Help With Black Eyes

[altheau]

Howdy doody, need a little advice.

the last few times I have taken photos of dogs I have suffered a bit from black eyes (as in you lose all the detail as the eylids cast a shadow onto the eyeballs, hope that makes sense)

Is it because the sun is still to high? Maybe I should try and place the dog side on to the sun? but then you can get some big shadows across the body from their face.

Not sure on how I should position the dog or what time I should be aiming my shoot (if it is because the sun is still to high) to avoid this problem. Any info on how others help combat it would be great.

I can post pics when I get home if you are not sure what I mean

[becandcharch]

My favorite times to take photos are sunrise or late arvo/evening when the sun is low.

I have the dogs facing the sun. I find the best days to shoot are overcast but not too dark. The light is even that way.

Maybe the dogs eyes are dark because the sun (although is high) it still behind the dog, casting a shadow?

The experts may have better advice

[WreckitWhippet]

Eye are my favourite thing to capture, I like the eyes to remain dark, yet capture the detail and reflect the light from them.

I do early morning and no direct sun onto the face, but face the dog to the sun.

Most of my dogs are black with black eyes, I've had plenty of practice

Edited May 3, 2010 by SBT123

[altheau]

Thought I would post up what I mean

SBT123 - That is exactly the type of picture I am after I want the nice sparkles in the eyes instead of a black patch

Bec - I think you might be right, I might have to nudge my photo taking time back an hour or so.

[Linda K]

also, you can use reflectors to get good catchlights into the eyes, and it does not have to actually be a reflector - natural reflectors such as concrete, tan bark etc can work in your favour. Direct sunlight is generally not something I like to use, an area that has even shade is good, or wait till later in the day, as has already been suggested, and turn the subject till you know you have pleasing light (ie avoid the dark pits for eyes)