing.
“For images of dogs with their owners, the same process applies, but you’ll be the other side of the camera, having fun with your dog!”
They say never work with children or animals – have you ever had any funny incidents?
“Children and animals certainly keep you on your toes,” Louisa said. “The benefit of that is that you end up with shots that you hadn’t even thought of. I have, however, learnt to keep anything edible in zipped pockets, out of reach of dogs who can sniff a treat out a mile off.
“My dog is always very interested in my camera bag when I get home from a photoshoot. It smells of other dogs, and she claims any leftover treats milliseconds after I get in the door”.
Do people and their dogs come to you, or do you go to them?
“I go to them! I find that people, and animals, are far more relaxed in their own environments, which makes for better images, plus it means that I get to travel around!”
Louisa’s portraits are currently on display at Bird and Carter, Fonthill, Tisbury, SP3F
www.louisalewis.co.uk/dog-portraits
Instagram: Louisa Lewis (@louisa_lewis_photography).
