Senior cat in a mountain meadow

5 Tips for Photographing Older Cats

Is your kitty getting up in years? A senior cat photoshoot should be on their bucket list! Here are some of my best tips for photographing older cats.

1. Embrace imperfections.

Older cats possess unique features that reveal the stories of their life experiences. Cats are incredibly adorable despite the physical changes they undergo as they age.

Orange tabby cat looking intently at the camera during an outdoor photo session.
18-year-old Oliver’s family almost cancelled his photoshoot because his coat wasn’t what it used to be.
Sure, his fur isn’t as shiny as when he was a kitten, but he’s still a majestic subject.
Gray cat with one eye laying on couch with blue pom pom for portrait
Gracie’s missing eye was part of her story and charm.

2. Capture their everyday habits.

Don’t force your cat to sit in an unusual spot for a photo opportunity. 15-year-old Lola was shy and most comfortable sitting by the foot of the bed. Thanks to a sunbeam, that was a perfectly fine spot for her portrait.

American Shorthair cat with gray and tan coat sitting in sunbeam by side of bed

You might take it for granted that your cat hangs out in a relatively common spot, but this is a memory that you’ll cherish after they are gone.

3. Keep senior cat photoshoots short.

Pay attention to signs of discomfort or stress. Be gentle if you need to adjust their position for a better shot. If you have other pets, I can photograph them while your senior cat takes a beauty rest in between shots.

Orange cat outdoors by a green bush surrounded by tall grass.
Oliver’s family also had dogs, so I photographed them when he wanted to go inside for a break. It turned out he just wanted to go inside because he needed to use his litter box. And when he returned to the yard, he had extra energy. It’s always a good idea to follow a cat’s lead, whatever their age!

4. Put a heating pad under a blanket.

Hide a heating pad under your cat’s favorite blanket to keep them cozy and happy. Your cat will feel more relaxed, surrounded by familiar scents and warmth.

Senior Seal Point Siamese cat under a green blanket at end of life photoshoot demonstrating how to keep an older cat comfortable during a pet photoshoot.
Charlie, the 18-year-old Seal Point Siamese, was cozy during his end-of-life photoshoot.

5. Use silent mode on your camera.

Older cats may be sensitive to loud noises. Turn your phone or camera to silent mode. I always keep my camera set to silent for animals.

Try to schedule your photo session when your cat is usually calm and comfortable, such as after a meal or a nap.

Calm cats, candid shots

What quirks make you smile when you think of your cat? Sometimes, the most meaningful photos are captured during everyday moments, like your cat cuddling on the couch or in its favorite sunny window.

See my Cat Portfolio

Some older cats develop a playful grumpiness that adds to their charm. They may have a certain “cattitude” that makes them endearing.

Gray cat on chair during a photoshoot for a Senior Cat
With patience, I got Mariposa to think sitting on this chair was her idea.
Photographer playing with cat at an older senior cat photoshoot
A client sent this photo of me introducing myself to 18-year-old Mariposa at the beginning of the photoshoot.

Cats are full of surprises, so it’s crucial to have a flexible photographer. During the photo session, I’ll adapt to your cat’s preferences.

Check out Charlie’s photo album!

If you have a photoshoot with me, I’ll give your senior cat a lot of breaks. If necessary, I’ll even return on another day – at no extra charge.

Contact me for a cat photoshoot for your senior kitty!

Orange tabby cat walking through tall grass during an outdoor photography session.

About Karen Hoglund Photography

Karen Hoglund, Denver cat photographer, with her cat, Mr. Butter – a buff tabby wearing a bow tie

About the photographer: Karen Hoglund is a professional pet photographer based in Denver, CO. She specializes in dog and cat portraits that are works of art for your home. Each photoshoot is created uniquely around your pet’s needs so they’ll feel at ease. For more information, please call 720-238-3337, visit Karen’s portfolio and follow Karen on Facebook or Instagram.