Abi & Pretzel

There’s something really special about stepping away from familiar surroundings and exploring new places with your horse. For Abi and this gorgeous boy, Pretzel, we headed out to Cannock Chase for a portrait session that felt a little different from the usual arena or yard environment — full of open space, natural beauty and the kind of scenery that makes you slow down and take it all in.

From woodland light filtering through the trees to the iconic stepping stones, it’s a location that always feels full of life and movement, especially with families and walkers enjoying the space too (thanks to half term!). That energy actually added something really lovely to the session — a sense of real life unfolding around us.

Pretzel was an absolute star throughout the session. Even with plenty of activity around the stepping stones — from children playing to walkers passing by — he stayed relaxed, curious and completely unfazed.

In fact, he seemed to quite enjoy the attention.

One of the highlights of the session was watching him happily splashing in the water, completely in his element. It’s moments like these that show just how much personality comes through when we take the time to slow down and just be with our horses. It was also lovely to include his owner Sarah in a few of the images, too.

One of the things I’ve really loved developing over the years is the ability to create portrait sessions in a variety of locations across the Midlands and beyond — from the Peak District and ancient woodlands to open countryside and even coastal settings.

This means your session doesn’t have to take place at your yard if that doesn’t feel right for you. Many of my clients prefer somewhere that feels more relaxed, more private, or simply more visually beautiful for the artwork we create together.

Whether it’s a place that already holds meaning, or somewhere chosen purely for its atmosphere and light, the location becomes part of the story — helping to create portraits that feel timeless, natural and completely personal to you and your horse.

If you’ve ever imagined having portraits of your horse that feel like you’ve stepped into a magazine moment together — calm, effortless and beautifully styled by nature itself — I’d love to help you create that experience.

Every session is designed around you, your horse, and the kind of artwork you want to bring into your home for years to come.