Planning senior pictures with your horse. So, you decided to bring your horse to your senior session. Be sure to discuss with your photographer how much you want to include your horse. I generally find seniors wish to include them in 10-30% of their session images. We typically use one outfit for the photos with your horse but occasionally spread it across two.
Now that you have narrowed down how much of your session you want to spend with your horse, let’s think about how you want to pose. Most senior photographers also do not specialize in equestrian photography, so be sure to share these quick ideas with them to get their creativity flowing.
Top Three Poses to Do with Your Horse at Your Senior Session
- The classic, looking-at-the-camera portrait
- The walking/action shot
- Some interaction with your horse/snuggles/a nose kiss
Now that you have an overview let’s break them down with examples photos of senior pictures of your horse from Sydney’s senior session.
1. The Classic, Looking at the Camera Portrait
You cannot go wrong with a classic portrait. Even though they are not always exciting, they are timeless and will probably be your mom’s favorite images from your senior session. To take a classic portrait with your horse, you want you and your horse to face the camera. You should stand near their eye/ear area. This will ensure your photographer gets a crisp focus on both you and your horse.
Variations within this pose:
- Both your horse and yourself square to the camera
- Your horse is square to the camera, and you are facing your horse, looking over your shoulder toward the camera
- Your horse standing at a 45-degree angle, with you either facing your horse’s eye or shoulder, looking back over your shoulder towards the camera
- Your horse standing parallel to the photographer, you standing either in front of their face or in front of their neck facing the camera
2. The Walking with Your Horse Photo
Sometimes, horses get a little antsy when they have to stand too long for a photoshoot. Not to worry. This is the perfect time to integrate some walking. You can walk towards the camera, away from the camera, or across the path in front of your photographer. There are many options, and it’s a win-win if your horse needs a moment to regroup.
3. The Interaction Photo
These are some of the most fun and sweet photos. There is no wrong way to do this pose as long as both you and your horse look and feel comfortable. Think about how you would snuggle with your horse, give them a pat on the neck, or brush their mane off to the side. Incorporate these movements between more formal posing. As a bonus, your horse will likely love the attention and praise during the session.
Want to book your senior session with a photographer specializing in equestrian photography? I am your gal! You can find more about senior packages and what to expect here.
For some more equestrian photography inspiration, you may also enjoy:
