Erin, Rex & Gimli at Tri-State in Cleveland, TN

Horse and Rider Photoshoot in McDonald, Tennessee

Some horse and rider photoshoots feel meaningful the moment you start shooting — not because of the poses, but because of the relationship standing in front of my camera.

Erin’s horse and rider photoshoot at the Tri-State Therapeutic Center in McDonald, Tennessee was exactly that.

Erin is one of those people who always puts others first. She works at the Therapeutic center at Tri-State, where her days are spent helping, guiding, and supporting others — both people and horses. This session was a rare moment where the focus was on her, and on the two that mean the world to her: her horse Rex and her dog Gimli.

We photographed this session Therapeutic center at Tri-State in Cleveland, Tennessee, just minutes from McDonald, TN — a place that isn’t just a location for Erin, but part of her everyday life.

Ready to plan Your Own Photoshoot?

Including Gimli in Horse and Rider Photos

Because He’s Part of Her World

Gimli may be small, but his role in Erin’s life is huge. He’s her shadow, her comfort, and very much part of her daily routine.

Including him in this horse and rider photoshoot was important to Erin, even if Gimli wasn’t completely sold on the idea at first. With a little patience, we captured moments that show exactly why he belongs in these photos — because this story wouldn’t be complete without him.

Horse and rider photos become even more meaningful when they include the animals that share your life beyond the barn.Kind Words

Kind Words ….. I’m forever thankful

The entire experience with Nicole Pols Photography has become an experience I treasure just as much as the photos themselves. I had never done a photo shoot with my animals before, but Nicole made everything super easy and fun. Any self-consciousness I had melted right away under her direction. The whole session was a joy and she has THE BEST ideas for poses, backdrops, and making magic with the light! Best of all Nicole really picked up on our personalities and relationship, and she managed to bring that through expertly in the images. Having these photos means more to me than I can possibly express, and I’m forever thankful for the beautiful memories that Nicole captured and created!

Erin

Horse and rider photoshoot in McDonald Tennessee with rider, dog and horse

Why Tri-State in Cleveland, Tennessee Was the Perfect Location

Tri-State in Cleveland, Tennessee wasn’t just convenient — it was personal.

As the place where Erin works at the therapeutic center, it represents the care and dedication she gives every day. Photographing her horse and rider photos here added another layer of meaning to the session.

Open spaces that keep horses relaxed
Clean backgrounds for timeless equine portraits
A familiar environment that allowed Erin and Rex to settle naturally

It’s an ideal setting for Western horse photography and horse and rider photos alike.

you want your own western Portrait shoot?

Horse and Rider Photos That Reflect Who You Ar

This session with Erin and Rex is a perfect example of how horse and rider photos can reflect more than just how things look — they show who you are at your core.

I’m specialize in Horse photography and have photographed hundreds of horses and riders across Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama – creating horse and rider photos that focus on connection, trust, and presence.

Western horse and rider photos at Tri-State in Cleveland TN.

What to Expect From a Horse and Rider Photoshoot

A successful horse and rider photoshoot starts with intention. From choosing the right location to guiding gentle posing, everything is planned so the experience feels calm and organized.