How can I get my cat to stay calm and look natural for photos?
Asked 11/7/2011
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2 answers
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My cat gets distracted, won’t sit still for long, and often tries to rub against or grab the camera when I point it at them. I’d like to take more natural-looking pet photos without stressing them out. What can I do to help a cat get comfortable around the camera and improve my chances of getting good shots?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
5
I have found that the biggest problem with cats is getting them used to the camera. If the camera is something new they will be fascinated by it which is why they rub up against it. Also never use flash with a cat. It annoys them and they will disappear next time they see the camera.
When you want to take shots of your cat you have to be patient and wait for the cat to do things that are worth shooting rather than trying to get them to perform using toys. Toys just get them excited and all you will tend to get are blurred shots of the back end of a cat disappearing out of shot. Best thing to do is leave the camera out where the cats can see it for a few days then snap shots when the cats are at ease, that way you will end up with nice natural shots. Once they are used to the sight and sound of the camera they just ignore it.
Also try using a long lens, something like a 70-200, which will allow you to get closup shots from the other side of a room. The cats won't know your photographing them and will just carry on doing cat stuff while you shoot away.
Originally by user6603. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user6603
14y ago
0
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The main trick is to work with the cat rather than trying to force a pose. Let the cat get used to both the location and the camera first—leave the camera out for a few days so it becomes familiar, and give the cat time to sniff around before shooting. Avoid flash, since it can annoy cats and make them wary of the camera.
Be patient and look for natural moments instead of trying to make the cat perform. Toys can help distract them, but they may also make them too excited and lead to blurry action. Often the best results come when the cat is relaxed, sleepy, or resting on a familiar blanket or cushion.
You can also embrace their normal behavior: photograph them playing, running, or lounging instead of expecting them to pose like a person. If you want more control, basic clicker training with treats can help teach simple behaviors and reward calm attention.
In short: make the camera familiar, skip flash, shoot when the cat is relaxed, and capture natural behavior rather than forcing poses.
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