Neighborhood Watch

Written and photographed by Terrie Liebenberg.

The cats are neighborhood strays, though some might be pets. I didn’t really make a conscious decision to start photographing cats, I just naturally gravitated toward them as subjects while out shooting in the streets.

I really miss having pets, as I’d always had cats back home. Snapping random cats on the street fills that void. This is an ongoing series titled “Neighborhood Watch.” I feel it’s pretty fitting, as cats are always wary of strangers and always suspicious of anyone getting too close. After a while, I start to notice their different personalities, and I think they’re starting to trust me a bit. Some let me get really close and even pet them, while others are super sneaky. Animals in general make great subjects for photography, but cats make it extra fun.

Instagram is super saturated with personal accounts detailing the lives of pets, but strays are often overlooked. I think people avoid them because they are wild, shy, and a little rough around the edges, but that’s why I like them. I recently started the Instagram account @catsonpatrol, where I post new pictures, so check it out if you’re into it.

The Author
Terrie Lienbenberg is a 28-year-old South African who’s been living in South Korea for four years. Terrie lives in Yangsan at the moment. Terrie studied documentary video production and only recently really started getting into photography. Find Terrie’s work on Instagram @terrieliebenberg.