PREPARATION GUIDES

Bellow are guides with recommendations on how to prepare for black background and horse and rider sessions with suggestions to make each session go by smoothly and for the images to come out as best as possible!

blackbackgroundprep.jpg

WHAT'S THE SET UP?

I don’t shoot with any artificial backdrop or lights. The session is done with natural lighting from the entrance to a barn aisle or indoor arena. Everything is edited out using Photoshop. 

RECOMMENDATIONS: Area next to the entrance clear of objects to have the widest opening possible. Sweep or rake the area as clean as possible. I wont be able to decide which place works best until I get there, so keep this in mind if you have multiple options!

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE MY HORSE?

For the best images, the horse should be as clean as possible. I recommend them to be show-ring ready. They will be shot typically in a bridle with the reins removed and a lead rope attached to the bit (which will be edited out in the final image). Simple metal snaffle bits are recommended for the best overall look. Flashes can be on or off, just depending on the look you are going for!

  • For Western horses with curb bits, I recommend a show halter for some poses as well as full tack options. 

  • For Dressage horses in Double Bridles, I also recommend we shoot in some in a halter, or with nothing on (lead rope around the neck).

RECOMMENDATIONS: 

- Entire body brushed and dirt free
- Completely dry
- Green spots removed
- Mane and forelock brushed straight
- Nose, mouth, and eyes wiped clean (bring a rag!)
- Hooves painted
- Bridle wiped down and clean
- Bit shiny and wiped
- Braided (looks stunning when possible!)

I also highly recommend that a second person be there (besides you/the handler)! I sometimes don't have assistants on my trips and having a second person to help crinkle peppermints and get their attention is highly advised to make the shoot go by smoother!

CAN YOU EDIT THAT?

I am fairly skilled when it comes to editing in and out things. For all horses, I will remove any scratches, scars, or knicks on the horse’s face or body. I want to present the horse’s best possible appearance. However, if the horse or tack is dirty, unkempt, or presented poorly I will not do any extensive edits without an additional editing fee. For the best result, follow the recommendations above. 

If you have any extensive edit requests, please let me know during the session!

horseandriderprep.jpg

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?

Depending on the package, if multiple outfits are offered I would greatly encourage it! I’ve had clients wear
everything from a dress, sweater and jeans, or even show clothes. I always recommend wearing whatever you are most comfortable in and what will be easy to handle a horse with. High heels and wedges are discouraged, especially if we will be walking around in dirt or grass. 

I always highly recommend having your hair and makeup done professionally if you are able to, but it’s not required. 

OUTFIT SUGGESTIONS?

I recommend having different options and types. The top three are casual (sweater, blouse, jeans, etc), a more formal look (dress), and riding/show clothes.

RECCOMENDATIONS:

  • Neutral tones and colors match with every horse! Can never go wrong with white or black tops or bottoms, but soft pastel colors are also very pretty.

  • Avoid busy patterns that might not photograph well.

  • Don’t be afraid to layer! A cute jacket can be worn and taken off to create two different looks!

  • Accessorize! A simple necklace or rings can add to the overall look in a huge way.

  • Closed toed shoes are preferred to protect your toes!!

OUTFIT IDEAS:

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE MY HORSE?

For the best images, the horse should be as clean as possible. I recommend them to be show-ring ready. The images will be taken primarily in a bridle, but if you have a nice leather halter and chain we can switch into for some shots it is also recommended. Simple metal snaffle bits are recommended for the best overall look. Bellow is a list of recommendations for getting the best image possible: 

RECOMMENDATIONS: 

- Entire body brushed and dirt free
- Completely dry
- Green spots removed
- Mane and forelock brushed straight
- Nose, mouth, and eyes wiped clean (bring a rag!)
- Hooves painted
- Bridle wiped down and clean
- Bit shiny and wiped
- Braided (looks stunning when possible!)

I also highly recommend that a second person be there (besides you/the handler)! I sometimes don't have assistants on my trips and having a second person to help crinkle peppermints and get their attention is highly advised to make the shoot go by smoother!

CAN YOU EDIT THAT?

I am fairly skilled when it comes to editing in and out things. For all horses, I will remove any scratches, scars, or knicks on the horse’s face or body. I want to present the horse’s best possible appearance. I can also edit any face blemishes or dirt/spit that may occur during the shoot.  However, if the horse or tack is dirty, unkempt, or presented poorly I will not do any extensive edits without an additional editing fee. For the best result, follow the recommendations above. 

If you have any extensive edit requests, please let me know during the session.