Through the Lens: Celebrating the Bond Between Horse and Rider in Equine Photoshoots

Having a photoshoot with your horse can be a great way to capture precious memories and create beautiful art for your home that you can treasure for years to come. That’s why a photo session with your horse can be such a meaningful and valuable experience – it allows you to capture and preserve the memories of your unique relationship in a beautiful and lasting way.

Whether you are a professional equestrian or simply an enthusiast, young or old, you deserve to have beautiful photographs that celebrate your unique bond with your horse! Years down the line and your beloved horses are no longer with you, these photos will serve as a time capsule of the love and connection you shared. It’s amazing how a single photo can bring back a flood of memories and emotions, so it’s truly a priceless investment

As an equine photographer in Dorset,  here are some of my top tips for making the most of your photoshoot:

How do I choose a photographer?

When it comes to selecting a photographer, it is important to find someone who specialises in equine photography. Look for a photographer who has experience working with horses and who understands their behavior and movement. You want to ensure that the photographer you choose is able to capture the beauty and personality of your horse in a way that truly reflects your bond. I know that you might feel a little anxious that your horse or pony might misbehave during a professional photography session. That’s why most equine photographers always have a pre-session questionnaire that helps them get to know all about you and the temperament of your lovely horse(s) and talk through what happens on the day of your photo session. This ensures the session runs smoothly, is relaxed and is tailored to you and your horse.

What if my horse mis-behaves?

It’s completely normal to feel concerned about how your horse will behave during an equine photoshoot. However, please don’t worry and be rest assured that a professional equine photographer will have experience and will have probably seen worse! A good photographer will always prioritize your safety and the safety of your horse and that’s why pre-photoshoot consultations are a great way of finding out any unwanted behaviours that your photographer should be aware of to make the session run smoothly. 

What do I wear to my photoshoot?

I get that you are probably most comfortable in muddy yard boots and dirty jodhpurs and you might be worried you won’t know what to wear for your session? Your equestrian photographer will be there to advise you in a pre-photo shoot getting ready guide that will have lots of inspiration for dressing for the session but still feeling comfortable and feeling great! Booking a session far in advance gives you plenty of time to shop your own wardrobe to choose your perfect outfits! Make sure your horse is groomed and looking their best, and consider coordinating your outfit with your horse’s coat colour. Remember that a simple bridle – black or brown leather works best.

When is the best time of year to book professional photographs with your horse?

As soon as you’d like! Each different season has it’s own unique beauty and now is the perfect opportunity to capture beautiful memories of your special relationship with your best friend.  Most clients love  having an equine photoshoot where their photographer can come and visit them at their own homes and have their photos taken at your own yard as that is usually where the horse is most settled. However, also have a think about your most favourite countryside hacking spot that you have wonderful memories riding at. Or why not have a special equine beach photoshoot at one of the many horse friendly beaches.

When do I get to see my images from the session?

After your session the photographer will carefully go through the images, selecting and editing the very best pictures for your special gallery. Usually a week after the photoshoot they’ll be in touch to arrange a time that suits you for a private viewing for you to look at and enjoy your beautiful images.

So why not give it a try and see for yourself how worthwhile an equine photoshoot can be?

A photoshoot with you and your special horse (or your child and their pony) can be a fantastic way to capture moments and memories with your equine best friend. Choosing a skilled photographer, planning ahead, and remaining calm and patient during the shoot can ensure that you come away with beautiful, high-quality images that you will cherish for years to come.

If you’ve got any other questions or would love to chat about arranging your own special photoshoot I’d love to hear from you.

Beth Chisham Photography 

Equine and Family Photographer based in Dorset

www.bethchisham.com

[email protected]

07850037159

socials: @bethchishamphotography