SIX TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING CATS
Cat photography and article written by Amy Hume
As more people are becoming amateur photographers, there are a few ways to set you apart from the point-and-shoot crowd. Of course, photographing cats is in a class all of it's own, and taking great cat portraits can be quite challenging. Here are a few tips to help create fascinating photos of our furry feline friends.
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1. Use Natural Light
Utilizing natural light is the best way to capture prime feline moments. If you must use a flash, put it at an angle that isn't straight towards the subject as cats' eyes are big reflectors. Catching cats in available light can be more effective and allows their eyes (and characters) to shine naturally.
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2. Go to Their Level
Sit down, bend down, or lie down to be face to face with your fuzzy subject. Use the floor, a blanket, or the grass as the foreground, which adds depth to a photo. Getting down to their level establishes a personal relationship and allows the cat to be the center of attention. Sure, Fluff may run to you with excitement that you're on the floor with her, but this can create funny moments that will in turn make fantastic images.
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3. Get Close
Details of cat eyes, noses, whiskers or paws make for interesting and creative images. Some cats will be curious and come close to the camera, which makes your job much easier. If not, use a long lens or zoom in to snap beautiful features of your model.
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4. Capture the Cat's Character
It's the same idea when photographing people. Successful images portray a feeling or give insight about the subject. If Tiger is patiently watching a bird through the window, catch the moment of hunting intensity from Tiger's stance. When Bella is soaking in the sunshine, snap a photo that shows her ultimate pleasure.
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5. Always Have a Camera Near
Whether Pumpkin just curled up into a precious sleeping position or Mittens is jumping at a spider, you always want a camera ready to seize the moment. Sleeping subjects are obviously, easier to capture, and a snoozing cat can put themselves into some comical positions. Playful subjects are more difficult to capture, however they can make for stunning images. Most people have their smart phone within reach so use it if a larger format camera isn't available. Don't worry if the images aren't always top quality, as you may have captured a perfect moment that can't be recreated.
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6. Be Patient
As we all know, cats control us, we don't control cats. The rare feline may sit in perfect position ready for their close up, but more often than not cats aren't the most cooperative models (unless they're sleeping). Take a lot, I mean A LOT of photos and a few of them will be outstanding. Finding the perfect timing of cat model plus ideal light plus camera in hand can be a scarce occasion so when you find that timing snap away!
