10 Easy Steps To Take Great Picture Of Your Cat

I have been taking Goma's pictures almost everyday for two and half years. I don't have a fancy camera, it's not even digital SLR. The equipment definitely matters and it helps to take better photo. I don't have the top of the line camera but I still manage to take great photos of Goma. Today I want to share a couple of tips with you so you can enjoy taking your cat's picture!

1. Choose the day time, not the night time.

The best pictures of Goma come out from a daytime shoot in a room with plenty of sunlight. The natural light normally brings out the best of a cat such as the beautiful details in their coat and hair! Also you will be able to take a sharper picture. Be aware of back-light, especially by the window. Back-light always makes the subject dark and flat, if that happens, try shooting them from a different angle where more sunlight hits the subject.

2. Play with interesting angles!

Do you ever wonder why every picture you take of your cat looks the same? Even though it is in a different place, etc... Try shooting them from another angle! For example, a slightly lower angle can make your cat look really cute! Also, try from the same eye level as your cat or even directly from above! You will see some interesting picture as a result!

3. No Flash!

Flash makes everything flat and the colors sharp. Goma hates flashes so I try to avoid it as much as possible. If you must take a picture in a dark room at night try extra lights. Flash makes everything flat and gives red eyes!

4. Pay attention to the background.

Taking pictures in a somewhat simple background makes the photo look professional.

5. Focus on different body-parts of the cat to accentuate their character.

Goma has many great body-parts such as his manly big paws, magnificent whiskers, fluffy coat, and stunning blue eyes. So why not focus on those features? A close-up of these body-parts are always a great way to bring out the best of your cat!

6. Choose an environment where cats are most comfortable.

Don't force it. Cats gets stressed when they are uncomfortable. Don't bring the cat outside if the cat has never been outside, it will just make everything difficult and your picture will reflect that. Try taking pictures when your cat is relaxed and comfortable in their environment.

7. Use the toys, treats or even make a noise to grab their attention.

I know it is very hard to make your cat look at the camera. I Use everything and anything that Goma likes to grab his attention, such as bonito flakes. I shake them right next to my camera, it works every time!

8. Use props.

Sometimes I use props to make the photo more interesting. One day, I placed my glasses on Goma, that was really funny. Another time when Goma was sleeping on the floor, I put a big teddy-bear next to him and took a picture to make it look like they were sleeping together.

9. Shoot it when your cat's eyes dilate for maximum cuteness.

I find Goma looks the cutest when his eyes are dilated. Period. However, it is very difficult to take a picture of that because cat's eyes dilate in the night time. Well, I found the perfect time to shoot it! I do it inside the room in a cloudy day and also early in the morning and evening.

10. Patient patient patient.

Cats are independent and unpredictable. Be patient with them always, don't force it ever. Don't try to take the perfect picture in one single take, take as many picture as you can! There will always be one photo that you will like. Normally, I can tell when it's a good time for Goma to take his picture. I don't want to do it when he is running around chasing Syd or sleeping under the bed. Be patient, there is always a perfect picture moment for your cats, just wait for it!

Lastly one more tip... It's ok to cheat guys. Play with photoshop! Use it to brighten the picture, it brings out more detail. Whatever you can do to make the picture better, by all means do it! But be careful of over doing it...you don't want your photos to look unnatural. Well that's it! I hope this post is helpful to everyone who loves taking pictures of cats!!

Sachie Tani is best known as creator of "My Himalayan Cat Goma" Blog, featuring the world famous feline Goma. http://mycatgoma.com

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