I knew this photoshoot was going to be a bit special when the directions to Maddie’s family home included ‘look for the windmill’. As the SatNav took me along winding roads lined with thatched cottages, I saw the Wilton Windmill standing on top of the Wiltshire hills, surrounded by expansive fields of yellow rapeseed in full bloom. Right next door was where I met Maddie and her lovely family, including cocker spaniel Merlin and horses Barney and Charlie. Their home was the perfect location, with so many opportunities for amazing images.
Barney, the 15.2hh bay eventer (described by Maddie as an oversized, cuddly Connemara!) and Maddie were stunning models – I was so excited to create beautiful memories for Maddie and her family to love and cherish forever.
Charlie, the gorgeous grey with dapples to die for, is Maddie’s brother’s horse. A 16.2hh Irish Sports horse, he had such a presence. At only 5yrs old he did so well to behave and we got some lovely images before he decided it was time for his tea and it was quite enough posing for the evening!
Maddie’s family home had loads of unique features, including a viewing circle in the hedge, quaint metal gates and an apple tree from 1848! We got permission from Mum and Dad before we stepped onto the lovely manicured garden and were joined by all of the family’s animals, including chickens, the cat and the dog! I even walked home with a carton of fresh eggs after the shoot courtesy of the chickens!
Dad, Nick asked if he could have a quick photo with Maddie, which of course I said yes to! In this busy world it is rare we get to spend quality time with our family and have the moment captured.
When we got to the rapeseed field, that is when Barney really put on his best poses. As the sun set over the hills, the soft evening light gave a pretty pink glow as Maddie and Barney had quiet moments together that all I had to do was click and capture the magic.
“From the first communication, Joss was friendly and approachable. Her pre-shoot telephone consultation was extremely thorough. On the shoot day she was relaxed and fun and made sure Maddie and the horses were happy and comfortable at all times. The images are stunning and made me cry (happy) tears and I would wholeheartedly recommend Joss to capture precious relationships” – Mia Loweth
