What to Expect From an Equine Portrait Session:
I collected a list of frequently asked questions for those who have never had a portrait session done with their horse. Whether you've already booked a session with me or you're still considering it, I hope this list helps to put your nerves at ease! I am here to help guide you every step of the way - from prepping your horse, to picking your outfit out, to the age old posing question: "What should I do with my hands?!"
What should I do with my horse to get him/her ready?
- Your horse needs to exercise the day of your photoshoot. Make sure they either get ample turnout time or a decent workout before you start to bathe and groom them. Typically, standing in a stall all day will only result in a very restless and fidgety horse, which will not help us that evening. Along with exercise, you will want to make sure they eat their dinner before I arrive. A full belly will help them feel more relaxed.
- Your horse needs a bath. Unless we're shooting in the dead of winter and you don't have a wash stall with hot water, you will want to make sure your horse is bathed! A clean horse sparkles on camera, and portraits are an investment. I want to make sure that your horse looks their very best.
- Prep them like you're going to an important horse show. Clip ears and bridle paths, detangle manes and tails (you can braid if you want to - especially if you plan to wear any show outfits), polish hooves, and wipe their eyes and noses until they're free of dirt and grime.
- I usually recommend leather halters, nice bridles, or pretty rope/western halters. Make sure all leather is clean, as well as your bits. We will carry a rag to wipe mouths and noses, but try your hardest to not let your horse eat anything once their bit is in. The slobber struggle is real and can be difficult to edit/hide. I prefer a neutral colored leadrope unless it is tastefully coordinated with your overall look.
What should I wear? How should I do my hair?
- Since I allow multiple outfit changes, you can get creative. I think it's fun to start with a look that is more "casual," and then switch to something dressier/more formal later in the evening. We can also include a show outfit, or you might have three different dresses that you really want to wear. Whatever you're envisioning - I can bring it to life!
- I have a Pinterest board with tons of seasonal examples and ideas: https://www.pinterest.com/HannahNoelPhotography/what-to-wear/ Please feel free to bring hats, different boots, or any other fun accessories that you may want to throw on for a few photos.
- While it is always fun to get your hair and makeup professionally done for a photoshoot, I know that isn't always an option for everyone. If you're doing your own hair and makeup, I tell everyone to not be afraid to GLAM. IT. UP. You should feel like a superstar during your photoshoot, and because I use only natural light, makeup will not look harsh on my camera. I recommend wearing your hair down, and soft curls/waves look good on everybody!
How long will it take? What time will it be?
- My sessions typically take around two hours if you have an outfit change, and definitely if you have more than one more horse. However, there is never a time limit, because horses can't be rushed! I also like to capture different types of lighting as the sun sets, which is another reason we will take our time and move around a lot.
- I only schedule my sessions for first thing in the morning or during the evening "golden hour." Trying to take photos during the middle of the day will only result in harsh, unflattering lighting that will take away from the beauty of your long awaited photos. Plus, this ensures plenty of time to get both you and your horse ready. I promise that the long day will be worth it in the end!
Most importantly - let's have fun!!
