Can Cats (and Other Pets) Have an Outdoor Photoshoot? Here’s What You Need to Know
One of the most common questions I get as a pet photographer in Florida is: Can my cat have an outdoor photoshoot?
The short answer? Usually no…but let me explain why, and what we can do instead to still get beautiful, personality-filled portraits of your pet.
Why Outdoor Shoots Aren’t Ideal for Most Cats
For safety reasons, I typically don’t recommend outdoor sessions for cats unless they’re already accustomed to being outside, like barn cats or outdoor pets who live their lives exploring the yard or open space. These cats are used to the sounds, smells, and unpredictability of the outdoors and are usually comfortable being photographed in those environments.
Indoor cats, on the other hand, can get overwhelmed or spooked quickly. Even a quiet backyard can feel stressful if your cat isn’t used to it. My priority is always your pet’s comfort and safety, which is why I recommend keeping photo sessions for indoor cats inside the home or sometimes in a screened-in porch or enclosed patio where they feel safe.
What About Pocket Pets, Birds, or Reptiles?
The same goes for other small critters like guinea pigs, hamsters, lizards, or birds. For pocket pets and reptiles, it's best to photograph them indoors where they feel secure. Birds can also be safely photographed outside only if they are truly outdoor pets (and that's rare). Florida is home to many exotic bird lovers, and I’ve photographed quite a few parrots and birds over the years, mostly in the comfort of their homes.
You might be surprised to learn that many of the exotic birds shown here were photographed right inside their habitats. With the right lens and a little post-processing magic, the cage bars become invisible. Just take a look at the photo of the green parrot, Kermit, here. He’s sitting on a chair I covered with one of my special fabric backdrops, and we created a clean, professional look right at home.
Worried About a Cluttered House? Don’t Be.
I know one of the biggest concerns people have about an in-home session is: “What if my home doesn’t look photo-ready?”
Here’s the good news! I bring the magic with me.
I use professional lenses like macro and telephoto zoom lenses that focus tightly on your pet and blur out the background. You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect house. I also bring a few lightweight backdrops that can be draped over a chair, couch, or table to create a clean, classic background for portraits. Whether we’re photographing your cat snoozing in the sunlight or your bird showing off on their perch, we’ll work with what feels natural and comfortable for your pet.
The Bottom Line
Your pet’s comfort and safety come first. While outdoor sessions are perfect for dogs and some outdoor-loving cats or birds, most indoor pets are best photographed in the cozy spaces they know and love.
If you have questions about how a session could work for your cat, bird, or other pet, let’s chat! I’m always happy to walk you through options and help you feel confident about capturing beautiful portraits no matter where your pet calls home.
