Snap Up Some CATitude

Transform ordinary moments into extraordinary photos with these simple techniques and ideas for capturing your cat’s fun loving spirit.

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Patience is a Pawsitive Thing

Your cat is an unpredictable and frustrating creature. You never know when it might move, sleep or be in the mood for fun. So, patience is key when capturing the best cat fun! 

Observe your cat’s routine to anticipate when naptime ends and the energy begins to build, just like the Olympic Games. One helpful tip: avoid the 3 AM zoomies. This is NOT a good time to run about in your jammies.

One thing to remember

If you miss what you feel is a fantastic shot, don’t stress. I missed so many shots and been so hard on myself until I took a breath and moved on to the next wild kitty moment. It will happen!

The Power of Play

Settings for action cat photos include:

• Burst Mode (Smartphone)
• Sport Mode
• TV/T mode for good practice

Favourite toys, and the power of a catnip toy can help spark a cat’s curiosity and willingness to play. If you can get hold of the YEOWW (US) (UK) ‘nip nanner this is an epic banana shaped toy that is loved by most cats. Or, if you have a moving toy like Caroline’s Cats Electric Rotating Butterfly Cat Toy reviewed by the Kitties Blue you can use your fast modes to capture action shots.

“If you ask Kitties Blue, this is the best cat toy ever invented.“

Kitties Blue

Why not involve a friend who might be prepared to spend some time helping you generate extra excitement. Use a red dot toy to spark spontaneous moments and remember to turn on your ‘Sport’ mode or Tv/T on a DSLR/Mirrorless camera. 

Kitty Treat Time

As well as catnip, you might find your cat ‘will work for treats’ (in moderation!)

Try this idea. For walking forward photos set up a line of two or three treats and be ready the moment your cat sets off towards you. The treats can be lined up on the floor, on a sofa or a table the key is to have your motion/fast settings ready to shoot. I have some cool walking shots from the garden.

If you are not sure, try a try run with no cat, plan your moves:

• Where will you put the treats?
• How many steps between the last treat and where you need to be to take your shots?
• Will you be holding your camera as you lay out the treats? Or not?
• Where is or will your cat be starting from?

The Best Shots Happen

Remember, the best shots often happen when you least expect it. So stay alert, be patient and ready to capture those precious moments. If something doesn’t work too well, change your settings. Exposure is a bugbear for many so know how to change the settings on your camera.