A Thoroughbred with a Heart of Gold...
Every horse has their own story, and one of my favourite things about being an equine photographer is capturing the wonderful relationships they share with their people.
My July portrait session with Rosie and her gorgeous loaned thoroughbred, Monty, was an absolute joy from beginning to end. Monty is a former racehorse, who belongs to the yard own. Rosie has loaned him for the past 4 years, these days he's very much Rosie's much-loved boy. And what an absolute superstar he was in front of the camera. Ears forward, wonderfully relaxed and standing like an angel throughout the entire session. I genuinely couldn't have asked for a better model.
We were photographing at the beautiful Derbyshire yard where Monty lives, which also happens to be a wedding venue, (Twichell's Tipi) complete with the most gorgeous tipis.
I've photographed horses in all sorts of wonderful locations over the years, but I can safely say this was my first time photographing one inside a tipi.
Another one ticked off the photography bucket list!
Beautiful Derbyshire Views, Brick Stables and a Rather Unusual Location...
One of the things I particularly loved about Rosie's portrait session was the variety of beautiful locations we had to explore. From the traditional brick stables and sweeping private driveway to the rolling views across the Derbyshire countryside, there were so many lovely opportunities to create something special.
Of course, we couldn't resist making the most of the wedding tipi, which provided a wonderfully unusual backdrop for some of Rosie's photographs with Monty. I wouldn't normally choose something like this, but after being informed he wandered in their on his own accord just hour earlier, I couldn't resist using this unusual location.
After such a hot, dry summer, much of the surrounding countryside had turned golden, but we were lucky enough to find a little stream at the bottom of the property where the greenery offered a beautiful contrast.
We also included Rosie's mum and dad, Rebecca and Cain, for a few family portraits around the yard. I always love when families get involved, especially when we're somewhere that already plays such a big part in their lives.
We couldn't complete the shoot without getting some in Rosie's gogrgous prom dress, too. An opportunity to be photographed with your horse in your prom dress is every teenagers dream - and after the big day is the best place to do it (just in case it gets slobbered or stood on!)
Throughout it all, Monty remained an absolute gentleman, and we created a gorgeous collection of portraits celebrating Rosie and her handsome boy.
More Than Just Beautiful Photographs...
One of the loveliest things about photographing horses is being able to capture a different side of the partnerships we usually see out competing. The quiet moments, the affection and all those little interactions that make the relationship between horse and owner so special.
And I think Rosie summed this up beautifully when she shared her thoughts after seeing her finished photographs:
"It is so special having such beautiful photos with my horse, they really represent us as a partnership and are unlike competition photos.
Imogen was friendly and professional from the start. From the initial consultation calls to the actual photoshoot we were included in every step and enjoyed the experience. Imogen went through location and outfit choices to ensure she could get the most out of our session - including some family photos as well as my individual photos.
At the private viewing, Imogen was thorough in ensuring I was framing the right photo as well as showing us all of my photos in a slideshow. Each photo was beautifully produced and such high quality, I love all of them so much! It is so special having such beautiful photos with my horse.
I would definitely have another photoshoot with Imogen again and will reccomend her."
For me, that's exactly what a portrait experience should be. Something enjoyable and personal from the very beginning, with beautiful artwork at the end that you'll be proud to have in your home for years to come.
Looking back at Rosie and Monty's photographs, I love that we've captured this chapter of their story together. A beautiful summer afternoon, a truly lovely family and one very handsome thoroughbred who couldn't have been more perfect.
If you'd love to celebrate the partnership you share with your own horse, I'd be delighted to help you create something beautiful together.
Ready to go for it and get gorgeous images like this for yourself?
Call me on 0795810155, or use the button below to fill in the enquiry form and lets start planning your dream portrait session.
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