by (Livin' La Vida) Mocha
<Click> ::blink:: ::blink::
English Translation:
Learn to take picture purr-fect shots of
your cat. You cannot make a cat
smile, nor will kitty promise to hold still while you
frantically try to focus
and frame the magic moment. When it comes to photography
and cats,
you need to be ready to capture their antics on film as
they happen.
Here are 10 basic tips on better
picture taking:
1) Rely on basic equipment.
Amateur photographers don't need to shell out a lot of
money for expensive camera equipment. A 35mm or digital
camera with a removable flash is recommended. Helpful
accessories include translucent white diffusers for the
flash, additional lenses for closeups, and a tripod to
steady the shot.
2) Clear up "Red Eye".
Get the flash source away from the body of the  camera to avoid
this very common problem. Red eye happens because the
light that passes through the cat's pupil hits the retina
and bounces straight back to the film. You should always
have your flash at least 6 inches off the film plane (the
camera). For many cameras you can buy an auxiliary
handheld flash that can be put on a cord so your cat can
be illumionated off center. An indirect flash is also
healthier for your pet because the flash won't cause
temporary blindness.
3) Pick the right film speed.
A film speed of 100ASA is recommended rather than the
more popular 400ASA. The lower the ASA, the finer the
grain of the image you're going to get. Your picture will
be sharper and show more fur detail.
4) Select puposeful poses.
A typical picture of a cat is of it sleeping, because
they sleep 16 hours a day. Look for the rarer moments
when they are actually moving. Great shots often require
team work. Have another person ruffle or smooth fur, or
hold a treat in the direction you wish the cat to be
looking.
 5)
Bribe them with treats. Select a
favorite food treat to serve during photo sessions. They
will be much more cooperative and willing to hang around
for a few extra shots.
6) Respect their dignity.
Take photos that depict cats natural behaviors. Avoid
making them perform tricks, or even worse - wearing
costumes.
7) Know your cat's routine.
Cats are habitual creatures. They like set routines, so
use this to your advantage when you bring out the camera.
If you watch patiently, you'll discover their distinctive
patterns and antics and be better prepared to capture
them on film.
 8)
Vary your angles. Most amateur
photographers simply stand a few feet away from their
cats and snap their photos. Take photos from a variety of
angles. If your cat is sleeping on its scratching post,
lie down on the floor and shoot at your cat's eye level.
Or try close up shots and ones in which you stand
directly overhead.
9) Give your photos an edge. Use the
outer edges of a photo rather than centering everything.
With a camera you are capturing a rectangle of what
exists. The world isn't always dead center. Often times,
its chaotic, unpredictable, and off center.
10) Scope out the background. Once
you've lined up your photo, before you press the shutter,
check your background. is there clutter that might be
distracting? Or does something in the background add to
the mood you're trying to set? You don't want something
strange growing out of your cat, but sometimes background
objects can really add a playful tone.
Now - practice, practice, practice!
The real secret is to take
a lot of photos and experiment with what works for you,
your camera, and your cat.
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