Ten Tips for Photographing a Reluctant Cat
Cats are some of the most amazing animals to photograph. Their eyes shine like gems. Their sleek, sinuous bodies create the most amazing lines and poses. Whether a diamond of a housecat or a scruffy street cat, felines are beautiful creatures. However, cats are also often timid, shy, finicky, nervous, anxious, or just want things done in their own way and in their own time. A photo session with a cat can be challenging!
What happens when a photo session does not go as planned? Here are a few tips on how to get photographs of your Reluctant Cat.
Take your time. Allow your cat to get used to any equipment you may be using. If you have a studio setup with lights and a camera, set it up and leave it for a while. Let the cat inspect it at his own pace. Take a few photos and give praise and / or treats after every photo. Make the session a positive experience.
Close any doors out of the room you are using for your photo session. This limits the number of spaces your cat can hide.
Stay calm. Cats can feel and react to your emotions. If you get upset or feel anxious, your cat will as well.
Have a backup plan! Better yet, have more than one backup plan! If one plan doesn’t work for your cat, try something else. If a raised table with a backdrop doesn’t work, try a favorite blanket, bed, or basket. If that doesn’t work, an ottoman or chair in front of the backdrop may be more to your cat’s liking. If those don’t work, follow your cat around and try some lifestyle shots!
Don’t forget to try cat treats and toys! A spray of liquid catnip might keep Kitty where you want her just long enough to snap a few photos. A favorite toy might get Kitty’s attention for a couple of photos as well.
Take breaks. If your cat is stressed or getting tired of the attention, take a break! Let Kitty calm down and destress for a while. Let him move around and explore. Play with him! Try again in 15 minutes to half an hour.
Praise and love can go a long way. Treats, pettings, soft encouraging words when Kitty does what you are looking for can get results. Start these as soon as possible in the photo session.
If your cat cannot tolerate a flash, try a continuous light or natural lighting.
If your cat will not look at the camera, don’t stress it! A cat’s profile is beautiful. Not every great cat photo has the cat looking at the camera. Even if Kitty will not look at the camera you can still get a photo you will love.
Finally, know when your cat has had enough. If Kitty is simply not into it, the photo session will be stressful for everyone. Know when to walk away and try again another day.
