Horse and Rider FAQs
Table of Contents
Can't find your question? Feel free to contact me. I'm always happy to help.
Booking Your Session
What is horse and rider photography?
Horse and rider photography celebrates the unique relationship between you and your horse. Every session is designed to capture genuine moments from quiet glances to the joy you share together. It's about creating timeless images that reflect your story and the partnership that makes your horse so much more than just an animal, they’re our best friends.
What makes a horse portrait session different from a regular portrait session?
Horse portrait sessions require an understanding of both photography and horses. Unlike a traditional portrait session, we're working with a live animal that has its own personality, comfort level, and attention span. I plan sessions around your horse's needs and behavior while creating images that showcase the bond you share together.
Do I need riding experience to book a horse session?
Not necessarily. While most clients have experience around horses, you don't need to be an experienced rider to book a session. The most important thing is that you're comfortable around your horse and able to interact with them naturally. Horse and rider photography focuses on the emotional connection between you and your horse, instead of your riding ability.
Can I book a session just for my horse?
Absolutely, because fine art horse portraits are one of the most popular horse-only sessions. These black or white background portraits place all of the focus on your horse and their unique personality.
Liberty sessions are another wonderful option. Your horse is free to move around a pasture or arena while I document their captivating expression, movement, and athleticism at this point in their life.
Can multiple people be photographed with one horse?
Yes. Multiple people can be photographed with the same horse during a session.
Horses are part of the family, so it makes sense that a parent, sibling, or friend may want to join the session. If they will be featured throughout the session, you may want to choose a package with more images. Otherwise, it's $50 per person to have someone join in.
Can I include multiple horses?
Yes. Multiple horses can be included in your horse and rider photography session.
If you're lucky enough to have multiple horses, it's a joy to include them. My Signature package includes up to four horses and additional images to give fair coverage to each horse and rider pairing.
We may take individual portraits with one horse at a time, and if we have enough help and the horses get along, we'll try for a group photo as well.
Do you photograph miniature horses?
Absolutely. I love all types of horses, and miniature horses make wonderful partners for portrait sessions. While they may be small, their personalities are not and this comes across in beautiful portraits.
Do you photograph retired or senior horses?
Yes. I regularly photograph retired and senior horses.
Horses are our best friends, and they deserve to be honored in a meaningful and lasting way.
I offer Remember Me sessions, which are half-price sessions for horses over 23 years old or those facing a terminal illness. They have carried us through so much and deserve their own special session.
You can learn more here: Remember Me Blog Post
Can I bring my dog or other animals?
The more the merrier. If you'd like your dog, barn cat, goat, or another four-legged friend to join the session, they're welcome to.
If they'll only be in a few images, it's $50 per animal. If they'll be featured throughout the session, you may want to select a package that counts them as an additional horse.
How far in advance should I book?
To reserve your preferred date and allow plenty of time for planning, I recommend booking three to four months in advance.
That said, it never hurts to ask. If I have availability, I'm always happy to fit in a session. Remember Me sessions receive scheduling priority whenever possible because time can be a factor.
Outfits and Styling
What should I wear for horse and rider portraits?
I send every client a style guide filled with suggestions and examples to help you choose outfits with confidence. As a general rule, solid colors or subtle patterns photograph best, while large logos, busy designs, and neon colors can distract from the real focus—you and your horse.
Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. When you feel good in what you're wearing, it shows in your photos.
What colors photograph best?
In general, I recommend avoiding loud prints and bright neon colors, as they can distract from the image and sometimes cast unwanted color onto your skin.
If you're looking for color advice in particular, check out this blog post.
Should I wear boots or dress shoes?
That's entirely up to you and the look you're hoping to create.
Boots are always a practical choice around horses and offer extra protection for your feet. However, if you'd like to wear a pair of dress shoes or wedge heels for part of the session, we can absolutely incorporate those as well.
Can I wear a dress around my horse?
Absolutely. Dresses are one of the most popular outfit choices for horse and rider portraits.
Some dresses are easier to work with than others, though. I recommend choosing a dress that allows you to move comfortably, sit, kneel, and interact naturally with your horse throughout the session.
If you're planning to wear a particularly dramatic dress or would like riding photos in it, I strongly recommend testing it around your horse beforehand. We want to make sure your horse is comfortable with the movement and appearance of the dress before session day.
Can I do multiple outfit changes?
Absolutely. Different packages include different amounts of time, which affects how many outfit changes we can comfortably fit into your session.
Multiple outfits add variety to your gallery and allow you to create several different looks, whether that's casual, elegant, western, show attire, or a combination of styles.
What if I don't know what to wear?
Then you are not alone. Choosing outfits can feel overwhelming when you're starting with a blank slate.
I provide a style guide with inspiration and recommendations, and I'm happy to help you narrow down options.
We can work together to choose outfits that fit your vision, complement your horse, and photograph beautifully. My clients and I often text outfit ideas leading up to the session.
Many riders already have great options hanging in their closets and don't realize it. Buying an entirely new wardrobe usually isn't necessary.
Should I match my horse's color?
Generally, no.
If you wear the exact same color as your horse, the two of you can visually blend together in photographs. For example, an all-white outfit with a gray horse or an all-black outfit with a black horse can make it harder to distinguish you from your horse.
Instead, choose colors that complement your horse while still allowing you to stand out as the rider. We want to highlight your connection while still clearly showing both of you.
Can I wear my show clothes?
Absolutely.
Show clothes can be a wonderful way to celebrate your journey with your horse. Many riders choose to include their show attire as one of their outfits because showing is a large part of their lives as it represents years of hard work, dedication, and memories.
You're welcome to mix show clothes with casual outfits or dresses during your session to create a variety of looks that reflect both your accomplishments and your relationship with your horse.
Preparing Your Horse
Should I bathe my horse before the session?
The ideal horse is clean and dry. Washing them either the night before or the morning of your session works well.
If you're keeping your horse stalled to stay clean before the session, I recommend a light lunge or walk beforehand so they aren't bursting with energy when we start taking photos.
How clean does my horse need to be?
This depends somewhat on your preferences, but in general, you'll want their coat free of obvious mud, grass stains, and dirt.
Pay special attention to white markings, manes, tails, and hooves, as those areas tend to stand out most in photographs. A clean, shiny horse photographs beautifully and is well worth the extra effort before your session.
My blog article goes over how to prep your horse for a photoshoot.
Should I clip whiskers before photos?
Only clip whiskers if that's what you normally do.
For example, if you show Arabians or compete in a discipline where a clean muzzle is standard, clipping may make sense. My goal is for your horse to look like themselves, so I encourage you to prepare them the way you normally would for an important event.
Should I braid or band my horse?
To braid or not to braid—that is the question.
This comes down entirely to personal preference. Braids or bands can look beautiful in fine art portraits or if you'll be wearing your show clothes during the session. However, they're never required.
Whether your horse is braided, banded, or completely natural, the most important thing is that they look like your horse.
Should I use fly spray?
We're in Georgia, so fly spray is practically a necessity.
The key is applying it evenly and giving it enough time to dry before we begin photographing. I also recommend bringing it along because we'll likely need to reapply throughout the session.
The bugs are fierce, and a comfortable horse is a much happier model.
Should I polish hooves?
I highly recommend polishing hooves for equine fine art portraits.
It's also worth considering if you'll be wearing your show clothes and that's how you normally present your horse in competition. Beyond that, it's entirely up to you and the look you'd like to achieve.
What if my horse rolls five minutes before the session?
Then we'll get in there and clean them up.
I'm happy to help brush, hold your horse, or organize grooming supplies to get them looking their best again. I've been a lifelong horse person, so I know horses will be horses—and rolling is simply part of their job description.
What grooming supplies should I bring?
After your horse is groomed, I recommend bringing a small touch-up kit with us wherever we're photographing.
At a minimum, I suggest bringing:
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A brush
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Fly spray
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Baby wipes for last-minute dirt patches
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A barn towel for slobber
Those few items solve most last-minute grooming emergencies.
Should I bring treats?
You can, but we need to be careful.
I typically use treats only as a last resort because once some horses realize snacks are available, they can become mouthy and more focused on finding treats than interacting naturally with you.
Should I lunge my horse first?
A light lunge before the session is often a great idea.
Many horses spend extra time in a stall before a session so they stay clean, and some come out with more energy than usual. A little exercise helps them settle, relax, and focus on you.
Just be sure to leave enough time for any sweat to dry and brush out before we begin photographing.
Horse Behavior
What if my horse won't stand still?
Horses don't naturally stand still for long periods of time, so this is one of the most common concerns owners have before a session.
I recommend practicing groundwork before your session so your horse becomes familiar with standing quietly and paying attention to you. Starting early gives you time to see what areas might need a little extra work.
A light lunge the day of is also a time-honored way to help take the edge off. During the session, we'll troubleshoot as needed. Sometimes a horse can't see their friends, is too far from the barn, is in a new environment, or is simply annoyed by bugs. We'll work together to figure out what's causing the fidgeting and help them settle in.
My blog article goes over more about photo shoot behavior preparation.
What if my horse spooks?
Horses can spook during a photoshoot, but don't let it get to you, as it's completely normal.
If your horse spooks, we'll simply give them time to settle down. Sometimes that means taking a short walk, changing locations, or allowing them a few minutes to process whatever caught their attention.
We can't expect perfection from our horses, and there's no reason to panic. We'll evaluate the situation and move forward from there.
What if my horse is nervous around cameras?
Most horses haven't spent much time around cameras. They may have seen one ring side at a horse show, but having a camera pointed directly at them is usually a new experience.
I introduce the camera slowly and give horses time to investigate it. I often let them sniff it and satisfy their curiosity before we begin photographing.
I have had one or two horses attempt to eat the camera, so I always make introductions carefully.
My horse never puts its ears forward—can you help?
I have an entire bag of tricks dedicated to this exact problem.
Whether it's my neighing app, a bottle shaker, a dog toy, or something else entirely, I bring several tools designed to get a horse's attention.
I also typically bring a fellow horse person whose main job is helping us get those ears forward. If you bring a friend to help, they are welcome to use my collection of horse-noise-making devices as well.
Do horses have to be perfectly trained?
Not at all.
Very few horses naturally understand what a portrait session is or what we're asking them to do. A little preparation goes a long way, though.
Practicing groundwork, standing quietly, and moving over when asked can make the session smoother for everyone. It also helps if your horse is familiar with the location and any unusual outfits you plan to wear.
My goal isn't perfection—it's creating beautiful images while working with the horse you have.
Can you photograph young horses?
Absolutely.
I especially enjoy photographing foals in their pastures. Young horses often bring a lot of personality to their portraits and it’s always fun to watch their zoomies across the field.
Can you photograph stallions?
Yes, I can photograph stallions.
As with any horse, safety comes first. I reserve the right to end a session if dangerous behavior develops, but those situations are thankfully rare.
With proper handling and realistic expectations, stallions can absolutely participate in portrait sessions.
Can you photograph horses that are reactive?
Yes. As horse people know, some horses naturally have bigger feelings than others. Setting them up for success starts before the session. Groundwork, practice visits to new locations, and familiarity with the environment can all help reduce stress.
During the session, we'll pay attention to your horse's comfort level. I try to reduce anxiety and address it as soon as the first signs begin to show. Sometimes, a short walk, a break in the stall, or simply having a buddy horse nearby can make all the difference.
My blog article discusses a horse's mental preparations for a horse photo shoot.
What if my horse doesn't like strangers?
Just like people, not every horse is a social butterfly.
The good news is that you will be the primary person handling your horse throughout the session. Aside from introducing the camera, I generally give horses plenty of personal space and allow them to work through the session at their own comfort level.
If we have someone helping with ears, they'll usually be standing at a distance as well. Most horses settle in quickly once they realize nobody is asking much from them besides spending time with their favorite person.
During the Session
How long does a horse photography session last?
Session length depends on the package you choose and can range from thirty minutes to two hours.
As long as I don't have back-to-back sessions scheduled, I tend to be flexible with timing. My focus is on creating quality images while keeping both you and your horse comfortable and relaxed. I'd rather spend a few extra minutes getting the right image than have everyone feel rushed.
What happens during a typical session?
When I arrive, I'll spend a few minutes getting to know you and your horse while introducing the camera and scouting the best locations on the property.
From there, we'll spend the session creating a variety of images together. I'll guide you through poses and interactions with your horse, whether that's standing, walking, hugging, sitting, leaning, or simply spending time together naturally.
Depending on your package, we may change locations, switch outfits, or incorporate different parts of the property. Before leaving, I'll make sure you know what to expect next and answer any remaining questions.
Will you tell me how to pose?
Yep, I'll be there for you.
Beyond a fidgety horse, posing is one of the biggest concerns riders have. After all, we're horse people, not professional models.
I'll guide you through poses and interactions that photograph well while still feeling natural. I also leave plenty of room for genuine moments with your horse, so you don't need to worry about looking stiff or forced.
I've never modeled before—is that okay?
Of course.
The vast majority of my clients have never modeled before, and that's completely normal. You don't need any experience in front of the camera.
I'll guide you through the entire process and help you feel comfortable every step of the way. Honestly, much of the session involves simply spending time with your horse, so it feels far more natural than most people expect.
What if I feel awkward?
Honestly, most people feel awkward at the beginning of a portrait session. And that's completely normal.
After a few minutes and a pose or two, you'll start relaxing as the focus shifts away from the camera and back to your horse. Before long, you'll be concentrating on your horse rather than wondering what to do with your hands.
Can I ride during the session?
Yes. Riding photos can absolutely be included during your horse and rider session.
We can include riding portraits, lesson photos, bareback images, or simply photos of you enjoying time together in the arena. We do need to discuss it beforehand so I can plan accordingly.
If you'd like photos bareback, I do ask that you already have experience riding bareback before the session. Waiting until you're wearing a flowing dress and standing in front of a camera is not the ideal time to try it for the first time. A little practice beforehand helps keep everyone safe and confident.
Can we take photos in the arena?
Absolutely.
Arena portraits are very common. Sometimes we're using the arena because you're riding, sometimes because the light is beautiful, and sometimes because it provides unique elements like jumps, barrels, gates, or fencing.
When I arrive, I'll evaluate the arena as one of our potential locations and decide whether it fits the vision for your session that we’ve discussed.
Can we take photos in a pasture?
Pasture portraits are one of the most common settings for horse and rider sessions.
Horses are often most comfortable where they live, making pastures a natural choice. Open space, waving grass, filtered sunlight, fencing, and room to move all help create beautiful images.
Can we include the barn?
Definitely.
Barns often provide wonderful framing opportunities and add visual interest to photographs. They also tell an important part of your horse's story, as it is their day-to-day home.
If we're creating equine fine art portraits, we'll likely use the barn entrance or aisleway as part of the process as well.
Can family members help?
I recommend bringing one extra person, whether they're a family member, friend or fellow rider..
A helper can hold your horse while you change outfits, help get ears forward, carry supplies, or keep an eye on loose items throughout the session.
I do recommend limiting the number of people who attend. Too many helpers can sometimes create unnecessary distractions or chaos.
When choosing a helper, look for someone who knows horses, stays calm under pressure, is encouraging, and is someone you feel completely comfortable being yourself around.
Locations
Do you travel throughout Georgia?
Yes. I photograph horse and rider sessions throughout Georgia and the Southeast. I’ll do a travel fee for locations more than an hour from me. I can do multiple Mini shoots or a couple of horse and rider shoots one day at a single barn where everyone splits the travel fee.
Do you come to my barn?
I come to your barn. Horses are most comfortable on their own property and comfortable, relaxed horses make the best photos. I will meet you somewhere if you have a certain spot in mind, I just ask that you and your horse have been to the location before and that we possibly bring a travel buddy horse to keep your horse calm.
What makes a good photo location?
Lighting matters most. Sometimes it’s hard to give up a gorgeous background, but if the lighting doesn’t work, we may have to choose another spot. Nice even shade with the sun behind the subject is a good place to start when scouting for good photo spots.
Can we use my pasture?
Pastures are the most common setting I shoot in. They often have open space, good light, pretty grass, and nice fencelines. We do try to have only your horse in the pasture we are using, as multiple horses can be distracting and photobombs.
Can we photograph in an arena?
Arenas are another good spot for horse and rider photoshoots. I can take pictures of you riding in the arena, leaning against objects like barrels or jumps, or finding the most ideal spot for light to go through some poses.
What if my barn isn't "pretty"?
Most barns are lived in, working horse barns. Still, every property has areas of good light than can be worked with to create a beautiful image.
Can we photograph on trails?
Trail photos would be a unique set of photos, and I’m up for it if you are. I have covered trail rides before. Whether moving around or staying in one spot, I came back with a variety of images out in nature with your favorite animal.
Do I need permission to use a location?
Permission is key. You must talk with your barn manager and get the okay for the date and time. You will need to ask them if you need to do anything special to be ready for the shoot. And if we are doing public land, we will need to get the necessary permits and pay needed fees.
Lighting and Timing
Why do you recommend sunset sessions?
The light at the end of the day is soft, warm, and flattering. It creates gentle highlights and avoids the harsh shadows that can occur during the middle of the day.
For both horses and riders, sunset light is often the most forgiving and beautiful light available, which is why it's my preferred time for portrait sessions.
Can we schedule a sunrise session?
We can definitely schedule a sunrise session.
Sunrise sessions offer many of the same benefits as sunset sessions, including soft light and beautiful color. They also come with the added bonus of peaceful mornings, cooler temperatures, and often fewer distractions around the property.
If you're an early riser like me, sunrise can be a wonderful option.
Can we photograph at midday?
For horse and rider portraits, I generally recommend sunrise or sunset because the light is much more flattering.
The exception is equine fine art portraits. Since those images are created using the shade of a barn, they can be photographed successfully during the middle of the day.
What if it's cloudy?
Cloudy weather can actually be excellent for horse and rider photography.
Cloud cover creates soft, even light that eliminates harsh shadows and bright highlights. In many situations, I actually have more flexibility on a cloudy day because I can focus entirely on the best backgrounds rather than being limited by the direction of the sunlight.
Cloudy skies can also add mood and drama to horse and rider portraits while still producing beautiful skin tones and coat color.
What if it rains?
If it rains, we reschedule.
I intentionally leave room in my calendar for weather-related reschedules, so we'll simply choose another date and wait for better conditions.
What if it's windy?
Wind can be challenging because it may make horses more alert or unsettled, and it can turn carefully styled hair into a wild science experiment.
We'll keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your session. If conditions are excessively windy, we'll reschedule and wait for a calmer day so you can receive the best possible images.
What season is best for horse photography?
The best season for horse photography depends on the look and feel you want from your portraits.
Spring is beautiful for soft colors, blooming landscapes, and pastel outfits. Summer offers lush greenery and vibrant colors. Fall is perfect for warm earth tones, rich colors, and cozy outfits
Winter is often overlooked, but it can create stunning images. Without bright green grass competing for attention, bolder outfit colors can really stand out. Although snow is rare in Georgia, it can add a unique look to winter images.
The most important thing is matching the season to the style and feeling you want your portraits to have. Scheduling early gives us time to plan ahead to best match the season to your vision.
Images and Artwork
How many images will I receive?
The number of images you receive depends on the package you choose. Collections currently include between 15 and 45 images, with the option to purchase additional images if desired.
Do you retouch horse portraits?
Yes, extensive retouching is part of every equine fine art portrait. For horse and rider sessions, I also retouch images to remove distractions and help each photograph look its best.
Every image receives individual attention, and I'm happy to discuss your preferences during the editing process. My goal is always to keep the focus on you and your horse rather than the red hose in the background.
Will you remove lead ropes?
Sometimes.
For horse and rider portraits, removing a lead rope often creates an unnatural-looking hand because it still appears as though you're holding something. In those situations, I usually recommend leaving the lead rope in place and using a less noticeable colored lead.
For equine fine art portraits, I routinely remove lead ropes during editing. I often use a naked halter for these sessions, which is specifically designed to be edited out of the final image.
Do you whiten markings?
I can brighten white markings to an extent, but I can't completely erase stains or replace good grooming.
A thorough bath before your session, possibly using whitening shampoo, is still the best way to ensure your horse looks their best.
Can you remove flies?
We're in Georgia, and flies are simply part of life around horses. I photoshop as much as I can to make sure they aren't distracting from you or your horse in the final images.
Can I order wall art?
Absolutely.
You can order wall art directly through your gallery in a variety of sizes and mediums. Whether you're looking for framed artwork, canvas pieces, metal prints, or something else entirely, there are options to fit many different homes and styles.
What size artwork looks best?
The best size depends on where the artwork will be displayed and how much visual impact you'd like it to have.
For more guidance, take a look at my wall art planning article here.
Can I create an album?
Definitely, I highly recommend albums.
Albums tell the complete story of your session in a way that a single image simply can't. They allow you to relive the experience from beginning to end and create something tangible that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Many horse owners tell me they love flipping through their album because it brings back the little moments they may have forgotten over time.
Meaningful Partnerships
Is it too late to photograph my senior horse?
No. In fact, the best time to photograph a senior horse is usually sooner rather than later.
Our horses don't stay with us forever, and time becomes more precious as they age. That's why I always encourage owners not to wait for the perfect season, the perfect weather, or the perfect schedule.
I give senior horse sessions priority scheduling whenever possible because time can be a pressing factor. Your longtime partner is simply too important to put off photographing.
Can I schedule a session before my horse retires?
Absolutely.
There are countless reasons to schedule a session with your horse. Maybe you just bought them. Maybe they're retiring after years of showing. Maybe you reached a major goal together, celebrated a birthday, or simply want to remember this stage of your journey.
The truth is that there doesn't have to be a special occasion. The fact that your horse matters to you is reason enough. The best time for photos is now, while you're still making memories together.
Can I include a horse I've owned my entire life?
Yes.
In fact, that's one of the most meaningful reasons to schedule a session. Horse and rider portraits are designed to preserve this moment in time and celebrate the relationship you've built together over the years.
Few people understand how much of our lives can be tied to a single horse. Those relationships deserve to be documented and remembered forever.
Can I photograph a horse that is recovering from an injury?
It depends on the injury, but often the answer is yes.
If your horse is aging, sore, or has limited mobility, I'm happy to photograph them where they're most comfortable. They have already given us so much, and I don't want to ask more of them than they're capable of giving.
For cosmetic injuries, such as small cuts or blemishes, we can often use creative angles and posing to minimize their appearance. Every situation is different, so we'll discuss your horse's needs and make a plan that keeps them comfortable.
Why do horse portraits become so meaningful over time?
Our horses are woven into some of the most important moments of our lives.
They carry us through childhood, competitions, setbacks, accomplishments, and countless ordinary days that end up meaning everything. While memories are powerful, they unfortunately fade over time.
Horse portraits allow us to hold onto those moments. They preserve not only what our horses looked like, but also how it felt to be with them during that chapter of our lives.
How do I preserve memories with my horse?
One of the best ways is to intentionally document your time together.
Horse and rider and fine art portraits preserve moments that would otherwise become memories. Whether displayed as wall art, albums, prints, or digital images, photographs allow you to revisit your horse's personality, expression, and the bond you shared together.
Memories may fade, but photographs help keep those moments alive long after they've passed.
What if my horse is my heart horse?
If your horse is your heart horse, now is the time to get the pictures done.
Many of us are lucky enough to have one horse that changes our lives. The horse who taught us, challenged us, carried us through difficult seasons, and became far more than just an animal.
Those relationships deserve to be documented. The love we have for our heart horses is too important to trust entirely to memory. Photographs give us a way to physically hold onto this chapter of our lives long after it has passed.
Is it okay if I cry during my session?
Yes and I completely understand.
Horse and rider sessions are often emotional because we're celebrating a relationship that means so much to us. Sometimes those feelings show up unexpectedly, and that's completely okay.
If you need a moment, we'll take one. We'll let the emotions settle, take a breath, and continue when you're ready.
Some of the most meaningful photographs come from genuine emotion, and there is never any judgment for feeling deeply about a horse you love.
Fine Art
What makes a fine art horse portrait?
Fine art horse portraits are designed to place all of the attention on your horse.
Their expression, personality, muscle definition, shiny coat, and unique features become the focus of the image. By removing distractions, the portrait highlights what makes your horse special and creates a timeless piece of artwork.
Fine art portraits are especially popular as wall art because they showcase your horse in a classic, elegant way.
Do you create black background horse portraits?
Yes, as black background portraits are the most popular style of equine fine art portrait that I offer. The dramatic background allows your horse's expression, coloring, and personality to take center stage.
They are a beautiful way to celebrate a horse that has played an important role in your life and often become favorite pieces of artwork within a home.
Why do some portraits have dark backgrounds?
Dark backgrounds remove distractions and simplify the image.
Without grass, fences, barns, trees, or other elements competing for attention, your horse becomes the sole focus of the portrait. The result is a timeless image that emphasizes your horse's beauty, expression, and character.
Sometimes the simplest images make the strongest impact.
What images work best as wall art?
The best wall art is usually the image that makes you feel something every time you see it.
Some clients love dramatic fine art portraits, while others prefer horse and rider images that capture a favorite memory or meaningful moment. Both can make beautiful artwork.
When selecting your images, I'll help you consider the size of the space, viewing distance, room colors, and overall style of your home. Together, we'll choose pieces that not only showcase your horse beautifully but also feel perfectly at home on your walls.
Personalizing Your Session
Can I include my tack trunk?
Yes you can.
Tack trunks can make great props and often provide a convenient place to sit while interacting with your horse. I do recommend giving it a quick cleaning beforehand, but otherwise they're a great way to add a personal touch to your session.
Can I include ribbons and awards?
Great idea.
Your ribbons, trophies, buckles, and awards represent years of hard work, dedication, and memories with your horse. They're a wonderful way to celebrate your accomplishments and tell a more complete story of your journey together.
We can incorporate them into a few images or build an entire portion of the session around them.
Can I wear my show clothes?
You are welcome to.
Showing is a major part of many riders' lives, so it's only natural to want portraits in the outfit you've spent years competing in. Show clothes often represent countless hours of practice, early mornings, and special memories with your horse.
Many of my collections allow time for multiple outfits, so you can include both your show attire and a more casual or dressy look during the same session to match your vision.
Can I include my trainer?
Of course.
Trainers play an important role in both our riding journey and our relationship with our horses. If you'd like a few images with your trainer, I'm happy to include them.
For brief appearances, there's no additional charge. If they'll be participating throughout a larger portion of the session, there is a $50 fee for each additional person.
If you'd like to include your trainer, I recommend discussing it with them beforehand so we can schedule around their day and give them time to wear whatever they'd like for the photos.
Can I recreate an old photograph?
Absolutely—and those are often some of my favorite images to create.
Whether it's a childhood photo, an old show picture, or a special image with a horse you've loved for years, recreating a photograph can be a meaningful way to honor your history together.
If you'd like to recreate an image, let me know ahead of time so I can help plan the location, posing, and details.
Can I include my favorite bridle or saddle?
Of course.
We're photographing your favorite horse, so it only makes sense to include your favorite tack as well.
Whether it's the saddle you've ridden in for years or a special bridle you've always loved, meaningful equipment can help tell your story. If possible, I recommend neutral-colored tack, as brighter colors can sometimes compete with your outfit or draw attention away from you and your horse.
Moments Between The Poses
What if my horse gets dirty halfway through the session?
They’re horses, so it happens.
If your horse decides to roll, find a mud puddle, or otherwise undo all of your hard work, we'll simply pause and give them a quick touch-up. A few minutes with a brush is usually all it takes to get them looking their best again.
What if my horse won't stop eating grass?
Horses do love grass, we can’t deny that.
The easiest way to prevent grazing is to avoid letting them get that first bite. Once they realize grass is on the menu, they tend to become a little more determined.
If your horse becomes focused on grazing, we may move locations, keep them more engaged, or simply give them a moment to refocus before continuing.
What if there are bugs everywhere?
Bugs are a way of life in Georgia.
We'll keep your horse comfortable with fly spray throughout the session, and I highly recommend bringing bug spray for yourself as well. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping everyone happy.
Do I need a perfect barn for beautiful portraits?
No. If everyone had a perfect barn, none of us would be able to afford board.
Most horse properties are working barns, and that's completely okay. When I arrive, I scout locations based on light, background, distractions, horse comfort, accessibility, and several other factors.
Beautiful portraits come from good light and meaningful moments, not fancy facilities.
Will you help me decide where to hang my artwork?
Of course, I am happy to help you with your artwork.
One of the best parts of the process is seeing your images displayed where you'll enjoy them every day. If you'd like help, you can send photos of your walls, and we can work together to determine the best size, placement, and arrangement for your artwork. This blog post has more iformation.
What if my horse is the star and I don't want to be in many photos?
I completely understand.
Most of us think our horses are the most beautiful creatures on earth. If you'd rather keep the focus on your horse, we can absolutely do that.
Many clients choose a combination session with a handful of horse and rider portraits followed by fine art portraits or liberty images that focus primarily on the horse. More information on fine art is here.
Can a quiet moment make a better portrait than a perfect pose?
Many times.
At the end of the day, we're not just photographing what you and your horse look like, we're photographing what your relationship feels like.
Some of the most meaningful images come from quiet moments: a soft nuzzle, a deep breath, a forehead resting against your horse, or simply standing together in comfortable silence.
While I'll guide you into natural poses throughout the session, I always prioritize genuine connection over perfection.
Safety
Is horse photography safe?
Safety is always my top priority.
Even the most trustworthy, bombproof horse can have an off day, so I approach every session with caution and awareness. In general, horse photography sessions are very safe, but I reserve the right to stop or modify a session if a horse's behavior becomes unsafe.
No photograph is worth risking the safety of you, your horse, or anyone involved.
What if my horse becomes overwhelmed?
That's completely understandable.
Horse photoshoots are not something most horses experience regularly, so it's normal for some horses to become overstimulated or uncertain. Throughout the session, I'm constantly watching your horse's body language and trying to recognize signs of stress before they become a larger issue.
If your horse starts feeling overwhelmed, we'll take a break. That may mean taking a walk around the property, spending a few minutes in their stall, standing near a buddy horse, or simply giving them time to relax before continuing.
Can we stop for breaks?
Absolutely.
Some horses need more breaks than others, and that's perfectly okay. Outfit changes naturally create opportunities for your horse to rest, but we can take additional breaks whenever needed.
My goal is for both you and your horse to remain comfortable throughout the session so we can create natural, relaxed images together.
Will you ever ask me to do something unsafe?
No, and I will never ask you to do something I wouldn’t do.
While we may have a specific image or pose in mind, safety always comes first. If your horse isn't comfortable, the environment isn't appropriate, or something simply doesn't feel safe, we'll move on to another idea.
There is always another photograph to create. Your safety and your horse's wellbeing are far more important.
Can children participate in horse sessions?
Absolutely.
Some of my favorite horse and rider portraits involve children and their first horses or ponies. Those early years often become some of the most treasured memories in a rider's life.
The bond between a young rider and their horse is something special, and portraits allow those memories to be preserved long after the pony years have passed.
Do I have to ride for my session?
Not at all.
Most horse and rider portraits actually happen on the ground. The focus is on the relationship between you and your horse, not whether you're in the saddle.
If you'd like to include riding images, we can absolutely plan for that. Bareback portraits are also an option if you're already comfortable and experienced riding bareback on that particular horse.
Can my horse stay on a lead rope?
Yes, they can.
We'll do whatever makes both you and your horse the most comfortable. Lead ropes are commonly used during sessions and are often the safest choice.
If possible, I recommend a neutral-colored lead rope since it tends to be less distracting in photographs.
What if my horse can't be ridden anymore?
This is actually one of the most meaningful times to schedule a session.
Most horse and rider portraits take place on the ground, so riding is rarely necessary to create beautiful images. Whether your horse is retired, recovering, or simply no longer able to be ridden, your relationship is still worth celebrating.
In many cases, these sessions become some of the most treasured photographs a horse owner will ever have.