I recently had a client book in for an equine portrait photoshoot and she requested a date in October because she absolutely adores the Autumn colours, it is her favourite season and it got me thinking; when is the best time of year for your equine photoshoot?
Let’s take a look at what each Season has to offer:
Spring
This has to be one of the most popular times of the year for an equine photoshoot, and it is no surprise why: spring flowers in bloom, fresh shoots on the trees and a warm breeze with the promise of longer days on the horizon. Your horse’s summer coat will be starting to come in and you can be more versatile with your wardrobe as you start digging into your summer outfits.
Summer
Summer is all about hazy golden hours, long grass and your horse’s summer coat shining in the sunshine. The greens are more intense, the colours brighter, days longer and it is easier to keep your horse mud free – there is a lot to love about Summer!
Pull out your favourite long floaty dress and accessorise with big beach hats (bonus if you have a wildflower meadow nearby) for super relaxed, romantic shots.
I recommend having your photoshoot in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh sunlight and the heat of the day.
Autumn
This is probably my favourite season to shoot in. It is constantly changing – end of September to the start of October is when the colours start tinging the edges of the trees and there are still long sun-filled afternoons. As you get deeper into Autumn the colours really start to flourish and get more vibrant.
The light at this time of year has a soft, translucent quality that makes the remaining leaves on the trees twinkle and you can have fun with cosy styling with soft cashmere scarves and tweed capes.
Winter
I think a lot of people dismiss Winter as a time to have an equine shoot because as equestrians our relationship with the colder months isn’t that friendly. Our first thoughts are of endless muddy fields, constantly wet rugs and smashing through frozen water troughs. However, I believe this is one of the most magical times to have a photoshoot. Twinkling frost and muted tones make for a stunning backdrop to your shoot. And just because it is cold, doesn’t mean you can’t wear what you want as proven by Anne Marie on her shoot where she donned her wedding dress in -3 degree weather! See the beautiful images here. It just requires speedy dressing and an even faster photographer to get the shots before frostbite kicks in!
Now, I am going to let you in on a little secret….the BEST time for an equine photoshoot is now. Ultimately, whilst each season offers beautiful opportunities for stunning images, an equine photoshoot is all about celebrating the relationship you have with your horse, so that is always going to be the main focus. As someone who has lived in the UK for 99% of her life, I also know that the weather is never guaranteed, so don’t worry about chasing sunsets or waiting for snow days – the special moments you are having with your horse are happening now and each day that goes by without them being immortalised forever is a moment you can’t get back.
Have your memories captured beautifully – get in touch today to discuss your equine portrait photoshoot.
