From a pet photographer’s perspective, bright overcast days are the very best for outdoor photography.  I always cringe when I hear someone wishing for a “nice sunny day” to go out and take some photos.  Unless I’m specifically going out to photograph shadows or reflections, then I’m not so much a fan of shooting on a sunny day.  Particulary when pets are involved.  I want to be concentrating on capturing the pet’s personality, not worrying about compensating for extreme contrast situations.  The light was excellent last weekend when I attended the Chester Valley Kennel Club dog show – overcast for most of the day.  Note the green grass behind this Cocker Spaniel.  Had this been a bright sunny day, the background of this shot would have been very bright and detail would be lost.  Instead, the light is even with no blown out highlights or dark areas.  I wish I could put in my request for perfect light like this for every dog show I attend!