I’ve been to cat shows at this location many times and so I’m well aware of how terrible the lighting is for photography.  It’s a dimly lit ballroom in a hotel with windows and blinds that are almost always closed.  Deplorable conditions for trying to photograph moving animals.  Still, it’s next to impossible for me to go and NOT take a camera along.  I know the capability of my Canon 7D and various lenses, but this time I decided to take my Sony ‘point ‘n shoot’ just to see how it would handle this challenging lighting situation.  It has the equivalent of up to a 600 mm lens, and I love having that versatility, but it focuses slower than is necessary for animal photography.

This post shows a few images of TICA (The International Cat Association) judge, Fate Mays, handling a Maine Coon (top image) and a Sphinx (hairless breed) in the show ring.  I’m often asked to describe a cat show and I think the bottom image gives a good idea of what you would see if you attended.  Rings with cages holding cats surround a judging table with seats out in front for owners and spectators.  The judge brings each cat out one by one and examines them – sometimes describing the breed traits and characteristics.  Ribbons are awarded for color, division and breed.  I must say, this hotel does have the most comfortable chairs of any show that I have attended!  This image makes the show room look much brighter than it actually was.  Next time there is a cat show in your area – check it out!  You can view show schedules at www.tica.org or www.cfa.org

I’m not sure who determines these things, but today is apparently “Black Cat Appreciation Day” – a day to celebrate and raise awareness about black cats.  Sadly, black cats are often thought to be bad luck and, therefore, remain in shelters without the chance for a forever home.  In many cultures, however, black cats are considered good luck!  Next time you are looking to add a furry feline to your family, please consider adopting a black kitty like this one!