Patterns

I have been MIA from the blog recently.  I attended a Professional Photographer's training last week, and had to make up some photo sessions when I returned, none of which fit into last week's blog theme.  I purchased some new equipment during the training, and learned some new posing techniques.  Continued training is always fun, because you are learning not only from the presenters, but also from all of the other photographers in the room.

This week's theme is patterns, and, luckily, I had some kittens in the studio this past Sunday, which got me to thinking about a very specific pattern--Tuxedo Cats.  I did some research on tux kitties and here is what I found.

Also called Felix cats, tuxedo kitties are typically white and black (but they don't have to be) and appear to be wearing formal wear.  While the pattern does appear on other colors of cats, the term "tuxedo" is reserved for the black and white colored kitties.  Many have black masks on their faces, specifically over their eyes, and often, over their entire head.  White fur is limited to the paws, belly, chest and throat,  Many appear to have "goatees," like this little one above.

If you think in terms of the long-running Broadway hit, Cats, the "Jellicle cat" (Mr. Mistoffelees) is a Tuxedo cat extraordinaire!  When I was growing up, Felix the Cat, was a prime example of a tuxedoed kitty.

In the group of four kittens that visited the studio, it was hard to tell them apart.  Their markings were significantly close to each other.  Two actually had the black under their chins, and two had white chins.  In the end, if you look at the white divider mask line, it gives you a little hint that a different kitten is now appearing.

Does anyone else hear Julie Andrews singing "I Have Confidence" when you look at the photo above? Yes, this is a different kitten.  How about a tiny tux kitty in a basket?

I particularly like the sun peeking in through the back of the basket and lighting a little pattern there.  I mean really, how can anyone resist this face--or any of their faces for that matter?

And if you are interested, they are up for adoption.  GAH!

There is nothing like playing with four, almost 5-week old kittens.  I forgot how cute, and clumsy, little kitties are at this age.  Their mom is a feral cat, so they were lucky to be found and handled when they were born (they were actually being bottle fed), and they are now moving to solid food and will be ready for adoption by the end of May.  They have been vetted and they are healthy.  Assurances will need to be made that adopters will make sure they are neutered or spayed at the appropriate time.

I realized that I had done some photos in the past for a friend who also has a few tuxedo kitties.  In order to show you a pattern with a full mask, I dug deep into my archives and found this photo below. 

For more interpretations of patterns, visit the blog circle, starting with Nancy Kieffer Photography serving Central New York, the Adirondacks and beyond.  Have a great weekend, with a pattern of fun activities!