Props I Bring to Your In-Home Cat Photoshoot

If you’re considering booking a professional cat photoshoot, you might be wondering:

Should I buy props?
Will my cat cooperate?
Will it look staged?

Short answer: You don’t need to buy anything. I bring everything we might need, and we keep it simple.

Here are a few of the props I use during in-home cat photography sessions and why they work.

Yarn Pom-Poms

Pom-poms engage cats without causing dilated “hunting” eyes. I pose cats by using their own curiosity.

Felt Balls

Ever wonder how I get a cat’s curiosity going just enough for the perfect photo? Meet my secret weapon: felt ball toys on a string with a a tiny bell on the end!

They’re simple yet intriguing, designed to spark just the right amount of interest without turning the session into a playtime frenzy.

Feathers

I use feathers to get a cat’s attention, and if they end up in the photo, that’s fine because they look nice.

Flowers

I grow a cutting garden and bring cat-safe blooms when in season.

Flowers instantly elevate your photos by softening the frame and adding depth.

A vase of flowers can enhance your cat’s photos.

Houseplants

It’s no secret that my favorite prop is houseplants!

Professional in-home cat photography isn’t about bringing a studio into your house. It’s about seeing your space differently and using it artfully.

A new houseplant brings out the curiosity in most cats. Moving an existing plant to a new windowsill often works too.

Blankets

A cozy blanket helps your shy cat feel safe. My style is to show your cat in its natural environment, so I’ll work the angles to make your house look interesting. That’s the difference between a snapshot and artwork.

Teacups

Cats can’t resist water pouring into a teacup. I inherited these espresso cups from Great Grandma Hoglund, but we can use your heirloom china too!

I have these espresso cups and saucers in six colors, and I can bring them to your cat’s photo session.

Sometimes, it’s the look of pure disapproval that makes the shot! Placed on a coffee table, it looks like your cat is casually hosting brunch.

Fake Jello

I can bring this Jello prop to your cat’s photoshoot. It’s unexpected, fun, and it photographs beautifully.

This would be fun as artwork for your kitchen!

Origami cranes

Origami cranes on a string are a fun prop idea for cat photoshoots. They add movement, color, and interesting shadows without looking like a plastic cat toy. They create just enough curiosity without sending your cat into chaos mode.

I don’t use costumes or novelty outfits. My focus is timeless, artful portraits that feel at home on your walls.

I bring a giant bag of cat toys and props to every photoshoot, so if you’re not sure what your cat will like, don’t worry. We’ll test various options and let your cat decide what interests them.

Does your cat deserve a photoshoot? Head over to my contact page, or take a peek at my style of photography on my cat portfolio.

About Karen Hoglund Photography