7 Reasons Your Horse Business Desperately Needs a Commercial Equine Photographer
Your horse business isn’t just a job; it’s your life and a labor of love. You pour your heart, soul, and maybe even a few tears (no judgment—we’ve all been there) into making it thrive.
But let’s be honest: those grainy smartphone photos you are using? They are not doing you any favors. That’s where a commercial equine photographer, your new secret weapon. Here are seven reasons why partnering with one could be the best decision you’ll make for your business.
1. They’re Obsessed With Horses (And It Shows)
Horse people speak their own language. Okay, not really, but it might as well be true. W
A commercial equine photographer speaks your language. They know a fetlock from a forelock and will never confuse a Clydesdale with a Connemara. this isn’t their first time in the barn, and it shows in every image.
You need someone who gets it – the horse world. A great commercial horse photographer can make the horses look their absolute best while capturing their unique personalities (because let’s face it, phone cameras just don’t cut it).
2. They Highlight the Horse-Human Bond
The bond between horses and their people is what keeps the equestrian world spinning. A commercial equine photographer knows how to expertly capture that connection, whether it’s a candid moment between a trainer and horse or a quiet gaze from a client’s loyal gelding.
These images don’t just look great; they create an emotional connection with your audience, which keeps them coming back.
3. They’re Visual Storytellers
Ever heard the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words”? It’s true. Visuals are king in marketing. A great equine photographer doesn’t just snap pictures; they craft a story. Whether you are showcasing your barn’s facilities, promoting a new product, or introducing your champion stallion, custom photos can do the heavy lifting. Why rely on text-heavy marketing when visuals can say it all in the blink of an eye.
4. They Know How to Work Safely Around Horses
Let’s not sugarcoat it – horses are majestic but unpredictable. A commercial equine photographer understands horse behavior and knows how to work safely around them. Safety is a top priority, both for the animals and everyone involved. This means fewer headaches and better results for you.
5. They Understand Conformation (So The Horses Don’t Look Awkward)
Conformation is everything when it comes to selling horses, promoting training programs, or showcasing breeding stock. A commercial equine photographer knows how to position your horses to highlight their best features. They understand what buyers look for and can minimize any imperfections, helping you to make the right impression. Say goodbye to awkward angles that make your champion stallion look like a backyard pony.
6. They’ll Make Your Brand Shine
Your horse business isn’t cookie-cutter, so why should your images be? A commercial equine photographer will create visuals that scream you. Whether your business vibe is tough and rugged or sleek and sophisticated, a commercial equine photographer can create images that align with your brand identity. These photos will keep your website, social media, and marketing materials looking polished and cohesive. No more stock photos that scream “generic!”
7. They Boost Your Marketing Game
Let’s talk stats for a minute. A joint study by 3M and the University of Minnesota found that people process visuals 60,000 times faster than text.
Translation? Custom, high-quality images will grab your audience’s attention faster than you can say, “Where’s the fly spray?” Professional photography not only keeps potential clients on your website longer but also makes your business look like the rockstar operation it is.
In Conclusion
Look, your horse business deserves better than blurry photos and mismatched branding. Hiring a commercial equine photographer is an investment in your business’s future. From jaw-dropping imagery to marketing materials that actually work, the right photographer will help you stand out from the herd.
So, what’s the next step?
Let’s get to work! Contact Ride the Sky Equine Photography to create custom images that will elevate your horse business and leave a lasting impression.
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 works with pet and horse businesses and brands to provide commercial photography for their advertising and marketing needs in both the digital and print spaces. Ride the Sky Equine Photography is based in Chattanooga, TN, and works in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond.