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.
Ready to Book Your Fall Equine Portrait Session?
Fall sessions book up faster than your horse can gallop to the nearest treat. If you’re ready for those gorgeous autumn vibes, don’t wait.
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Betsy Bird of Ride the Sky Equine Photography spends her days doing insane things to make horses look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. When she’s not acting like a total goofball, she’s mentoring photographers, wrangling teenagers, or hanging with Derby, hanging out with Derby, the new puppy who is currently training to be office assistant (jury’s still out on whether “chewing cords” counts as professional development).
Betsy is an award-winning equine and pet photographer based in Chattanooga, TN, and serves on the Board of Directors of the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) and is the current President-Elect of the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association (TNPPA). Her work has been published nationally and is found in barns and homes across the U.S. Ride the Sky is creates heirloom artwork for horses and their humans.