As a cat lover, capturing the essence and beauty of your feline friend in a photograph is a true joy. However, it can be challenging to get your furry companion to stay still or look in the right direction. With our simple tips, you can take better photos of your cat and create lasting memories to cherish.
Tip #1: Get down to your cat’s level
When taking photos of your cat, get down to their level. This allows you to capture their perspective and showcase their unique personality. Get down on the ground and make eye contact with your cat. This will allow you to capture their natural facial expressions and reactions.
Tip #2: Use natural lighting
Natural lighting is the best source of light for any photo, especially when it comes to photographing your cat. Avoid using the flash as it can startle your cat and create an unflattering reflection in their eyes. Instead, find a well-lit area in your home or outside to take photos of your cat. Large windows are your friends in these circumstances.
Tip #3: Use treats and toys to keep your cat’s attention
Cats can be easily distracted, so using treats and toys is a great way to keep your furry friend’s attention during a photoshoot. Place a few treats on the ground or use a toy to entice your cat to look in a particular direction or strike a pose.
Small stuffed toys on the sting and attached to a cane, a little like a fishing rod, are great for getting cats to leap around. Even better the toy has feathers or a scent of food.
Tip #4: Avoid busy backgrounds
When photographing your cat, avoid using a busy or cluttered background. Instead, use a plain, neutral background that won’t distract from your cat’s natural beauty. This could be a white wall inside your home or a plain background outside.
Tip #5: Catch them in action
Cats are naturally curious creatures and often get into playful and silly antics. Be ready to capture these spontaneous moments as they happen. Be patient and keep your camera handy so you can snap a quick photo when the moment arises.
Conveniently placed treats can help motivate your cat to move around and explore spots that you want to photograph them in. Catnip is also great for revving them up for some photos with a bit of action.
Tip #6: Focus on their eyes
The eyes say it all when it comes to capturing your cat’s emotions and personality. When taking photos of your cat, focus on their eyes. This creates a sharp, clear image that showcases the depth and beauty of their gaze.
If using one of the new Canon mirrorless cameras, the animal eye focus function is invaluable as it constantly tracks the animals eyes once the focus has locked on, so wherever the cat moves, the focus on the eyes will remain sharp. You know what they see about the eyes – they’re the windows to the soul.
Tip #7: Show variety in your photos
Variety is key when it comes to taking photos of your cat. Take photos from different angles and positions to showcase different aspects of your cat’s personality. You can take close-up shots of their face or full-body shots to show their overall physique.
Tip #8: Be respectful of your cat’s boundaries
Not all cats enjoy having their photo taken, so it’s important to respect your cat’s boundaries. If your cat seems uncomfortable or stressed, it’s best to stop the photoshoot and give them some space. Remember, your cat’s comfort and happiness should always come first.
Tip #9: Capture their favorite activities
Cats have a variety of favorite activities, from napping in the sun to playing with their toys. Photographing your cat during their relaxing or favorite activities is a great way to showcase their unique personality and bring their true nature to life in photos.
Tip #10: Practice, practice, practice
The more you practice photographing your cat, the better you will become at capturing its unique beauty and personality. Take lots of photos and experiment with different techniques and settings to find what works best for you and your cat.
If you don’t have the time, patience or a good quality camera for taking photos of your cat then check out the work of a local professional cat photographer. There are numerous cat photographers in Melbourne and Sydney who offer their experience and skills for photoshoots in your own home, with many prices often starting at just $150.
In conclusion, taking better photos of your cat requires patience, creativity, and a willingness to experiment. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can capture beautiful and unique photos of your feline friend that you can treasure for years to come. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of capturing your cat’s beauty and personality in photographs.
