Different Portraits Different Ideas

I have been helping with the Cat Writers Communication Contest this past week so time for photos was limited but I have a couple of very different portraits that capture different facets of a cat personality that I hope will make you think a bit.

Cat Portraits

You all know I encourage you to think a bit differently with your cat portraits. I know you can create wonderful images just pushing yourself a small step further.

Yes, you want the pin sharp shots of the cat you love, and your cat’s gorgeous coat, or markings. Beautiful eyes are a must but, once you have those, you can introduce a spirit of adventure into your captures?

Here are two different but interesting shots that show you it is not just a full face shot of a cat sat or stood that can be a portrait.

Profile Closeup

This is an indoor shot of Jack our senior. He looks thoughtful and there is a peaceful air about him. I was adventurous myself using my Nikon Z50 for a very closeup shot, indoors in a dim room, resting it on the duvet.

• You could achieve a similar result with a smartphone camera although you might have to add a little bit of soft focus ‘bokeh’ later on if your portrait mode struggles.

Double Exposure Portrait

I have begun to showcase some of the fun things a mirrorless camera can do, including double exposures in the camera itself. This is different to using layers like those in Sienna’s celebration portrait.

This portrait shows Toulouse in prowl post layered underneath a simple exposure of grass in our garden.

Double exposures are a bit of a gamble. For one that works a dozen will not. If one does work it gives you a different view of your cat in action. I have cropped the image a lot to focus in on the tabby shape.

Once you have a good portrait, be brave and fearless and let the spirit of adventure take your cat portraits further!