The Safety and Comfort of Our Horses During Photography Sessions

We love our horses so much that it’s easy to forget they are still 1,000-pound prey animals, instinctively wired to be highly alert and responsive to their surroundings. As flight animals, horses are naturally in tune with the world around them and can become reactive if they feel threatened or uneasy. Because of this, during any type of photography session, the safety and well-being of both the rider and the horse come first.

Photography is about capturing beautiful moments, but it's essential to remember that a horse's stress can disrupt these moments. We approach each session with calmness and patience, constantly observing the horse's behavior for signs of discomfort. The horse's well-being—both emotional and physical—remains our top priority, and we take active steps to ensure they feel safe and relaxed throughout the process.

It’s important to recognize the signs of an uneasy horse, as they may not always vocalize their discomfort in ways that are easy to understand. As herd animals, they communicate their stress through body language, which is why it's essential to watch for certain behaviors that can indicate they are feeling overwhelmed. Some of these signs include:

• Pawing or stomping

• Excessive neighing or whinnying

• Head very high

• Whites of eyes showing

• Circling or being pushy

• Flared nostrils or snorting

• Trying to bite or kick

  
  

As soon as we notice any of these stress signals, we take action to mitigate the discomfort and help the horse feel more at ease. There are a few strategies we employ to keep the session safe and smooth for everyone involved.

• For example, if the horse is buddy sour, or showing distress from being away from a companion, we may bring their friend into view to help soothe them. Horses are herd animals, and knowing their buddy is nearby can provide them with a sense of calm.

• If the location we’ve chosen for the shoot seems to be a stressor, we may relocate to a quieter, more familiar area. Sometimes, moving closer to the barn or trying a different spot altogether can make all the difference.

• Additionally, if the horse seems to need a break, we’ll pause the session and give them some time to decompress. Taking a short break in their stall allows the horse to relax and regroup, which can be beneficial for resetting their mental state.

Our approach to photography is always about capturing the beauty of the moment, but we know that a comfortable, happy horse makes for a much more enjoyable and successful session. By staying vigilant and mindful of our horse’s well-being, we can ensure a safe and pleasant experience for everyone involved—both human and equine.

In the end, the bond between rider and horse is the foundation of any great photo shoot, and we are committed to fostering that connection while prioritizing the comfort and safety of our beloved horses.

Image:

Behind the scenes, keeping the horse comfortable with his buddy nearby, or in this case keeping the buddy calm himself: