Here are some notes from Jack Coburn on taking Iridology photos. This is horse information but can be used for any type of creature as well as humans. Please note- try to be as stable as possible. And remember SAFETY! If a creature is not cooperating in a safe manner trying to get a photo is NOT WORTH ANYONE'S SAFETY- the humans or the creature!!!
Iris Photography with a Cell phone or cameraCamera use: Put on macro setting and auto-focus. Cell phone: use the macro setting if available & zoom into focus. Using a flashlight for lighting on a side angle (do not shine directly into the horses eye). Lighting from the SIDE is important to avoid glare on the photo and discomfort to your animal. When ready click to take photo. Try to brace yourself to avoid movement that may show up as blur when photos are enlarged for reading. NOTE!!!**** For most horses/creatures the first time they hear a click it will likely startle them- this is true for the first click on EACH SIDE of your horse as each side of their brain has to experience something to learn from it. Beyond the first click for most horses/creatures you should be able to take as many photos as you want without startling them.
Detailed Iris Photography Instructions from Jack Colburn Helpful Hints:
A.M. light preferred (before noon) or very a specialized lighting system for your camera.
Use good handler
Each eye photo ‘new experience’ to the horse.
Back light problems with background reflection: Best standing with your back to neutral color wall
Shaded if possible with horse at an angle toward camera
Order To Take a Picture - 1)wall 2)Camera person in place 3) Camera ready 4) Horse Handler To clarify, choose your wall to stand against, position yourself with your back against the wall, get the camera set up then have the handler bring the horse up to you while you focus on the eye. Camera Settings
Manual setting with flash setting on
Manual setting (no auto focus) preset to show complete eye
Move slowly toward eye and when in focus snap photo
Drawing camera in and out to focus is disturbing to the horse
Shutter speed 125 -If you need more light shutter speed 60
F-stop = Very dark eyes 8 to 11
Important considerations
For a creature with long eyelashes (common) - position your camera to shoot at an upper angle at the iris.
If eyes start to close- gently but firmly tap the horses/creature's forehead to get their attention.
If you need a calming try using Bach's Rescue Remedy 20 minutes before you photograph.
Keep sessions CALM AND QUIET for everyone's safety.