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Is it possible to use a flash under those conditions? .....



I'm not sure if there are any written rules here. I know if I was showing my dog and someone popped a flash and the dog hesitated in it's extended gaiting, I'd feel like leaping the barrier and bending the tripod around the photographer's 'head. I've seen flash used ring-side but generally it's not appreciated by the handlers.

As a photographer I don't use flash alongside the show-ring out of concern that it could put a dog off for a moment. Of course ten yards or so away from the ring shooting candids or stacks or win-shots there is every reason to use flash.

Same with Flyball, anything that might distract a dog from performing is best is not good conduct, would be thought of as either ignorant or arrogant.

At some Obedience Trials even a shutter-click near the ring can draw glares from officials and competitors, flash could not be considered.

That's all from an Australian perspective though, - I'd like to know what is considered usual or acceptable in the USA during competition, and whether there are different rules for indoor or outdoor shows.

(Totally agree a monopod or tripod is needed: bending to shoot hand-held for around six hours straight at an all-day show would be torture - and shots from 'above' generally make a dog's legs appear shortened and back over-broad).

PC
www.sherbrookephotography.smugmug.com