Set up a place where the light is good (Bright and all round , with few shadows). play with the animal Cat / Dog for a while until it relaxes. "TALK" to it , your voice is one thing it is accostomed to and it will respond. when you see a n apealing shot take it (Have the camera in your hand throughout this process). after about 10 mins or so . S T O P ! ! . play elsewhere for a while and after a few more minutes go back... NEVER get tense or agressive with your pet (they can tell before you can) always play with them. and never let them get bored. If your wife can keep the playtime going then you click while she plays.... and the more you do it the better the images will get.....