My boy Kiwi kind of steals the spotlight. He is energetic, rambunctious, completely humorous. Mango, on the other hand, is a much more reserved fellow. Sweet as all get out but a little more sedate. Dignfied. Asleep.

Not long ago, I photographed the cats in the Victor Strebneski style. They are dramatic, grainy portraits. One would say they are reserved for people but I am, first and foremost, a pet photographer, so naturally I wanted to incorporate the Strebneski style in animals.

I had an idea today to take one of those images and turn it into a nightclub act. Honestly, I thought it would be Kiwi in his tuxedo, also known as his birthday suit. He is an extremely handsome boy and I thought he could be quite dashing as a lounge singer. But Mango, who quite frankly gets short shrift, ended up the winner in this storytelling image.

Mango just had the right look. His eyes looking into the spotlight... just perfect.

So I combined stage curtains, a microphone stand, and an old timey microphone. Yes, one you'd see Frank Sinatra singing into. Mango the crooner. I added a bit of spotlight to shine on him, then I took it into one of my photo editing programs and completely converted him into a painting. I love it! I never considered adding it as an option to my storytelling sessions but I love it so much, I'm printing one for my walls not unlike the one I made for Kiwi the clown.

What do you think? Can you hear him sing? Want an image for your pet? I do lifestyle, studio, location, and storytelling sessions. Ready? Call me at 818.481.5214.