The Ultimate Picture-Perfect Prep Guide for Stunning Horse Photos

If you’re gearing up for a professional horse and rider photography session, preparation is key to capturing the best possible images of you and your equine partner. This Prep Guide is designed to help you get the most out of your session and ensure that you and your horse look your best.

Please remember, while I’ll work my magic during the session, following these steps will make a big difference in the final results.

Essential Prep Guide Steps for the Perfect Shoot

The Setup

To ensure a successful session, all my photography appointments are scheduled for either sunrise or sunset and are conducted across the farm’s property. If you have a specific location in mind, spend some time there with your horse beforehand to help them get comfortable. Additionally, wear seasonal clothing with proper footwear and make sure your horse’s tack is properly fitted and oiled to ensure comfort and safety throughout the session.

- What’s Included in Your Session?

Horse and rider sessions offer flexibility, including options for connection images with your horse on the ground, under saddle, at liberty, black background shots (which require a barn or enclosed area), and conformation head/body shots. Choose your package wisely, as a larger package will allow more time and variety in the images captured.

- The Importance of Having an Assistant

Having an extra pair of hands can make a significant difference. I strongly recommend that you have a horse-savvy friend, family member, or trainer present during the shoot. Their assistance with posing and directing your horse’s attention will be invaluable in helping me capture the best possible images.

If you don’t have an assistant available, just let me know, and I’ll arrange one for you.

Grooming and Tack Preparation

- Make Your Horse Shine

A well-groomed horse leads to better photos. Ensure your horse is groomed and ready at least 10 minutes before the session starts. If possible, bathe and dry your horse the day before to avoid a wet coat showing up in your photos. Use Show Sheen for a glossy look, and apply a little baby oil or Vaseline on their nose and ears to remove any dusty appearance. Clean any white socks or markings with baby powder or a specialized white spray.

- Tack and Equipment

Ensure all tack, including saddle pads, bits, polo wraps, and bell boots, is clean and oiled. Leather bridles or halters are preferred for portraits; if you don’t have a show or leather halter, we’ll use a clean bridle instead. Have a clean lead rope without a chain available. Fly spray your horse before the session and keep extra on hand to keep your horse calm and settled.

- Prepare for Multiple Horses

If you have multiple horses, ensure they are ready and easily accessible before the session starts. If your horse has been in crossties, allow them a break to rest and relieve themselves before the shoot begins.

Additional Tips for the Best Photos

- The Naked Halter

The “Naked Halter” is available upon request. This thin photography halter allows us to pose your horse easily while achieving a clean look that we’ll enhance in post-production.

- Treats and Motivation

Know your horse’s favorite treats and have extras on hand. Treats help in directing your horse and rewarding patience and cooperation. Pre-cut apples or carrots into small pieces to avoid excessive slobber in your photos.

- Exercise and Patience

If your horse tends to be excitable, consider lunging or riding them an hour before the session to help them cool down. Brush up on ground manners in the weeks leading up to the shoot. For calm and relaxed horses, avoid exercise and focus on what motivates them to show their best expressions.

By following the guidelines in this Prep Guide, you’ll set the stage for a successful professional horse photography session. I look forward to capturing stunning images of you and your horse!