Pictures of your pets sometimes happen when you least expect them, so don't get so caught up getting what you consider the perfect picture that you stop enjoying the little moments. After all, aren't the moments we'll reflect back on are what count when we later look at the pictures we took?

Here are some tips from the experts I spoke with:

• Choose a good background. Avoid distracting objects or backgrounds that are too busy, such as street signs and walls with patterns or posters.
• Shoot after playtime. You could also get nice photos if your dog has its mouth open or panting, it looks like they're smiling.
• Draw attention to the eyes by getting everyone to look up or toward a light source that illuminates their eyes.
• Avoid using direct flash. Some animals are afraid of the flash and it often gives the photo an unnatural look.
• Find a sound that gets your subject's attention. Wait until everything is set up and then make your noise to get the animal to look at you.
• Allow everyone to act naturally as much as possible. This might not work if your pet likes to curl up in a ball and sleep, or if you kid likes to do jumping jacks, but the key is to not overwhelm your subjects by forcing them to do something that’s unnatural to them.

And the best photos are the ones where everyone is relaxed and happy, so snap away and say, “Cheese!”

So the next time you get ready to take pictures of your pooch simply have fun and don't put too much pressure on yourself or on your sweet pup. Favorite pictures will happen when you least expect it, and if you have a cell phone with a large memory have fun snapping away! Also be sure to check out more pet picture taking tips at ASPCA.