Don’t Wait: Fall Equine Photoshoots Book Months in Advance

Why Fall Equine Photoshoots Are the Pop Star of Photography (And Why You Need to Book Yesterday)

So, you’re dreaming of a fall equine photoshoot? Excellent choice.

Fall is the pop star of photography seasons—cooler weather, stunning colors, and, best of all, fewer bugs plotting to ruin your day. Of course, here in East Tennessee and North Georgia, I probably had you at the idea of cooler weather. Who wants to be sweating it out in the heat and humidity?

But here’s the catch: everyone else loves fall too. If you want to lock in a date, you’ve got to act fast. Like, 8-9 months in advance fast. Don’t worry, I’m about to spill the tea on why fall is the hottest ticket in equine photography and why booking early is essential.

Why Fall Is the It Season for Equine Photoshoots

Fall is like that effortlessly photogenic friend we all secretly envy—golden light, fiery leaves, and cozy vibes that flatter everyone, including your horse. But perfection comes at a price: high demand. Let’s dive into why fall photoshoots are the most sought-after seasaon and why you need to snag your date before it’s gone.

Prime Date Availability: Lock It In

Want those picture-perfect fall leaves in your photos? You’re not alone. Peak fall foliage is gorgeous and, here in southeastern Tennessee, often short-lived. Photographers who know their area’s peak color timing schedule these dates carefully, and those dates go quickly.

For example, in Chattanooga, our fall varies dramatically each year – some years we can have six weeks of gorgeous leaves. And the next year we might have 10 days of brownish-yellow leaves before everything is dead.

If you want until late spring or summer to try booking a fall slot, you might be left with slim pickings or – gasp – no availablity at all. Early birds really do get the best fall photoshoots.

Pro tip: If you are looking for equestrian senior portraits, the majority of clients call during the fall of their junior year to book Fall of their senior year. Learn more about senior portraits here. 

Photographer Availability

It would be nice to think that I’m the horse photographer for everyone but let’s be real, I’m definitely not. But, no matter what photographer you choose, if they photograph outdoors, fall is their busiest season.

The best equine photographers (hint: me) book up faster than a Thoroughbred heading to the finish line. If you’ve got your heart set on working with someone specific, booking 8-9 months in advance is your golden ticket. Don’t wait, or you might find yourself stuck with someone you aren’t really vibing with, or waiting an additional year to get who you want. 

Pro Tip: Want to know if I’m the right photographer for you? Read this and see!

Time to Plan the Perfect Wardrobe

Want to rock a flowing dress, cozy sweater, or dramatic hat in your portraits? Booking early gives you time to plan. But don’t stop there — if you are planning on wearing something that might cause your horse to spook (think a long, flowing – and flapping – dress), make sure to introduce your horse to your outfit. Trust me, you don’t want your majestic steed spooking and dumping you in the dirt.

Booking in advance means plenty of time to practice and ensure everyone is photo-ready.

Pro Tip: Been digging in your clothes and don’t love what you see? No Worries! Ride the Sky clients have access to the style closet and resource lists. You can find the outfits you are dreaming of.

Time for Grooming and Prep

Horses don’t just wake up ready for their close-up. Booking ahead gives you time to schedule clipping, braiding, and all the grooming your horse needs to look like the rock star they are. Plus, it gives you time to clean tack. 

And let’s not forget about you—whether it’s a fresh haircut, a mani-pedi, or a new outfit, you’ve got time to make sure you’re looking as fabulous as your horse.

Pro Tip: Want stress-free horse portraits? Download the Prep Checklist for Horse Portraits here. 

Budget-Friendly Planning

Let’s talk money. Booking early means you can budget for your session and those gorgeous products over time. Whether it’s custom wall art, a stunning album, or keepsakes featuring your horse’s best angles, spreading out the cost makes the whole experience way less stressful. 

Pro-Tip: Among other payment options, Ride the Sky offers pre-payment plans so that at your Design Consult you already know what you have to spend!

The Magic of Fall Vibes

Fall has a mood, and it’s iconic. Think vibrant reds, warm oranges, and golden yellows. In many cases, horse coat colors look like they were made for fall. You and your horse practically become the stars of your own autumn fairytale. Booking early ensures you don’t miss out on those peak fall vibes that make everyone swoon.

Time to Plan Your Products

Your photos aren’t just for Instagram—they’re heirlooms. Booking early gives you time to think about how you’ll display them.

Want a statement piece for over your living room’s couch or mantle? A gallery wall featuring all the things you love about your horse? A custom album to display on your coffee table and flip through on rainy days? There are so many options as to what you can do with your images.

Planning ahead means you’ll be ready to showcase your photos in style.

FAQ: What You Need to Know About Fall Equine Photoshoots

Q1: Why book so early for a fall equine photoshoot?
A: Fall is peak season, and the best dates (and horse photographers) fill up fast. Waiting too long means slim pickings—or worse, no pickings.

Q2: How far in advance should I book?
A: At least 8-9 months in advance. High school seniors with horses? Plan on booking fall of junior year for senior portraits.

Q3: What happens if I miss the fall window?
A: Don’t panic! Every season has its charm. Spring offers fresh blooms, summer has long golden evenings, and winter brings moody, magical vibes.

Q4: What should I wear for a fall photoshoot?
A: Think cozy and classic—sweaters, boots, scarves. Just make sure it’s horse-friendly and complements the stunning autumn backdrop and your horse’s coloring.  Need more help? Ride the Sky clients have access to our guides that walk you through everything you need.

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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.