Go in slow but with a purpose. IOW - once you've committed to getting the snake out, move slowly so that the snake isn't startled, but don't give the snake time to be aggressive. Never try to grab the snake's head first thing; somewhere about mid-body is preferable. For the smaller snakes, you can try scooping them, but larger snakes may require you to (gently) grab them.

Everyone has their own preferences, but here's the sequence that's worked for me:

1) After opening the cage, reach in and gently touch the snake
2) Pick the snake up, and remove it from the cage

Snakes are first and foremost individuals. Some may tolerate handling better than others.

One more thing: it's generally a good idea to wash your hands in between snakes. You can help prevent the spread of diseases and some parasites. Also, kingsnakes are cannibalistic, so if you go into a kingnsnake's enclosure smelling like another snake, the kingsnake might mistake you for lunch.

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