Cat Photo Sessions To-Do List: 7 Tips to Prepare

Capturing Your Cat’s Best Moments (Yes, It’s Possible!)

Let’s be honest—cats do what they want, when they want, and the idea of getting them to pose for a photo can sound downright laughable. But with a little planning, a cat photo session can go from chaotic to magical. Whether you want to capture their playful antics or their majestic “I rule this house” stare, preparation is key. Here are seven tips to help you and your feline friend get the best out of your session.

1. Choose the Right Time (Hint: Not During Nap O’Clock)

Timing is everything when it comes to cat photoshoots. You don’t want to schedule your session when your cat is in deep nap mode (which, let’s be honest, is 80% of the day). Pay attention to when your cat is naturally active—maybe they get zoomies after breakfast or turn into an acrobat at sunset. Finding their peak energy time ensures more lively and expressive photos.

If your cat is more of a couch potato, you might need to encourage a little movement beforehand. Try engaging them with a feather wand or a laser pointer to get them in the mood for the session. But remember—once they’ve had enough, they’ve had enough. Pushing a cat past their comfort zone is a recipe for grumpy expressions and indignant tail flicks.

2. Create a Comfortable Environment (Because Change Is Suspicious)

Cats are creatures of habit, and a sudden change in their environment can make them more skeptical than a detective in a noir film. For the best cat photography session, keep the setting familiar. Whether it’s your cozy living room or their favorite sun-drenched window ledge, choosing a place where they feel safe will help them relax. Declutter the area, add a comfy blanket, and maybe throw in their favorite toy to keep them engaged.

Lighting is also an important factor. Natural light is always best for showcasing a cat’s fur texture and eye color. If possible, choose a space with large windows and soft, indirect light. Harsh flashes can startle cats, so if extra lighting is needed, using a softbox or diffused light source will help create a more natural look.

3. Props and Accessories for a Purrfect Cat Photography Experience

Sure, a tiny bowtie or a festive bandana can make your cat look like the dapper star they are, but let’s not push our luck. Some cats love a little accessorizing, while others will act like you just insulted their entire lineage. If your cat tolerates props, keep it minimal—perhaps a stylish collar or their beloved stuffed mouse. The goal is to enhance their natural charm, not start a standoff.

You can also incorporate props that match their personality. A mischievous cat might look great next to a tipped-over houseplant (as if they had nothing to do with it). A regal feline might enjoy posing on a velvet pillow. These small details can add character to the final photos.

4. Ensure Your Cat is Well-Behaved (Or at Least Somewhat Cooperative)

Good luck with this one! But seriously, a little pre-session playtime can help burn off excess energy so your cat isn’t bouncing off the walls (unless that’s the vibe you’re going for). Treats can also be a great motivator—positive reinforcement works wonders when convincing your feline overlord to participate in the session.

If your cat is particularly shy, consider a calm lead-up to the session. Play soft music, speak in a gentle voice, and let them explore the camera equipment at their own pace. Rushing the process will only lead to stress, so take your time and let them warm up naturally.

5. Familiarize Your Cat with the Photographer (Strangers? Suspicious.)

If someone else is photographing your cat, a casual meet-and-greet beforehand can work wonders. Let your cat sniff around, observe, and establish that the camera-wielding human is not, in fact, a threat to their kingdom. This helps create a relaxed atmosphere where your cat is more likely to be themselves.

For particularly skittish cats, consider scheduling a short pre-session visit where the photographer simply hangs out without taking photos. This can help the cat feel more comfortable when the real session begins. (BTW, that’s me below getting to know a cat client before a session. And yes, I know about the bald spot)

6. Plan for Patience (Because Cats Run the Show)

Unlike dogs, who are generally eager to please, cats operate on their own schedule. Some will ham it up for the camera, while others will pretend you don’t exist. That’s okay! The best photo session with your cat happens when you go with the flow. Take breaks if needed, let your cat dictate the pace, and don’t stress if they take a mid-session grooming break—those candid moments can make for some of the best shots.

Patience is especially important for capturing those perfect eye-contact moments. Cats aren’t always keen on looking directly at the camera, so using a quiet noise (or even their favorite treat) can help grab their attention. Just be prepared for them to lose interest in approximately 0.3 seconds.

7. Have Fun! (Because That’s the Whole Point)

At the end of the day, this is about capturing your cat’s personality and the love you share. Whether they’re striking a regal pose, rolling around in a sunbeam, or batting at the camera lens, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience. Some of the best photos happen when you let your cat be their wonderfully unpredictable self.

Expect a mix of beautiful portraits and hilarious outtakes. Some of the most memorable cat photos come from their unexpected reactions—whether it’s a mid-yawn moment that looks like an opera performance or a dramatic flop onto their side. The unpredictability of cats is what makes these sessions so special.

Ready to Book Your Cat’s Close-Up?

If you’re ready to turn your feline friend into the star they were born to be, let’s schedule a professional cat photography session! I specialize in capturing the quirks, beauty, and undeniable charm of cats in a fun and stress-free way. Whether your cat is a camera-loving diva or a bit more on the shy side, I know how to create an experience that keeps them comfortable while delivering stunning photos. Contact me today to book a session and let’s create some unforgettable cat magic.