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Posing Cats and Other Small Animals

Since you will most likely be inside, try to find an uncluttered area with some natural light. If possible, you may be able to photograph a cat or other small animal without a handler actually holding the animal.

Placing a small animal on a high area such as a table or windowsill can help to keep them relatively immobile while you try to photograph them. Your handler should always be close by though to make sure the animal doesn't fall. If the animal is free to move around it most likely will do so. Try to follow the animal with your lens and watch the background and the animal position.

If the animal won't stay still for you long enough to take a photograph, your handler may have to hold it. This is ok, just try your best to keep your handler or parts of your handler out of the frame. I usually ask my handlers to wear a dark blue or black long sleeve shirt so that if part of their arm or shoulder make it into the frame it is not too distracting.

Once you get the cat or other small animal to stay still for you, you will need to decide if you want to take a full length or portrait photograph.

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