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 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.