The Pros & Cons to every Season for a Horse Photoshoot

The Pros and Cons of Every Season for a Horse Photoshoot

Wondering when to schedule that perfect horse photoshoot with your equine bestie? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each season here in the Chattanooga and North Georgia area. Because let’s face it, every season has its quirks — just like your favorite horse!

Oh, and one thing before we dive in: if you’ve got a specific season in mind, book early. Like, yesterday early. Ride the Sky Equine Photography typically books 6–7 months in advance, and fall sessions? Those can be gone 8–9 months ahead of time.

Pro tip: High school seniors with their horses often book their fall session during junior year.

Spring Horse Photoshoot: Green, Gorgeous, and… Muddy

Pros for Spring:

• Cooler weather: You won’t melt into a puddle of sweat because it’s not peak southern humidity yet. Yay!
• Sleek horses: Most horses are shedding out or freshly clipped for show season. That shiny, slick coat? Chef’s kiss.
• Vibrant backgrounds: Think lush greens, blooming flowers, and trees shedding their winter gloom. It’s like nature’s Instagram filter.

Cons for Spring:

• Rain, rain, go away: And when it doesn’t, you’re rescheduling. I’ve had years where I have had to reschedule every single spring session due to rain. But, don’t worry, we fit them all in!
• Mud Monsters: Got a gray horse? Prepare for extra elbow grease to get them clean. Nothing like living in the land of red clay with a light-colored horse, right?
• More rain = more mud: Did I mention the mud? Because… mud.

Summer Horse Photoshoot: Slick Coats and Sun Hats

Pros for Summer:

• Smooth coats: Your horse is in their summer best—no shedding patches or weird fuzzies.
• Dry ground: No spring muck to wade through, which means cleaner hooves and cleaner you.
• Adorable outfits: Sundresses, boots, and floppy hats, oh my!
• Longer days: More time to catch that golden hour glow without rushing.

Cons for Summer:

• Heat: If “walking into a sauna” isn’t your vibe, skip this season. 
• Humidity: And for my curly-haired friends, this is not the time for photo-perfect hair. 
• Bugs, bugs, bugs: Mosquitoes, gnats, and flies. You’ll want to bring enough bug spray to fumigate a barn.

Fall Horse Photoshoot: Colorful Leaves and Cozy Vibes

Pros for Fall:

• Cooler temps: Late October and early November are prime time for comfy weather.
• Stunning colors: Reds, oranges, and yellows make for jaw-dropping backdrops.
• Pretty leaves: Want to toss some leaves around? Go for it. (It’s not just for kids, okay?)
• Earlier sunsets: Capture that dreamy golden light and still get to bed by 9 p.m.

Cons for Fall:

• Winter fuzzies: Some horses start their winter coat earlier, which may not match your sleek and shiny dreams.
• Shorter days: After daylight savings, you’ll feel like the sun sets at lunch.

Winter Horse Photoshoot: Moody Backdrops and Snow Dreams

Pros for Winter:

• Unique vibes: Those browns and grays make colorful outfits pop beautifully.
• Adorable winter outfits: Jackets, scarves, boots—oh my! Time to bring out the Pinterest-worthy wardrobe.
• Snow magic: On those rare snow days, you can capture something straight out of a holiday card.

Cons for Winter:

• Gloom city: February, in particular, loves to be gray, wet, and blah.
• Snow roulette: Will it stick? Melt by noon? Turn into brown slush? Winter in Tennessee keeps you guessing.

The Fun Factor: Let’s Make It an Adventure

Now, let’s talk about the best part of a horse photoshoot—having fun! If your idea of fun involves watching my assistant sweet talk your horse in a PG-13 way or me accidentally getting covered in a combination of horse slobber, sweat, and dirt (picture Ross and the Leather Pants in Friends… “It’s made a PASTE!”), we’re going to get along just fine.

I’ve had dogs plop onto my lap  (or climb on my back…) mid-session, foals lick my camera lens, and yes, I’ve been photobombed by more barn cats than I can count. The point is, no matter what, we’re going to roll with it, laugh a lot, and create something magical.

What’s the Best Season for Your Horse Photoshoot?

Spoiler alert: The best season is the one that works for you and your horse.

Every season comes with its own charm (and challenges), but no matter when you book, we’ll create stunning, lasting images that you’ll love and want to display in your home.

Remember, if you have your heart set on a fall session or want senior portraits, don’t wait—book as early as possible to snag your spot!

FAQs About Planning Your Horse Photoshoot

Let’s tackle some of the burning questions that might be swirling around in your head as you plan your horse photoshoot. Because, yes, these things come up all the time, and I’m here to help you feel like a pro before the session even starts.

1. How far in advance should I book my horse photoshoot?

Oh, friend, let’s just say early bird gets the worm. Or in this case, the golden hour glow. I typically book sessions 6–7 months in advance, and for fall? You’re looking at 8–9 months ahead of time. High school seniors with their horses? Book the fall of your junior year for the fall of your senior year. Bottom line: don’t wait until the leaves start changing or the spring blooms pop. Book now so you’re not stuck with a sad “fully booked” email.

2. What if my horse doesn’t behave during the session?

First of all, have you met horses? Mischief is their middle name. But seriously, this isn’t my first rodeo—literally. If your horse decides to channel their inner diva, don’t sweat it. I’ve got tricks up my sleeve, and we’ll work with their unique personality to create stunning shots. No “good vibes only” horses required here—just your horse being themselves.

3. What should I wear for my horse photoshoot?

This one’s easy: wear something that makes you feel amazing but also lets you move. Think flowy dresses, boots, and layers for cooler seasons. Avoid loud patterns or logos—they can compete with your horse’s natural beauty. And, please, don’t forget to consider the mud factor. White shoes and soggy pastures? Bold of you to assume that would end well.

4. What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

Ah, Mother Nature, the ultimate wildcard. If rain, wind, or a surprise heatwave decides to crash your session, we’ll reschedule. No biggie. Your session is about capturing the best possible moments, and if that means waiting out a storm or dodging the muddiest day of the year, so be it. I’m flexible, and I promise we’ll make it work.

Still on the fence? Join the Ride the Sky Herd and get tips, inspiration, and exclusive updates straight to your inbox. Let’s make this happen!

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 celebrating the stories of the amazing horses in her clients’ lives, she invests time and energy into perfecting her equine photography skills and growing her business, hanging with her favorite rescue dog, Nitro, and planning her next big adventure. She also tries to spend some time educating and entertaining her fans and potential clients by blogging and posting on social media about whatever catches her fancy at the moment. 

Betsy is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with the organization Professional Photographers of America (PPA). The CPP designation is held by fewer than 2,000 photographers nationwide and is a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry, and professionalism. Ride the Sky specializes in on-location photography for equines. Ride the Sky also has the option of bringing the studio to the stable. Based in Chattanooga, TN, Ride the Sky Equine Photography works on location in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond.