For many years I've had the privilege of photographing rescue cats and kittens.   

My journey began in back in the 2000's when I was doing a lot of traveling for work and was enjoying photographing the sights during my off hours.  In 2009 I decided I wanted to improve my photography skills and do more than just take snapshots.  So... I started taking a few workshops and classes.   One of those was an online class on pet photography.    I was hooked.  I have always loved animals, and am especially connected with cats, so in my mind there was no better subject than a fur baby; cat or dog.

My instructor advised me that the best way to learn to photograph animals was to volunteer at the local shelter or with a rescue group.   She was/is involved with HeartsSpeak, an organization that develops resources and provides support that help shelter animals to be seen and find homes.   This organization currently has 500+ artist members from 20 countries who volunteer at local rescues and shelters to create images to help promote adoptions.   

I joined the HeartsSpeak in 2010 and started volunteering with Homes for Endangered and Lost Pets (HELP), a local in-home foster group, primarily photographing their cats and kittens.

First cat adoption photos in April of 2010.

Since then the 100's of cats I've photographed have taught me a lot.  They taught me to speak cat.  Maybe not fluently but enough to know "Meow" has many different meanings.  :)

Because they were such great teachers my photographs have improved.  

Several years later...

For special needs kitties we took the standard portrait a little further...   In the case of Captain Marvel we had to go to outer space.

These unique photos can put a spotlight on a cat or kitten with special needs or have been waiting a long time to find the right forever home.   Captain Marvel only had 3 legs although you'd never know it by the way she raced around.   This photo helped her find her forever home quickly.

But it's more than getting a good photograph.... It fills my soul knowing that my photos can help find forever homes for these critters.   Besides I get to play with so many wonderful beings.   I always say that some of my best days are the times I've had a studio filled with kittens and cats running everywhere.

Since we relocated to TN I've missed working with the rescues so in January I started volunteering over at the Blount County Animal Center.   I love working with the wonderful fur babies at the shelter and helping them find homes with my photographs.

Cats of Blount County Animal Sheler - January 2024

You can see all the images from my first visit to the shelter here. 

Check back for more kitty photos as I get to play with more of these wonderful creatures.  If you see someone you connect with go to the shelter to meet them.   It is worth it.