It's a good idea to prepare your horse the same way you would for a show.

You want your horse looking as clean as possible so this means bathing them the night before or the morning of your shoot.

Cleaning & polishing their hooves & having a nice clean bridle & bit is also a good idea.If you're bathing your horse in the morning, you'll want to leave ample time for them to dry before their big moment.

The same goes for leaving enough time for you to prepare yourself too but we'll come on to this later.

You can also choose to plait your horse up or you may prefer them to be natural.

TOP TIP !!

If you're adding shine spray to their coat to add that extra sparkle, be sure to leave this off the saddle area if you'd like to do some sitting bare back shots!

​

How should I prepare MYSELF

I tend to suggest wearing colours that will compliment your horses coat colour & the current season.

For example, if your shoot is taking place in the autumn, a nice chunky knit jumper or poncho, skinny jeans & country boots look timeless & fitting for the season.

I often advise bringing a few clothing options on the day which may include your Show attire, a Casual look & perhaps a long or short dress for that wow factor at the end!

But most importantly, you should wear whatever you feel more comfortable in.

If you are wearing riding or country boots, its a good idea to polish them the night before & bring a comfy pair of shoes to wear to the location if you're brave enough for stilettos!

A Three Person Shoot

I have tried many times in the past to shoot a Black Background session using only 2 people but sadly it just doesn't work. You definitely need 3 people

The owner will be holding the horse so it doesn't move from the spot.

The assistant will be posing the horse and getting it's attention in different directions

The photographer can then concentrate on Photographing the horse and getting the best shots. 

​

Where do I find the Best LOCATION

Most people have their shoots at their yards or a nearby bridleway and knowing what to look for in a location is going to help best you for when you go looking.

If you feel your yard may not suitable, you could take a look at hiring a local cross country course, taking your horse to the beach or perhaps transporting them to a friends yard or home.

Here's some ideas of places that make ideal locations for photoshoots : Country Lanes or tracks, bluebell woods, flower fields or open fields with long grass and light & airy woods.

The most important thing to check with any location you find is that it has (and allows) horse access !

Top Tip ! Having your shoot early in the morning or late in the evening will create the best lighting

.

​

​

​

​