After a whirlwind week, I am finally starting to take stock of what was an incredible time exhibiting at my first ever Badminton Horse Trials.
In what has to have been one of the wettest Badmintons in history, nothing could dampen the spirits of the hundreds of thousand visitors who descended to the glorious and historical Gloucestershire estate.
I was absolutely delighted for Ros Canter who secured an impressive win on Lordships Gruffalo, continuing the all-female winning streak at Badminton for the 4th event in a row.
I definitely struggled with ‘FOMO’ not being able to enjoy the event as a spectator, but I was so busy meeting the many wonderful people who visited my stand. I did take the chance to go sit by the lake after the day ended and enjoy the sunset (on the evenings where it wasn’t tipping it down with rain!).
I was fortunate that I managed to avoid the worst of the mud tucked under my stand, however, I made the fatal error to wear white trainers on the Saturday and thought they would survive a quick trip while I had a brief lunch break. Big mistake, huge. They ended up in a bag by the end of the day and I was forced to squelch my way to the Ariat stand and grab myself a new pair of boots!
They say “team work makes the dream work” and this was so true of my Badminton experience. Whilst I am the photographer, social media manager, editing team, accountant and so many other things for Joss Ridley Photography, I couldn’t be where I am today without the help of my wonderful family and friends.
From my parents who helped me set up (and keep me sane), friends who made the effort to come visit my stand or send messages of support, to my incredible grandparents who battled through the mud with me to dismantle my stand – a huge thank you goes to each and everyone one of them.
A special mention has to go to all of my amazing clients who came to see me. It meant so much to me to see so many of you and have a proper catch up. I feel so grateful that this is my ‘job’ – I do quote marks because it feels like too much fun to be work!
My diary is almost full for the year after a flurry of new bookings and I cannot wait for each and every shoot. Keep an eye out on my blog or social media to see my latest images!
