I’ll be honest, photographing shy cats has it’s challenges, and our first photo shoot for Frida and Khalo went belly up. I entered a lounge room full of loud activity, with everyone feeling excited and nervous. The cats, as a result, were not happy. Especially as they’d been wrangled into a closed room! So I decided to ignore the cats initially, knowing that’s what they needed from a quick assessment of the situation, and put my attention into calming the family. It took a moment for everyone to understand that their hyper energy was putting the cats on edge!
Eventually we achieved a sense of calm, but unfortunately this didn’t transfer to the cats. We pulled out all our usual tricks, but Frida and Khalo were simply not receptive. After multiple unsuccessful attempts I suggested coming back on a different day. Despite meeting and photographing shy cats regularly, this was only the 2nd time in 17 years of pet photography that I’d needed to do this. But before we tried again I asked for a few changes to facilitate happier cats. Simply put, “chill out!” was our main instruction for the family. They could dress for the photo shoot, but should continue with their usual activities instead of focusing on the cats. Keeping them inside, but not locking them in a room, was also important.
As I suspected, this created a very different atmosphere and Frida and Khalo were much more relaxed during the second photo shoot. In fact the whole family were relaxed and quiet. We managed to get quite a few lovely shots of Khalo straight away, with Frida becoming more confident later. We even captured a fantastic family photo which you can see below. My favourite image is the one of Frida in the window, with her reflection. Even the dirty window adds to the mood!
Firstly, what is your favourite thing about Frida & Khalo?
My two “girls” want to be with me all the time. I can’t remember the last time I had time alone. From sitting with me in the toilet or on the bathroom cabinet whilst I have a shower they are there. I love how Frida, the biggest of the two, is timid whilst the smallest, Khalo, is the bossiest who always stands over Frida.
Frida and Khalo have gone from being feral bush kitties to fussy Princesses.
We know every fur baby is unique, & in your totally unbiased opinion you have the best pets ever!
What makes yours so special?
My girls are so special because every time I arrive home they meet me and are so excited to see me.
Tell us something about Frida & Khalo that will make us laugh?
Bossy Khalo likes to dominate Frida by walking past her as if she is not interested in Frida (won’t make eye contact) then she backs up and stands on Frida with her back legs.
Poor Frida.
Why is having beautiful imagery of your pets important to you?
They are part of the family and furry sisters to my human boys.
Still concerned your cats may be too shy for photography? We’d be happy to chat about it, simply book a consult!
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