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Sisters, Santa BarbaraWhether photographing loved ones, family pets, or strangers, thinking ahead is key to capturing the personality, emotion, or character of the subject you are photographing. In this gallery, get expert tips on understanding what you need to make the picture you want. Here, a woman photographs her sister on the beach near Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, California. Photo Tip: If you practice with people you know, you’ll get more comfortable. Equally important, know your gear well enough to use it without thinking. Buy National Geographic Complete Photography »
Photograph by Catherine Karnow, National Geographic

Photographing People and Pets

Get tips for photographing people and pets in this how-to photo gallery from National Geographic.