Preparing for an Equine Shoot

Preparing Yourself...

We want your outfit to reflect you, it can add SO much to the images and the vibe of the photos. You may want soft and light, bold and moody, country western, smart and sharp, beauty and glamour. Consider a theme when selecting your outfit Whatever it is, here are some things to think about!

• Keep it casual - Jeans, skirt and a cute top are simple and can be beautiful! In the winter adding a hat, big scarf, fuzzy jacket or shawl looks great and will help keep you warm. Also in the winter, clean gloves that will match your outfit and keep your hands warm is smart.
• Equestrian style - Combine your favorite riding breeches or Wrangler Jeans with beautiful top. Tall leather riding boots or Cowboy boots (cleaned up of course) look very sharp with this type of outfit.
• Dress it up - Some may select a big ball gown or sun dress, which ever best reflects you!

Keep in Mind

• The colour of your horse. What colour(s) stand out and look best with your horses coat? Example: Palomino with a yellow or orange outfit may not look as sharp as a bold burgundy or deep navy. Think of the vibe you want to have. A soft pink can also look great with a Palomino.
• Layering Clothing - This can really elevate a look and be very pleasing to the eye. Consider the tones, textures and lengths when pairing clothing together. Sometimes you will find great items at your local thrift shop; even better they are cheap! Just remember to steam or iron your outfit to avoid wrinkles. Colours from the same palate look great together, especially neutrals.
• Avoid - Wearing large logos, prints, bright, reflective clothing and/or combining different patterns & stripes. Also, avoid dressing in all black, it typically does not photograph well.
• Make Up - This is up to you. However much or little you want, it's whatever you feel the most comfortable in. You may decide to to have your make up professionally done (I have a great recommendation!) or wear none at all. Just remember to do what you feel comfortable, if you do not feel like yourself, it can reflect in the photos.
• Nail Colour - If you choose to paint your nails, consider matching them to your outfit. It is a small detail, but makes a difference!

On shoot day, be sure to give yourself enough time to get ready.

Please see some great examples in the images below...

And as always, reach out if you have any questions!

Preparing Your Horse...

You want your bestie to be SHOW READY! In some cases having your horse ready the evening before and putting a sheet on overnight to keep them clean is great. Take the hard work out of shoot day and lets make it seamless!

• Tack selection - you can choose to outfit your horse in their bridle, headstall or leather halter. Again, think of the vibe you want to create. I cannot express how important it is to have clean tack. Don't forget to polish the bit if you are using a bridle. If you are having a western theme always use western head gear.
• Show Ready - if bathing is an option, do it. If we are in the deep of winter, you may have to put some muscle into it! Curry comb and show sheen will be your best friend. Mane and tail should be neatly combed and trimmed if needed.
• Small Details - A little hoof oil can also look nice, we want it to dry a little prior to the shoot, so apply it 10-15 minutes before. With a damp cloth, wipe the inside of their ears and nostrils. A little baby oil on the muzzle can help add contrast and look sharp.

Keep in Mind

• Your horse may be super well behaved on a daily basis, however, asking them to do photos is a whole new ball game. We will be asking your horse to move their feet and stand square, put their ears up and perhaps move around the property away from their friends. I highly recommend lightly lunging your horse. No need to work up a sweat, our goal is to take the edge off a little. I cannot express how important this is and how it can help the two of you feel a little more connected.
• Avoid feeding treats prior to the shoot. We want to do our best to keep their mouths clean and some horses can get greedy! You know the feeling, sometimes its really hard to just have 1 bite! At the end of the shoot, we may use treats to help us achieve certain poses.
• Make sure they have a fully belly and have had plenty of hay to nibble on. If it is near feeding time be sure they have had breakfast or dinner. Keeping your horse as close to their normal routine as possible will help them to stand patiently. We want to keep them focused on you, not their next meal.

Always remember to HAVE FUN and stay relaxed. Horses, like people have their own thoughts and personalities. Sometimes it is not their day or they can be feeling especially naughty and spooky. If this situation arises we will work together to keep your horse comfortable and work safely. This is why you want to hire me as your Professional Equine Photographer.