Bronwyn & Mr Charles

Earlier this month, I finally brought to life an idea I’ve had tucked away for a long time—an equine portrait session on the breathtaking Formby Beach.

With its soft, neutral palette and gentle pastel tones, the beach creates the most perfect natural backdrop. There’s something so beautifully minimal about it; nothing distracts, and all of the focus falls exactly where it should—on the connection between horse and rider.

Formby has that extra bit of magic too. Just beyond the shoreline, the dunes rise with their soft grasses, adding texture, movement, and an almost ethereal feel to the setting.

A huge thank you has to go to Bronwyn, who very kindly offered to model for this session—and who was incredibly brave in the cold March air!

Of course, no shoot like this happens without a little behind-the-scenes chaos. My husband, Jordan, was recruited for the day and very much earned his keep, trekking Bronwyn’s entire wardrobe (packed into a suitcase!) a good half mile across the beach. Not the most glamorous job, but an essential one nonetheless.

And then there was Mr Charles, who was nothing short of perfect. Calm, willing, and completely unbothered by the new surroundings, he made the whole experience feel effortless. After we’d finished the portraits on foot, Bronwyn was keen for some ridden images, so they took off for a beautiful, windswept gallop along the shoreline—one of those moments that just feels as incredible as it looks.

Sessions like this are not only creatively fulfilling, but they’re also incredibly valuable for discovering new locations for future clients who commission me year after year. Finding somewhere that offers both visual impact and a unique experience is always something I’m looking for—and Formby certainly delivered.

We rounded off the day in the best possible way: watching the sunset over Crosby Beach, fish and chips in hand, reflecting on a session that felt just as special as I’d imagined.

Considering a Beach Portrait Session?

If you’ve ever thought about commissioning an equine portrait session somewhere a little different, the beach offers something truly special. The soft, muted tones create timeless, elegant imagery, while the open space brings a sense of freedom and movement that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

Whether it’s the quiet connection moments or the exhilaration of a gallop along the shoreline, a beach setting allows for a beautifully varied and deeply personal collection of artwork—something truly unique to you and your horse.