Preparing your horse for your White Background Portrait Session at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show is easy and we are here to help capture their elegance and strength at their best. In order to make the most of this opportunity, we’ve gathered five essential tips to ensure your horse looks their absolute finest for their session. These tips will help you achieve picture-perfect results you’ll cherish for years to come. Let’s dive in!
- Free of Sweat and Ruffled Hair
One important step in preparing your horse for a portrait session is ensuring they’re completely dry before heading over. Damp spots, especially under the belly, can appear darker under the portrait lights and take away from the polished look you’re going for. Be sure to check for any sweat marks or ruffled hair from saddles or girths, and give those areas a good wipe down and brush so the hair lays flat. Taking the time to smooth out any uneven spots will ensure your horse’s coat looks sleek and flawless in every shot!
- Your Horse’s Ears, Eyes, and Nose Are Clean
It’s important to pay attention to the small details—like your horse’s ears, eyes, and nose. These areas can easily accumulate dust, dirt, or grime, which can be distracting in photos. Before the session, take a moment to gently wipe down these spots to remove any dirt or buildup. Cleaning around the eyes, nose, and ears will ensure your horse looks fresh and vibrant, helping them shine in every shot! This simple step can make a big difference in the final portrait.
- Apply Shine Spray—Enhance Your Horse’s Glow Without Greasy Spots
Shine spray can add that perfect finishing touch to your horse’s look, but it’s important to use it sparingly. A light mist from a distance will enhance your horse’s natural shine without leaving greasy spots. Be sure to pay extra attention around the nose and eyes—just a tab bit extra in these areas can help them pop in the photos. However, avoid heavy applications of products like baby oil or Vaseline, as we want your horse to look naturally polished, not overly greased. A subtle glow will make your horse look stunning without overdoing it!
- Choose a Clean, Simple Bridle or Opt for a Natural Look
When it comes to portrait sessions, less is often more when showcasing your horse’s beauty. A simple bridle works best for portraits, as it won’t distract from your horse’s face. Try to avoid using curb bits, elevators, or anything extra that may cover up your horse’s natural features. If you prefer a more natural look, you can opt for the “naked” style. Don’t worry—your horse won’t be photographed loose! We use a thin rope halter that is easily edited out afterward, allowing your horse’s stunning profile to be the star of the photo.
- No Need to Worry About Perfect Hooves
At our Portraits for Charity Event, the focus is on capturing your horse’s beauty, especially their face, so there’s no need to stress over perfectly polished hooves. We typically keep the feet out of the portraits since the ground at shows isn’t always ideal, and most clients prefer close-up shots. However, we photograph your horse’s legs, so be sure they’re clean and dirt-free from the show ring.
In conclusion, with these five tips in mind, your portrait session will be smooth and you can ensure your horse looks their absolute best. Book your session to have beautiful, lasting memories of your horse at their finest. We can’t wait to take stunning portraits of your horse!
