When you think of rescuing cats, photography might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it's an important part of helping our rescued kitties find a home. Since Regina Cat Rescue (RCR) is a foster-based group and doesn't operate a shelter, we showcase our adoptable cats on our website and social media - and to do that we need great photos that show each cat looking its best! That's why RCR has a team of dedicated volunteer photographers who visit foster homes and satellite adoption centres around the city with the goal of snapping our rescued cats' glamour shots. Renae Bradley is one of these volunteers.

Renae got her start with photography while working aboard a cruise ship and saw plenty of opportunities to take amazing photos. From architecture to animals, she loves all photography and can often be found exploring new places to find new photo subjects. Her other hobbies include gardening, home improvement projects and scrapbooking. And, of course, spending time at home with her husband and three kitties - Beanie, Togepi and Missy.

How did you get involved with Regina Cat Rescue?
I came across an RCR calendar at my vet office. Checked the website out and what the rescue does. I looked at the volunteer opportunities, saw a photographer posting and applied to help.

What’s your role with Regina Cat Rescue?
I am one of the photographers that is lucky to meet so many beautiful kitties and the great fosters. I go out to the foster homes and try to get the best photos possible of the cat or kitten.

What’s the best or most rewarding part of volunteering with RCR?
The happiness of seeing a cat I photographed go to his or her forever home.

What’s the most challenging part of volunteering with RCR?
Wishing I had more free time to give - and taking photos of shy kitties. They always make things interesting. I do what I have to in order to get at least one or two decent photos.

What motivates you to volunteer?
I love cats and want to help them find their forever homes. I have been doing photography for years and can use it to help.

Do you have any memorable or special moments from your time as an RCR volunteer?
I will never forget my first cat, Simone. Her foster moms were great and she was such a sweet girl. They made it easy for me. A second one is a kitten my husband & I picked up for RCR. A lady had found him and contacted RCR for help. He was so small and we were surprised he didn't meow at all in the car. We kept him overnight and in less than 12 hours he was already a sassy kitten. So many cats stick out in my mind I have met, they are all special and unique.

How do you balance volunteering with your other commitments?
I remind myself that cats and kittens need me to help them by taking their photos hoping to capture their beauty, playful or cuddly personalities. Volunteering becomes part of your schedule and life. It isn't always easy with schedules and busy lives, but my cats at home remind me why I volunteer.

What would you tell someone thinking of volunteering with RCR?
To definitely sign up to volunteer, there are so many ways you can help. Volunteering with RCR has brought more to my life than I expected meeting cats and their fosters and rescuers.

Anything else you’d like to add about volunteering for RCR?
I have met some great people in over a year I have been volunteering with RCR. I am not from Regina originally and volunteering gets me out meeting new people.

If you're interested in joining our team of volunteer photographers, please check out the job description and email our communications team for more information!