This article deals with how to take pictures of resident cats walking in the hallways and lounges of cat inns without guests chasing them. The movement of cats and the flow of food for staff always take priority over photos.
When you want to take clear pictures of a moving cat, there is no need to stop or chase the cat. Wait far enough away from where the cat is likely to pass, then select one photo from a short series.
- Check the continuous shooting operation before the cat comes
- People stop by predicting the cat’s path
- Wait for the moment when you pass a bright place
- Hold your stance a little wider.
- Make continuous shots shorter
- Decide not to take photos at stairs and doorways.
- Check before taking a picture of a moving cat
- Summary
- Reference materials
Check the continuous shooting operation before the cat comes
Continuous shooting and burst operations differ depending on the model. Check the manufacturer’s instructions in the guest room or a place where cats are not present, and avoid repeating screen operations during the actual event.
Also check the shutter sound during continuous shooting, the number of saved images, and that the flash is off. You can also choose to take a normal photo only once, without using it on devices that make loud noises.
People stop by predicting the cat’s path
If you see a cat heading down the hallway, toward the stairs, the dishes, the bed, etc., people will move outside the hallway and stop. Avoid walking in front of the cat, walking alongside it, or chasing it from behind.
We will stop filming in areas where staff and other customers pass by. If you decide to sit or squat on the floor, obtain permission from the hostel and choose a position that will not interfere with the cat at your feet and the food being served.
Wait for the moment when you pass a bright place
When a cat walks in a dark place, subject blur tends to remain even if you suppress camera shake. Wait for the scene to naturally pass by a window or a bright lounge.
Do not run the cat with cat teasers, treats, or voices calling its name. Even if the inn has a play time, please check with the staff whether you can participate in the photoshoot and where you should stand.
Hold your stance a little wider.
If you fill the screen with the cat, it will be easier to cut off when suddenly changing direction. Leave some space in the direction of travel, and set up a wide space that includes the hallways and floors of the inn. If you crop it out a little later, you won’t have to get close to the cat.
Even when waving a smartphone to follow the cat, only the upper body moves slowly and the person does not walk from the spot. Look at your surroundings, not just the screen.
Make continuous shots shorter
Don’t hold it down for a long time, just take a short burst of pictures each time the cat passes. If the cat turns around, moves its ears, or speeds up, lower the camera.
Check the photos you took later, and do not call the cat back and take another photo on the spot. Organize similar photos and delete unnecessary data in a safe place.
Decide not to take photos at stairs and doorways.
There is a risk that the photographer may overlook the movement of the cat and its surroundings near stairs, entrances, and doors leading to the outdoors. Put down your phone and wait until the cat has finished moving.
We do not leave the door open to take pictures of cats exiting the guest room, nor do we restrict their exit routes. Prioritize Guest-room Visit Basics.
Check before taking a picture of a moving cat
- Confirmed continuous shooting operation and flash off in advance
- Stay away from cat paths, stairs, and doorways
- Do not block the flow of staff and guests
- Not running or calling the cat back.
- Can be finished with one short continuous shooting
Summary
Rather than chasing a moving resident cat, Rather than chasing a moving resident cat, wait and take pictures. A photographic method suitable for the inn is to stop in a safe place, take a wide stance toward a bright passing point, and finish with a short series of shots.
Reference materials
- Cats Protection: How to take photos of the cat
- 2022 AAFP/ISFM Cat Friendly Veterinary Interaction Guidelines
Note: The operation and sound of the continuous shooting function differ depending on the device.

