Cat Photography in London: Portraits with Personality
The first cat I photographed in the studio was called Barkley. Which, given the name, I found rather ironic. I'd spent days preparing - researching what cats respond to, stocking up on treats, toys, and even catnip spray to make the backdrop more intriguing. I was ready for anything. Or so I thought.
Within minutes, I realised cats are not as easily lured as dogs. Barkley, however, was a dream to start with. He lives with a dog, so he has that wonderfully chilled, adaptable nature. He loves heights, so I set up a stool against a gorgeous, textured blue backdrop, and, true to himself, he settled in happily. We found a rhythm together - a balance of letting him explore and giving him just enough to spark his interest.
That session was my introduction into the world of cat photography in
London - a journey that has been surprising, funny, and endlessly rewarding.
Why cat portraits matter
Photographing cats is not about coaxing them into a pose or making them do something for the camera. It's about catching them in their element — their quirks, their quiet power, and their little moments of playfulness. Every cat I've met in the studio has reminded me that authenticity is everything.
When I think back to my recent pop-up event at Battersea Power Station, I met so many cats of different breeds and personalities. A Bengal cat stands out most vividly. I'd admired their beauty but had never met one until that day. He strutted in with his Vizsla brother, posed together and alone, and then gave me this unforgettable "cross-legged walk" as he bounded towards the camera. He was playful, regal, and completely himself. That's exactly what I love to
capture - the personality that makes each cat unlike any other.
Every cat has their own way of moving - their portraits become a reflection of that individuality. If you’d like to explore cat photography for your own companion, you can visit my pet portrait page to learn more. I’d love to meet your cat, discover what makes them unique, and create portraits that reflect their true personality.
Setting the studio for cats
Working with cats in a London studio is about patience and subtlety. I always set up with their comfort in mind:
Catnip spray to make the paper backdrop more inviting.
A stool or soft bed for those who prefer a higher or cosier position.
Toys and treats - though, as I quickly learned, not all cats are easily swayed by them.
The key is letting the cat explore the space. While they sniff, climb, or watch from a corner, I'm observing too. It tells me how they want to interact, what they're comfortable with, and how best to bring out their personality in portraits.
Dogs are often happy to be guided with food or toys - cats, not so much. With cats, I've found myself thinking more on my feet, tuning into their signals, and adapting as we go. Their humans are usually brilliant at sharing what their cat loves, which makes such a difference. Sessions naturally unfold at the cat's pace, with plenty of breaks whenever they need them.
Preparing for a cat portrait session
If you're a London cat guardian thinking about a session, here's what can really help:
Grooming: A light groom close to the session date (but not the day before or on the day).
Familiar items: Their favourite toys, treats, or even a blanket they love to curl up on.
Patience: Every cat's pace is different - some warm up quickly, others take time. Both are completely fine.
Think of it less as "posing" your cat and more as creating a space where they feel comfortable enough to be themselves. That's when the portraits really shine.
Studio vs outdoors
So far, all of my cat sessions have been in the studio, which works beautifully for most cats. It's safe, quiet, and controlled - ideal for cats who might not enjoy outdoor adventures. But I'm also really excited to take cat photography outside one day.
Just as with dogs, cats can be photographed safely on a lead, which I can remove in post-production. I can't wait for my first urban cat session on the streets of
London - imagining a confident cat strolling through the minimalist London architecture or intensely peering around from a stoop of a doorstep. It won't suit every cat, but for the adventurous ones, it could be magical.
What I've learned from cats
I'll be honest - when I photographed my first cat, I thought it might be easier than it was. Barkley proved otherwise, but in the gentlest, most rewarding way. Photographing cats has challenged me to slow down, to observe more closely, and to think differently than I do with dogs.
It's also made me consider cats in my own life. My dog, Theodore, is utterly obsessed with cats - in the most polite, respectful way possible. We joke at home that she might be part cat herself. We've talked about bringing a kitten into our home for her as a friend, and these sessions have only strengthened that thought. Theo even met Barkley after his shoot and was completely smitten.
Through these experiences, I've picked up some valuable lessons in "cat language" that continue to evolve. It's a process of ongoing learning, and every cat I meet teaches me something new.
Gentle guidance for cat guardians
From what I've seen in my sessions so far, here are some gentle truths about cats that make all the difference:
Cats need time to feel safe. Same as with dogs, forcing them never works - patience does.
Positive reinforcement (treats, toys, praise) is the best way to encourage them.
Breaks are part of the process. Sometimes the loveliest portraits happen right after a pause.
For me, that's part of the joy. Unlike dogs, cats won't "perform" on request - they gift you moments when they're ready. And when they do, those moments are unforgettable.
What I hope cat guardians take away from these portraits is more than just a beautiful image. It's the knowledge that their cat was seen for who they truly are - quirks, elegance, stubborn streaks and all. That someone took the time to work with them, not against them, to create something authentic.
Whether in my London studio or, one day, outdoors on the city streets, cat photography is about celebrating that individuality. Every flick of the tail, every steady gaze, every burst of play - it all tells a story.
Quick Guide: Cat Photography in London
Where do sessions take place?
Same as my dog sessions, studio photography sessions can take place in my home in Wimbledon or yours. I do my sessions in home environments so the pets are relaxed in a familiar environment, where it’s quiet, safe, and controlled. Outdoor cat photography is possible too for adventurous cats, always with a lead for safety (removed in post-production).
How long does a session last?
Each cat sets the pace. Sessions usually take 1–2 hours, with breaks whenever your cat needs them.
How do you help cats feel comfortable?
I let cats explore first, use catnip spray on backdrops, and have stools, beds, toys, and treats ready. I always adapt to their preferences.
What should owners bring?
Favourite toys and treats
A blanket or bed they love
Grooming done shortly before (but not on the day)
What kind of photos can I expect?
From soulful close-ups and elegant poses to playful leaps and curious explorations - every portrait reflects your cat’s true personality.
Interested in celebrating your cat with a photography session?
Explore more on my pet portrait page to see how a session could capture your own cat’s story.
