Mia, Manny & Ophir

There is something really special about photographing families over the years and watching their stories unfold. I first photographed Mia and her sister back in 2022, so it was such a privilege to see Mia again, a little older now and creating a new chapter with two very special horses in her life. Returning clients are one of the greatest joys of this job — seeing people grow, watching partnerships evolve, and capturing moments that become part of a much bigger story over time.

Very kindly, Mia’s auntie let us use her yard as a location and despite it only being March, spring had already started making an appearance. Fresh greenery was everywhere, hedges had begun waking up after winter and there was that beautiful soft spring light that photographers dream about. Spring really is such an underrated season for portraits; everything feels fresh, gentle and full of life.

We started in the stables, capturing some lovely individual portraits and allowing Manny and Ophir a chance to settle into the shoot. Beginning in a familiar environment is always a lovely way to ease horses in, letting them get used to my camera and my voice before moving around different locations.

Ophir was first outside on the pathway beside the stables and he truly was every bit the sweet boy Mia had described. His warm coat colour worked beautifully against the orange tones of the hedge, and he stood so softly for us throughout.

Manny, meanwhile, came with a little more personality. Known affectionately as "the menace", he likes to keep everyone on their toes and can occasionally decide he has his own ideas. I've actually working with him before so I did know what to expect, and our strategy worked a charm because he was an absolute angel througout!

Every horse is different. Choosing locations carefully is an important part of creating a relaxed experience. We photographed Manny in the school where he had space but also where things stayed safe and stress-free for everyone involved. Every horse has their own character and the session always adapts around that.

To finish the session, we used the driveway where the fresh spring greenery created the most beautiful backdrop. I moved a bench to create a simple little set-up and it ended up being one of my favourite parts of the portrait session. We captured some gorgeous moments with Mia and both boys together — those relaxed, connected portraits that often become firm favourites.

And of course, we couldn't finish without including Tilly, the family dog, for a few photos too.

One of the lovely things about investing in portraits over the years is how much changes without us always realising it. Horses come into our lives, goals evolve and chapters begin and end. Manny and Ophir are both out eventing this season and having fun together, with hopes of qualifying Manny for Badminton Grassroots in 2027. Looking back at photographs years from now won't just remind Mia what they looked like — they'll remind her of exactly who they were during this season of life too.

If you've been thinking about capturing your own horse's story, spring really is one of the most beautiful times to do it. Soft light, fresh greenery, blossom and flowers beginning to appear — it creates the dreamiest backdrop while the weather starts becoming kinder too.