Picture this: It’s a crisp spring morning at Euchee Meadows Equestrian. And what are we doing? Creating holiday horse portraits, of course!
Holiday horse portraits aren’t just about creating stunning images—though, of course, that’s the goal.
At a lesson barn like Euchee, these portraits offer a fantastic opportunity for young and new equestrians to practice their grooming and handling skills. Plus, horses get valuable desensitization training with all the festive props and decorations.
Planning holiday horse photography sessions, no matter the season, takes some work. But trust me, it’s worth it. Let’s dive into the steps to make your holiday horse portraits truly magical.
Scouting the Perfect Location
When it comes to holiday horse portraits, the right background can make all the difference. You can choose a barn setting, a field, or even a fence, depending on your vision and location.
Also, consider the weather. In Tennessee, our weather can be quite temperamental. Since I photograph holiday portraits year-round, spring showers, summer heat, or autumn leaves can all impact a photography session.
Always check the forecast and have a backup plan. You don’t want to be caught in a surprise downpour with a decked-out holiday horse!
Coordinating with Clients and Their Horses
Smooth coordination between client and photographer is essential for holiday horse portraits.
Start with clear communication to ensure everyone shares the same vision. Discuss the theme, props, and desired shots in detail. This prevents any surprises, like a photographer envisioning a lit-up backdrop while the client wants a homespun country Christmas look.
Understanding horse behavior and temperament is also crucial.
Not all horses are comfortable with props or lighting. Some might spook at a wreath around their neck, while others might not. Always have alternatives ready.
For instance, if a horse is uneasy with a wreath, try placing it on a fenceline or in the barn instead. Keeping the horses relaxed and happy is key to achieving festive photos.
Selecting the Perfect Props
Festive decorations and accessories can elevate your holiday horse portraits.
Wreaths and garlands are classic, but don’t stop there. Use your imagination to create unique looks. Consider cozy blankets for a warm touch or Santa hats for a playful vibe. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
However, safety and comfort for the horse are paramount. Prioritize safety for everyone involved: the photographer, client, horse, other animals, and property.
A spooked horse can cause significant damage. Ensure decorations are secure and not likely to startle the horse. If a prop makes a horse uneasy, switch to a less intimidating option. A calm horse will lead to a more successful and enjoyable photo session.
Wardrobe and Grooming Tips
Dress to impress!
Holiday-themed outfits can add an extra layer of festivity to your horse portraits. If you plan to be in the images with your horse, make sure you dress the part too.
Coordinating outfits with your horse’s decorations creates a cohesive and charming look. Think cozy sweaters, festive scarves, or matching accessories. A well-dressed pair makes the photos even more enchanting.
Grooming is also essential for a picture-perfect look.
The more effort you put into grooming, the more stunning the images will be. Aim to get your horse show-ready with thorough brushing, mane and tail detangling, and a clean, shiny coat.
Don’t forget the finishing touches like hoof oil and a quick polish of any tack.
Conclusion: Bringing It All Together
Creating enchanting holiday portraits of your horse involves thoughtful planning and preparation.
From scouting the perfect location to coordinating with clients and ensuring your horse looks their best, each step is crucial for capturing magical moments. Remember, the goal is to make the experience enjoyable and safe for everyone involved.
Now that you’re equipped with these tips, it’s time to start planning your own holiday horse portrait session.
Ready to capture some festive magic?
Betsy Bird, Cr. Photog., CPP, of Ride the Sky Equine Photography spends her days doing insane things to make animals look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. Outside of acting like a total goofball, she invests in growing her business, mentoring photographers, dealing with her teenagers' angst, and hanging with Nitro, the best dog ever.
Betsy has earned her Photographic Craftsman degree from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) which honors photographers who contribute to the photographic industry through speaking, mentoring, and publishing. Betsy is also a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with PPA. The CPP designation is held by fewer than 2,500 photographers nationwide and is a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry, and professionalism.
Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) and the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association (TNPPA). She is also a professional member of the Equine Photographers Network (EPN).
Betsy's award-winning work has been featured in a variety of publications and is found throughout homes and stables in the United States. She is also the co-author of the book, Equine & Equestrian Photography Poses that Sell: The Ultimate Guide to Posing Horses & Humans. She has also been featured on Scenic Trend, the Profitable Photographer Podcast, The Business Animal Podcast, Chatter Magazine, Cowgirls with Cameras Podcast, the Chattanooga Times Free Press, the Chattanoogan, and the Focal Points Podcast to name a few.
Ride the Sky Equine Photography specializes in on-location photography for horses and their equestrians. Ride the Sky Equine Photography is based in Chattanooga, TN and works in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond.