British Shorthair beside a Chessboard

A grey British Shorthair watches an unfinished chess game from the armchair. Its round face, folded paws and thick coat catch the warm light from the green reading lamp. The wooden board fills the table in front, with pale and dark pieces standing in an irregular position beside a quiet fireplace.

Begin with the cat, then study the close shades of grey in its thick fur. Chess squares give you a neat grid, while the pieces break it into small rounded silhouettes. Books, leather, brass and firelight fill the background with deeper browns. Use the lamp shade, chair fabric and shelf edges to separate the darker parts of the room.