Celebrating Edison | Ontario cat photographer
It’s not often that I have the opportunity to photograph cats outdoors, especially on an amazing rural property complete with meadows in bloom with buttercups and a charming old farmhouse. Resident cats Edison and Barni love lounging their days away in sunbeams, and Edison, in particular, has lots of freedom to explore the property. Both cats were adopted from local shelters, and big brother Edison has been a part of his owner’s life for 11 years — Lyndsay and Eddi are best friends. Sadly, Eddi was diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer — so devastating for the whole family, including a toddler daughter who was just beginning to enjoy his company. Eddi is a real purr monster, so docile and friendly. And kind of fat — he is lovingly referred to as the family’s “watermelon on toothpicks.” Love that!
Lyndsay and her husband hoped to capture their big boy while he was still well enough to enjoy the farm, so they called me in as their cat photographer. We spent a slow Saturday afternoon together, and both cats showed me their favourite spots in the house and outside in the yard.
Eddi’s fur has taken on a red tinge as he’s aged, which the natural window light really highlights.
Barni being a typical curious cat. I think he would have crawled inside my camera if he could! This is when a wide angle lens can be fun.
The stealthy watermelon on toothpicks.
Eddi passed away shortly after our session. He’s missed by the whole family — the farm isn’t the same without Eddi. I have a feeling the void will eventually be filled (although never quite entirely) — this couple is so amazing with adopting cats in need.
A common difficulty I hear from owners of black pets is that good photos are difficult to get on their own because the images turn out dark and details of their pet get lost. With the shock and sorrow of a terminal diagnosis, documenting your furry family member shouldn’t be a burden. I love being able to provide memories to people, which will hopefully make them look back and smile for years to come. It was an honour being your cat photographer!
Wags,
