Animals can instantly add interest to a portrait. But, creating portraits with animals — and particularly wild animals — requires patience and an emphasis on safety. Understanding the animal and keeping everyone involved safe is key. This week, we highlight three stunning portraits with animals. Find inspiration from these shots by Dallas Kolotylo, Raini Rowell, and Tamara Masovic.

Dallas Kolotylo, Dallas & Sabrina Photography

Dallas Kolotyo of Dallas & Sabrina Photography was taking photos in the lava fields on Lanzarote, Spain, when a herd of camels started walking down the pathway. Because the camels never stopped moving, he had to work quickly. He backed up until he could get the full scene and focused on the couple as the animals passed through. He captured the shot with the Nikon D750 and the Sigma 35mm f1.4 Art.

“Patience,” Kolotylo says. “Anticipate and place yourself in a position ahead of time where you think will be the best location to capture the image. Animals are unpredictable, so you have to just be prepared and work with whatever they are doing.” 

Raini Rowell, Raini Rowell Photography

Highland cows are an iconic sight in Scotland (where they are called helian’ coos), so when Raini Rowell of Raini Rowell Photography spotted the herd grazing by a loch, she couldn’t pass up the opportunity. When the cow picked his head up to look at the couple, it created a brief moment of connection for this photograph. She captured the shot with the Nikon D780 and the 35mm f1.4.

“Safety first — especially with wild animals,” Rowell stresses. “It’s important to make sure you understand the general temperament of the animals (which can change during certain seasons) and adhere to general safety guidance. It can be tempting to try and get too close to animals, especially when they look cute (like these cows), but it’s not worth risking the safety of your clients or yourself.”

Tamara Masovic, Stories by Tamaris

Tamara Masovic of Stories by Tamaris was on a post-wedding shoot when these wild horses appeared, providing immediate inspiration for a series of portraits. This shot with the groom has a timeless feel with the horses drawing the eye to the groom at the center. She captured the shot with the Canon 6D and a 50mm lens.

“Be calm and do not expect a certain outcome,” Masovic advises. “Let them become curious, and let them come to you.”

Dig into our Photos of the Day Archives for even more timeless photos, eye-catching wedding photos and portraits. Submit your wedding, editorial, documentary and other interesting imagery (up to 5 images at a time) to: [email protected].