Shaz & Rocky

There’s something truly special about creating portraits in a place you already know so well. As a Derbyshire equine and dog portrait photographer, I spend a lot of time at Derby College Equestrian Centre covering events—but it’s a lovely change of pace to be there just to slow down and focus on a single partnership. That’s exactly what happened when I finally got to photograph Shaz and her gorgeous black cob, Rocky.

This shoot was a long time coming. Like so many things in life, it was postponed more than once—weather, life, timing—but as I always say, patience pays off. And when it comes to portrait sessions, it’s always worth waiting for the right moment. When that day arrived, it turned out to be absolutely perfect.

Shaz is a brilliant example of something I’m deeply passionate about: giving yourself permission to do something just for you. As we get older, life has a habit of becoming more about responsibilities and less about simply enjoying the moment. A portrait session with your horse offers something rare: a few uninterrupted hours where it’s just the two of you. No rushing, no deadlines—just quality time to reconnect with the horse that brings you peace, pride, and pure happiness.

Rocky, of course, had his own ideas! With the spring grass bursting through, he was absolutely convinced that the shoot was just a glamorous grazing session. We quickly realised that lush green paddocks were not the best backdrop for a food-loving boy, so we got creative. By using the gravel tracks and quieter areas of the yard, we kept him moving and focused, and it really brought out his cheeky personality in the images. Working quickly in each spot helped keep things light and spontaneous, and in the end, Rocky gave us everything we needed—and more.

After the session, Shaz and I worked together to create something truly bespoke. She decided on two smaller, perfectly-sized framed portraits that fit beautifully in her charming Peak District cottage.

That’s the beauty of every portrait experience I offer—your images are never just “one size fits all.” I’ll guide you through the process of selecting, designing, and displaying your artwork in a way that brings you joy every single day. Whether it's a grand statement piece or a thoughtful collection tailored to your home, everything is customised to reflect you, your horse, and your life together.

Being a Derbyshire-based equine and dog portrait photographer, I’m lucky to work with incredible people and their animals right here in the UK—but I also travel worldwide to capture these treasured connections. Whether you’re nearby or far away, I’d love to help you celebrate your bond with beautiful, lasting portraits and custom artwork that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Ready to treat yourself? You deserve it.