If you know me at all, you should be able to tell that I am a cat person.
Now, some may say that this entry doesn't really count as an Odyssey article, nor does it apply to anyone beyond my two cats and myself. But I believe in the art of selfie-taking, and I hope that you may learn to appreciate it just as much as I do. Throughout this journey of exploring years of cat selfies, I intend to educate each and every viewer of the tricks of the trade. Even if you do not currently have a cat or do not plan on owning a cat in the future, it may come in handy somewhere along life's path.
Tip 1: Never let the cat run the show
If your cat of choice isn't in the mood to take a selfie, you follow them around until they are ready to tolerate you for the duration of the selfie, that's all it takes. The resulting selfie may, however, depict a more annoyed or impatient version of the cat, but at least you succeeded.
Tip 2: The cat is most vulnerable when it's sleeping
While it's easiest to snap a quick pic with your cat while they are asleep, you must remember that cats don't like to be woken. Selfies taken through this procedure may result in half-open eyes, or a blurred image caused by the cat trying to slap you in the face. But still, simple.
Tip 3: Beware of the flash
Yes, the flash may provide the best alternative to good lighting in certain situations, but for some reason, cats aren't usually too fond of bright lights shining in their faces. If having the flash on is completely necessary, then I suggest you use it quickly, and bolt on out of there. Cat selfies are worth it.
Tip 4: Don't interrupt the cat
If said cat is eating, bathing, or exploring, they may be quick to defend their privacy. If your cats are generally indoor cats like mine and are able to venture outside for short periods of time, they will make it their mission to avoid you and your phone at all costs. Also, litter boxes are ALWAYS off limits.
Tip 5: Never let go
If you're going for the "I'm going to pick up this cat and we're going to take a picture" approach, then you're in for a real struggle. Most cats, well maybe just mine, don't like being lifted, held, or touched at all. This means you must expect retaliation. The cat will push against you, with or without claws, and will try to escape. You cannot let that happen.
Tip 6: Sneak up on the cat
Distracting the cat is another method to achieving success in an attempted cat selfie. Snapping or rubbing your hands on the floor or using a toy mouse or a string can prove effective. This will take their attention away from you and your camera, and further expanding your allotted time for a selfie.
Tip 7: Add a prop
If your selfie is ever too boring, and you're willing to make this process just slightly more difficult for yourself, try and spice it up with some props. A hat, a pair of glasses, who knows what you'll come up with.
Tip 8: Be ready for any photo op
If a cat is actually in the mood to pose or be in a picture with you, then you better be ready for it. Take advantage of every opportunity you have. Even being a photographer, I still sometimes struggle to catch these photogenic moments.
Tip 9: If all else fails, just smile and hope for the best
Cats and cooperation are polar opposites. Cats are self-centered. Yes, they may love you 25% of the time, mainly when you feed them, but they usually only worry about their own needs and wants. If cats were obedient then they would be dogs. Some of my favorite pictures with my cats were taken when neither of us were "camera ready." This just makes for an even more memorable cat selfie.
Tip 10: Be your cat's biggest fan
Love them unconditionally. You are all they have, so treat them just like they are all that you have. Cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, fish, whatever animal you call a pet, they all deserve love and affection and, of course, a couple of selfies here and there.
