A white horse wearing a bridle stands in front of pink cherry blossoms while being held by someone in a white shirt.
Woman in red dress and cowboy hat poses with a dark brown horse at sunset against a golden sky.
Beautiful brown horse and companion stand together on grassy hill with autumn foliage in background.
A brown horse and person stand behind a wooden fence gate while snow falls in a winter setting.

When planning your equine portrait session, one of the most important factors to consider is the season. The time of year plays a significant role in the final look and feel of your images, from the colors and lighting to the overall atmosphere.


Each season offers a unique aesthetic, and choosing the right one ensures that your portraits align with your vision. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each season to help you decide the perfect time for your equine photoshoot.

A white horse stands in a lush garden setting surrounded by autumn foliage and flowering plants on a sunny day.
Bay horse standing near someone seated on a log in a forest with autumn foliage and natural lighting.
Two horses stand beside a rustic wooden fence in a sunny countryside pasture.
A beautiful chestnut horse wearing a bridle stands with its handler outdoors among trees on a path.
A chestnut pony being led down a country lane beside spring hedgerows on a cloudy afternoon.
A serene forest path shows a horse and person walking together between lush green foliage on a sunny day.

Spring: Fresh Blooms and Soft Light

Pros:

  • Lush, green pastures and blooming flowers create a vibrant and fresh backdrop.
  • Soft, diffused lighting on overcast days can enhance the natural beauty of both horse and rider.
  • Horses are beginning to lose their winter coats, revealing sleek, shiny summer coats.

Cons:

  • The unpredictable weather can be a challenge, with rain showers potentially disrupting sessions.
  • Some horses may still be in the process of malting, which can create an uneven coat appearance.
  • Muddy conditions from spring rains may require extra grooming and location considerations.


A serene countryside scene with two horses and their handler standing in a golden wheat field at sunset.
A brown horse stands with its handler under a large oak tree in a sunlit pasture with fenced fields in the background.
A chestnut horse and someone wearing a yellow floral dress stand together in a wildflower-filled meadow on a summer day.
A brown horse and person in a wide-brimmed hat and floral top stand together in a golden field at sunset.
A white horse stands in a sunlit meadow at golden hour while being gently petted.
A figure in a white dress lays across a black and white horse in a sunlit summer meadow decorated with wildflowers.
A chestnut horse leans against a wooden gate in a lush garden setting while being groomed.

Summer: Golden Light and Warm Tones

Pros:

  • Long daylight hours provide flexibility in scheduling your session during golden hour for dreamy, warm images.
  • Horses typically have their sleekest coats, creating a polished and elegant look.
  • Outdoor locations are at their peak beauty, with full, lush fields and clear skies.

Cons:

  • The heat can be a concern for both horses and riders, making early morning or late evening sessions ideal.
  • Flies and other insects can be a nuisance and may require extra preparation to keep horses comfortable.
  • Bright midday sun can create harsh shadows, making it essential to time the session carefully.


A beautiful chestnut horse stands beneath a large oak tree on an autumn day while someone tends to it.
A scenic autumn path with a grey speckled horse and black dog standing together on a tree-lined trail.
A white horse stands next to someone sitting on a moss-covered log in a wooded area.
A beautiful brown horse wearing a bridle stands against a golden autumn background with autumn-themed accessories.
A brown horse nuzzles affectionately with a girl in a cozy plaid scarf during golden hour sunset.
Large brown and white draft horse standing in green field with autumn foliage in background.
A beautiful dun horse and its companion stand together in a sunlit autumn meadow with golden foliage in the background.

Autumn: Rich Colors and Crisp Air

Pros:

  • The stunning fall foliage provides a warm and dramatic backdrop, making for breathtaking portraits.
  • Cooler temperatures keep horses and riders comfortable during the session.
  • The golden autumn light flatters both horses and humans, creating a rich, inviting feel.

Cons:

  • The days become shorter, limiting the available daylight for sessions.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, with early frosts or rainy days disrupting plans.
  • Some horses start growing their winter coats, which may not match the sleek look of summer.


A cheerful person in a fur coat stands between two horses while smiling outdoors.
A majestic white horse and rider walking along a scenic hillside during golden hour.
A miniature pony with flowing blonde mane poses alongside a dachshund companion in a rustic barn setting.
A person walking on a misty path with a horse and dog, captured in black and white photography.
A beautiful white horse stands in an autumn field with rusty-colored foliage and fallen logs in the background.
A beautiful gray horse stands on frosty ground with its handler wearing a green sweater and black pants.
A beautiful chestnut horse stands with companion on a frosty morning in the woods with golden sunlight filtering through trees.

Winter: A Magical and Serene Atmosphere

Pros:

  • Snow/frost covered landscapes create a stunning, ethereal aesthetic for truly unique equine portraits.
  • The soft, diffused winter light is flattering and eliminates harsh shadows.
  • Horses with fuzzy winter coats or clipped coats can each create distinct yet striking looks.

Cons:

  • Cold temperatures can make sessions a challenge for both horses and riders.
  • Weather unpredictability, including snowstorms and icy conditions, can lead to scheduling challenges.
  • Limited natural color in the landscape may make sessions feel more muted unless paired with creative styling and locations.


Figure in black cloak walks with white horse across rugged moorland landscape during golden sunset light.

Choosing the Right Season for You


Your choice of season should reflect the overall mood and aesthetic you desire for your equine portraits.


If you love soft, airy pastels, spring may be your best choice. If you’re drawn to rich, warm tones, autumn offers breathtaking color. Those who prefer a timeless, classic feel may opt for summer’s golden light, while winter lovers can embrace the stark, elegant beauty of frost covered fields and beautiful sunrises.


No matter the season, thoughtful preparation and styling will ensure stunning results. Considering your personal preferences, your horse’s coat, and the unique environmental elements of each season will help create images that truly capture the essence of your equine bond.


If these images have inspired you, use the option below to get in touch and book your portrait session.

Call me on 07958101755 to book your shoot, or fill out the enquiry form below.

A pinto horse adorned with flowers stands in a golden summer meadow with someone in a blue dress at sunset.

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