Let’s talk about something super important: what in the world are you going to wear for your equestrian portrait session? I know, it feels like a mix of science, art, and a touch of sorcery. But don’t panic!
You probably already have a few gems hiding in your closet. Before you dive headfirst into wardrobe chaos, let me break down some key tips to make sure you and your horse look like the icons you are.
Location, Location, Location: Does It Matter?
Short answer: yes, it absolutely matters. Imagine this: you’re standing in a dreamy forest with vibrant fall foliage—yellows, oranges, reds. And you’re rocking a bright pink top with light blue jeans. Yikes. Talk about a mismatch.
Here’s the fix: match your outfit to the vibe of the location. Fall leaves? Go for earthy tones. Spring flowers? Light pastels. Not sure if your outfit idea works? Ask me! I’ve scouted these spots in every season and can totally help you avoid an outfit fail.
And hey, if your dream outfit doesn’t vibe with your horse’s usual stomping grounds, we can explore other options. I have a list of beautiful venues that’ll make you and your outfit shine.
Does the Season Really Matter?
Oh, honey, it does. Here in East Tennessee and North Georgia, the seasons aren’t just seasons—they’re a full-on drama queen production. Summers are hot and sticky, falls are bi-polar at best, and winters are all about the gray…and the mud, so much mud.
Think lightweight and breezy for spring and summer: flowy dresses, airy tops, and hats to keep the sun off (bonus points if they’re cute and functional). For fall, whip out the boots, cozy sweaters, and jeans. And winter? Channel your inner snow queen with scarves, mittens, and layers. Remember, layers not only keep you warm but also give your photos more depth.
And colors? Each season has its palette. Winter leans cool and blue, while fall is all warm and golden. Don’t worry—if this feels overwhelming, I’ve got your back with a Style Guide and even a Style Closet for Ride the Sky Equine Photography clients.
Matching With Your Horse: A Color Wheel Affair
Let’s all agree to leave those 80s matching family photo nightmares in the past. (Yes, we’re talking about the white shirts and denim jeans monstrosity.) These days, it’s all about coordination, not cloning.
For example, if you have a black horse, resist the urge to wear all black. You don’t want to blend into your horse like a shadow. Instead, think complementary colors: deep jewel tones, earthy neutrals, or bold contrasts that pop.
Need inspo? Check out my Pinterest boards for ideas that slay.
Do My Boots Have to Match My Horse’s Saddle?
Look, I’m not here to micromanage your footwear, but matching your leathers is an easy way to create harmony in your photos.
If your horse’s tack is black, go for black boots and belts. Brown saddle? Stick to warm-toned accessories. It’s a subtle touch that makes a big difference.
What If My Closet Says, ‘Nope’?
Don’t worry—if your closet isn’t serving up the vibes you’re looking for, I’ve got options. My RTS Style Closet is full of curated pieces that photograph beautifully.
Need more guidance? Ride the Sky Equine Photography clients also get access to a list of stores with outfits that look amazing in photos and won’t break the bank.
Let’s Nail Your Look
Planning the perfect outfit for your equestrian portrait session doesn’t have to feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube. With a little strategy, some expert guidance, and access to resources like my Style Guide and Closet, we’ll have you looking and feeling like a total boss. And remember, the goal is timeless, stunning wall art that you’ll treasure forever.
Ready to slay your session? Contact me today to start planning your dream equestrian portraits. Or, if you’re still gathering ideas, check out my Pinterest boards and blog posts for more inspiration. Let’s make magic happen!
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Let’s design a session that showcases you and your horse at your best!
Not ready to schedule your equestrian portraits yet? No worries! Join the Ride the Sky Herd for more tips, tricks, and inspiration.
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.