Getting your equine photo session off to the right start is so important! Horses can be unpredictable, so prepping ahead of time helps set the stage for a smooth and successful experience. As a Calgary Equine Photographer, I’ve seen everything from mud-coated hooves to perfectly polished tack—and trust me, a little prep goes a long way! These simple tips will help you and your horse show up feeling calm, ready, and looking your absolute best.
1. Clean Your Tack
Let’s start with an often-overlooked detail—your tack! I know how easy it is to forget that saddle polish or skip a quick wipe-down (guilty as charged 🙋♀️), but the camera doesn’t miss a thing. Even small bits of dust or grime can distract from your images.
Taking time to clean your tack helps it photograph beautifully and adds a polished, intentional feel to your session.
2. Clean Your Horse
If possible, bathe your horse the day before your session so their coat has time to dry fully. A clean, dry coat will look glossy and soft on camera. If bathing the day of is easier, no problem—just ensure there’s enough time for drying to avoid noticeable wet spots.
3. Prepare Your Outfits
Plan your outfits ahead of time and give them a once-over for wrinkles or marks. When you’re not scrambling last minute, you’ll feel way more relaxed going into the session.
Need help choosing what to wear? I’ve got you! Every booked session includes a style guide with tips on colour palettes, outfit combos, and accessories to help you feel confident and camera-ready.
4. Work Your Horse
Lunging your horse a few hours before the session can help burn off any extra energy and keep them focused—plus, it avoids saddle sweat marks. Try to stick to your horse’s regular routine as much as possible and avoid keeping them stalled if it’s not part of their norm. A calm horse = a great session!
Let’s Make Magic Together
Calgary equine sessions are now open for booking, and I’d love to help you capture the special connection you share with your horse. With years of experience photographing horses and their people, I know how to create timeless images full of emotion, beauty, and heart.
Ready to book? Let’s chat!
