Maren English with Stirrups and Styles Photography
Chattanooga, North GA pet photographer traveling wherever you are!
A horse and rider photoshoot should feel exciting, not stressful. The most common issues I come across during a photoshoot aren't about talent, or how "photogenic" someone is. They typically come down to a few simple prep mistakes that are very easy to avoid!
Here are some of the most common mistakes riders make before a photoshoot and how to avoid them so your session feels calm, confident, and actually fun!
1. Overworking your horse beforehand
A common misconception is that your horse needs to be drilled or ridden hard before their photoshoot so that they behave perfectly. In reality an overworked horse is going to loose interest faster because their body and brain are tired! You'll end up with a dull, irritated, and mentally checked out horse.
How to avoid: Instead! Give your horse plenty of turnout, grazing time, and plan to lightly lunge before their photoshoot using lots of positive reinforcement to keep them curious and excited for the "next thing." A light hack, hand walking, or light groundwork earlier in the day is fantastic! I would always rather photograph a horse who is alert, curious, and comfortable than one that is exhausted and flat.
2. Leaving the grooming until the last minute
Rushing to groom right before I arrive almost always adds stress for both horse and rider. It makes it harder to fix small details like dust, and flyaways.
How to avoid: Start grooming earlier than you think you need. Bathe(if appropriate), and give yourself time to do the finished touches. Clean legs, brushed man, and wiped noses go a long way in photos! Plan to spend a large portion of the day with your horse. Bring your change of clothes to the barn with you.
3. Wearing something uncomfortable or untested.
If you're overly adjusting your helmet, tugging at your shirt, or worried about how your boots feel, it will show in your body language.
How to avoid: Wear something you've already worn and feel confident in. If you get a new pair of tall boots, spend a little time breaking them in. If you buy a new shirt or breaches wear them ahead of time and make sure they fit you well. If you feel good, you'll look natural and confident without trying!
4. Expecting your horse to be perfect
Horses are living beings, not statues or robots. Expecting ears-forward perfection the entire time often leads to frustration.
How to avoid: Come into the session and time with flexibility, and trust! I build time into your session to allow your horse to look around, take breaks, and be themselves. Some of the BEST photos come from the quiet, in-between moments. An assistant is included in your session and it's your job to trust us to make sure you and your horse look their best!
5. Not trusting the process
Lots of people feel nervous before their photoshoot because they don't know how to pose, or worry about how they'll look on camera. This can lead to stiffness or overthinking.
How to avoid: You don't need to know how to pose. That's my job! I'll guide you, make adjustments, and talk you through everything as we go! Your only job is to breathe, connect with your horse, and show up as you are!
6. Skipping the small details
A poor halter bit, wrinkled or dirty saddle pads, dirty tall boots, or even an unbrushed tail can be distracting.
How to avoid: Before the shoot take 5-10 minutes to step back and look at the full picture. Ask yourself, "Do I want this in my pictures?" Straighten tack wipe boots, and smooth out clothing. These small actions can make a BIG difference.
7. Bringing stress to the situation
If you feel stressed or rushed, your horse is going to feel that too!
How to avoid: Give yourself as much time as you can! Arrive early, and ask for help! Photoshoots are suppose to be positive, not another thing to power through.
Final thoughts
A successful horse and rider shoot happens when everyone can work together. It isn't about perfection it's about preparation trust, and connection. When you avoid these common mistakes and come in with the right mindset, the result is imagery that feels authentic, emotional and true to the relationship you have with your horse!
If you're unsure on how to prepare, I'm always happy to help guide you beforehand so your session goes as smoothly as possible!
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