How to choose and equestrian photographer

🐴 How to Choose the Right Photographer for Your Equestrian Senior Portraits

This is a very niche article for senior, grad girls and guys who want their horse in the spotlight, too

If you're a senior who loves horses, then you already know—this bond is different. Your horse isn't just a pet or a hobby. They're part of your heart, part of your story, and part of your growing up. So when it’s time to take your senior portraits, you don’t want just any photographer. You want someone who can celebrate that connection—not just capture a pretty picture.

As someone who photographs both high school seniors and has experience with equestrian sessions, I’ve learned what truly matters in planning a shoot like this. Whether you’ve had your horse since you were little or you just found your heart horse a year ago, your session should reflect the journey you’ve taken together.

Here’s a guide to help you find the right photographer who understands how meaningful this is—for both you and your horse.

1. KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE TO WORK WITH Location-Wise

Start by getting a feel for what’s possible near your home or barn. Ask:

  • Are there beautiful open areas nearby that allow horses?

  • Does your barn have great scenery or open fields?

  • Are there horse-friendly parks or trails worth exploring?

If you’re in King or Snohomish County, Washington, some of my favorite natural spots for equestrian portraits include:

  • Bridle Trails State Park

  • Farrel-McWhirter Park

  • Saint Edward State Park

  • Lord Hill Regional Park

  • Paradise Valley Conservation Area

  • Pilchuck Tree Farm

  • Whitehorse Trail near Darrington if you’re up for a drive.

And when it comes to charming, rural neighborhoods that often have beautiful private horse properties, look into:

Woodinville, Monroe, Snohomish, Stanwood, Arlington, Granite Falls, and specific communities like Lord Hill, Machias, Woods Creek, Lake Goodwin, Ben Howard, Echo Falls, Pilchuck Creek, and Union Hill.

If you’re unsure about locations, a good photographer should be willing to scout or provide some ideas ahead of time.

2. Start Your Search in the Right Places

The truth is, the horse world is pretty small—and the list of photographers who really know how to work with both horses and people is even smaller. Start by searching:

  • “Equestrian senior photographer”

  • “Senior portraits with horse” + your city or state

Look through Instagram, Pinterest, or Google—then dig deeper. Just because a photo looks pretty in your feed doesn’t mean that the photographer knows how to pose people with horses or make seniors feel confident in front of the camera.

💡 Pro Tip: Look for photographers who feature multiple sessions with horses—not just one random shoot. Consistency matters.

3. Know What Qualities to Look For

🎓 Experience with Seniors

  • Do their senior portraits feel natural and confident?

  • Do they show variety in style, posing, and expression?

  • Do their photos capture who the person is, not just how they look?

🐎 Experience with Horses

  • Do they seem comfortable and calm around horses?

  • Can they read a horse’s body language (ears, tension, energy)?

  • Are they aware of safety, patience, and how to work in unpredictable environments?

💡 Pro Tip: Horses should have ears forward in most images—this usually means the photographer has good timing, treats, or a gentle presence that puts the horse at ease.

4. Ask the Right Questions

When you reach out, don’t be shy. Ask important questions like:

  • “Have you photographed seniors with horses before?”

    • They should be able to give a confident yes and share stories.

  • “Can you travel to my barn or a special location?”

    • This is key because understanding your horse’s comfort level is the most important piece.

  • “How do you help keep horses relaxed during the session?”

    • They should have an awareness of slow and patient movements and the introduction of equipment around the horse. Having a calm and soft-spoken personality is a must.

  • “What do you recommend I do to prep my horse ahead of time?”

    • They should be able to chat through, bathing, grooming, and trimming stray or unslightly long hair growth, as well as provide some key reminders like cleaning tack, oiling leathers, and making sure your bridals and rope don’t look too new or too old. If and when the location is known, they should advise you to take your horse there a few times, get comfortable.

And pay attention to the questions they ask you. A great photographer will want to know:

  • Your horse’s temperament

  • Your comfort level as a rider and handler

  • Rules around your barn or paddock

  • Whether your horse spooks at gear, reflectors, or flashes

💡 Pro Tip: If possible, meet the photographer in person first. Let them meet your horse. You’ll know quickly if the vibe is right.

5. Study Their Portfolio

Don’t just scroll—study. Look for:

  • Natural posing of both you and your horse (not stiff or awkward)

  • Good lighting and focus on both faces (yes, your horse’s expression matters!)

  • Variety: wide scenic shots, intimate close-ups, fun candid moments

  • Safety-conscious composition: halters edited out, calm energy, respectful handling

The best photos are the ones that show how much you feel, not just how you look.

6. A Few Extras That Matter

  • Prints + Albums – This story deserves a place in your home. A wall portrait or keepsake album can bring back these memories long after graduation.

  • Insurance – Not glamorous, but important when working with large animals on private property.

  • Support Team – Will they bring an assistant or are they comfortable working with a parent, trainer, or barn friend to help manage your horse?

  • Outfit & Timing Help – Do they guide you on what to wear and when to shoot for the best light?

7. Red Flags to Watch Out For

  • 🚩 They only shoot horse shows—not portraits

  • 🚩 They are great with the horse portraits, but not the senior grad

  • 🚩 Their horse images look forced, stiff, or emotionless

  • 🚩 They don’t ask about your horse’s personality or your comfort level, or they ask too few questions to prepare.

  • 🚩 They rush through sessions or don’t seem confident around animals

8. Final Thoughts

Equestrian senior portraits aren’t just about showing off your horse—they’re about honoring a bond that helped shape who you are. This isn’t just a milestone for you—it’s one you and your horse have reached together.

Maybe they’ve been with you through heartbreaks and ribbon wins. Maybe they’ve taught you patience, grit, or how to show up when life gets tough. That deserves to be remembered.

Your senior portraits should feel authentic, brave, and full of heart—just like the way you love your horse.

If you’re ready to plan your equestrian session, I’d love to be the one who gets to tell that story. I’m not afraid to get dusty, step in mud, or chase golden light across a pasture. Let’s make something meaningful, together.

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