Photographing animals

[Geoff2]

Originally Posted by TenthDoctor

I'm doing a photography course right now, as part of my media degree; and as our final assignment due in May, we have to do a portfolio of ten pictures. I'm thinking of photographing my cat, he's a good subject as he likes to pose and easy to work with.

See example here: http://murdoch.usshorizon.org/course...-1023-full.jpg

My question would be, for those of you who've done animal photography, any tips? tricks? words of advise or inspiration? (any famous photographers who appealed to you, etc)

Any help, tips, and all would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Cats are probably one of the most difficult pets to photograph: if they 'switch off' no amount of cajoling will persuade them otherwise, unlike dogs. It will take two of you: one playing person with toys playing with the cat. Studio flash doesn't seem to bother cats and if the modelling lamps are turned down or of you get nice dilated pupils but try not to use flash on the camera or you will have some 'photoshopping' to due. One way to get good expressions is to shut the cat or cats in a basket or hamper; make sure your lights and camera are all set up ready to go then flip the lid of the basket open at the last minute and grab some shots as they oke their heads up to look around.

[Zamm]

Jane Burton: http://www.warrenphotographic.co.uk/wp_jane_burton.htm

[Steffanyace]

There is a famous photographer that takes pics of his weimaraners dressed up like people. I can't think of the guy's name, but you could probably Google it.