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.
1 Comments
Apr 22, 2024, 10:52:47 AM
Marcia Teckenbrock - I was the president of an Illinois foster-based rescue, when Kim approached us offering to take adoption photos. We gladly took her up on it, and she took some of the most beautiful, memorable and personality-catching photos I have ever seen. Kim's talent speaks for itself--just look at her photos. But on top of that, Kim is the kindest, most generous, most patient person. It was great to work with her, and many years later, I am happy to call her my friend.