Pet Exchange Corner

Michele West has been a professional photographer a lot of of her life. She considers herself fortunate to have examined photography early when it was still “film” as well as in the style of the fantastic masters. Henri Cartier-Bresson, who is thought about the daddy of picture journalism, as well as who coined the term, “the definitive moment,” was one of her fantastic inspirations.  The definitive moment is waiting on all the aspects to find completely together.

Michele started out doing street photography in new York City, where she did freelance work, events, as well as likewise started a portrait business. She then focused on her own special vision, doing fine art photography, which she offers on Etsy as well as at craft shows.

Michele handled a feral colony of 6 cats for five years. She was able to win their depend on as well as love, as well as embraced one of their infants who was always discovered crying as well as alone under the shed. After she moved, she lost three of them; two died in her arms as well as one went missing. Michele realized that being included with cats was both enthusiasm as well as calling. Michele started volunteering at Homeward Trails, as well as began photographing their cats. She realized what a big difference great photos can make in boosting their possibilities of discovering their permanently homes.

How did you get started photographing cats?

I started out photographing my feral cats as well as my infant Maya, then the rescue cats where I volunteer. I am now photographing for a number of different rescue groups, to ensure that the photos can be utilized to assist them get adopted. I am always surprised to see the photos as well as the essence of each cat. I am mesmerized by their beauty, love, as well as intelligence.

How do you technique a picture shoot with a cat?

Very carefully, slowly, as well as low key. I reach out my hand as well as let them odor me as well as then pet them. If that goes well as well as it normally does, I instantly begin taking pictures.

How do you get a feline to look at the camera?

I pet them as well as speak to them. I step around them. I phone call their name. If all else fails, I provide them a treat, perhaps some catnip. If needed I have somebody hold a toy that they like over the lens behind me.

What is the most difficult experience you had while photographing a cat?

A relatively just recently embraced feline hid under the bed the entire time. The new guardian was not conscious that she would do that. We tried moving the bed, to no avail. lastly I brought a lamp over as well as had to light the area under the bed as well as took the photos that way.

What is the funniest experience you had while photographing a cat?

I was photographing some new kitties as well as one of the older cats who I instantly fell in like with desired some attention, so while I was on my knees, he came over as well as sat on my calves. It was so funny as well as so sweet.

Do you have any type of ideas for our visitors on exactly how to get great pictures of cats?

Turn off the flash!

If you are in a low light situation, you will requirement to utilize a higher ISO (film speed) as well as a broader aperture to let in a lot more light. A broader aperture will likewise blur the background to ensure that the focus on the feline will pop.

Watch your backgrounds, to ensure that nothing is distracting. look for soft, even lighting, unless you are going for a special effect. enjoy your color balance; depending upon your camera, you can right it in-camera in the settings. For example, if you are shooting under florescent lights, the photo will have a eco-friendly cast.

You will normally requirement to do a bit editing after taking photos. It doesn’t have to be Photoshop, there are lots of basic programs you can utilize to right contrast, sharpness, as well as color. Don’t be terrified to explore different filters as well as effects.

If you are extremely serious, I would suggest a DSLR cam with a truly great lens. I personally like a fixed lens as compared to a zoom. I utilize a 35mm lens with a 1.8 aperture opening.

Focus on cats’ eyes as well as show a reflection of light in their eyes (catchlights). are available in close. Take a great deal of pictures! method on your friend’s cats. research study the work of other photographers, particularly the masters.

Put your emotion as well as special vision into your photographs. wait on the purrfect moment when whatever comes together purrfectly.

For a lot more info about Michele, as well as to see a lot more of her stunning photos, please go to .

Ingrid King

Table of Contents
How did you get started photographing cats?
How do you technique a picture shoot with a cat?
How do you get a feline to look at the camera?
What is the most difficult experience you had while photographing a cat?
What is the funniest experience you had while photographing a cat?
Do you have annull