prepare for your equine photography session!
Let’s get together and discuss how to make your horse SHINE during their amazing equine photography session! Whether you’re scheduling a Horse & Rider session or an amazing Equine Fine Art black background session, I have listed a few things to help you prepare!
Grooming your horse is key for outstanding photos!
Bathe your horse several hours before the session to ensure they are dry by the time the session starts. Do your best to eliminate dirt and lose hair during the bath and even after, during grooming. Focus on the mane, tail, and hooves for that polished look.
Add conditioners, sprays and hoof shine long enough before the session that they are dry in time! Depending on time of year, body clipping may be needed before your session. Hire a professional if needed. Make sure this is done several days before the session to allow for hair to grow back and the lines from the shaver to no longer be visible.
Mane Options can make a difference!
Braiding or banding makes for an elegant look if you are wanting that crisp pop of the horse in a working themed session.
Keeping the mane natural and down provides softness and a peaceful feeling to your photos.
Keep PhotograpHY PROPS in mind!
I often use different tools to get your horse's attention.The day of the session, if there is anything your horse is scared of or can’t eat, please let us know as we will use treats to help pose your horse as well.
Do your best to get them comfortable with being handled not only by you, but by someone else so my assistant (if we have one) can help place feet, smooth manes, and get your horse to pose the best way possible.
Your Energy matters!
Have you ever heard the phrase that what you feel runs down the lead rope or reins right to your horse? It is TRUE!
Your energy will affect your horse. We are here to have fun, if you think your horse isn’t behaving, just take a deep breath and relax. You will be amazed at the photos that are being captured even when you think things look terrible!!
So get a good night rest the night before our session, fuel your body so you are not hungry and super thirsty. Pick out your outfits (if a horse and rider session) well beforehand and try them on with your horse before the session. If you have a long dress make sure your horse is used to that flowing around and near them.
Conduct a Dress Rehearsal
This is what was mentioned previously…...
Try out the outfits you will wear during the shoot and make sure you feel comfortable and confident in them! If you have new gear for your horse, make sure to try that on them and make sure they are comfortable and it is adjusted properly before the session. You want your horse comfortable. Clean your tack and make it shine before the day of the session! Doing all this will allow you to focus on your horse and having fun!
Eat and Stay Hydrated
Healthy Horse, HappyHorse. Healthy Humans are Happy Humans. Make sure your horse is well-fed and hydrated before the shoot. This will keep them content and focused. Same goes for yourself!
Capture Authentic Moments
My entire goal is to capture the moments that show your bond with your horse. I will make sure to coach and guide you through different ways to pose yourself with your horse. Trust the process and be yourself. LAUGH and smile! Just use this as another day to build the bond with your horse.
Choose the Right Location
It is best to have your session done at a familiar location to your horse. Select a location that your horse knows well to minimize anxiety. If you are having your session done at the barn your horse lives at, schedule that for a time that is the least busy! This will help keep the surroundings calm and free of distractions.
