As an equestrian and photographer, I know how meaningful photos with your horse are. My sessions focus on capturing the connection you share, with poses that feel authentic to your partnership.



A great place to start is with the things you already do together. A gentle scratch, a walk side by side, or a kiss on the nose can all make beautiful portraits. Below, I’m sharing some of my favorite posing ideas to help you picture your own session.



You’ll see examples from my sessions with Mackenzie and her horse, Lilo, and Blakley and her horse, Jackson.


Standing Beside Your Horse


Standing near your horse’s shoulder is a great place to start. You can look at the camera, turn toward your horse, or rest a hand on their neck.

Blonde woman in denim shorts stands beside a brown and white paint horse in a green pasture.
Black and white photo of a young woman in a floral dress standing beside a horse in a fenced pasture.
Looking at Your Horse


You don’t have to look at the camera in every photo. Looking toward your horse and giving them a gentle scratch can feel much more comfortable than holding a pose.

A young girl with long brown hair affectionately nuzzles a brown horse wearing a black halter in a green pasture.
A Kiss on the Nose or Cheek


One of my favorite poses is a gentle kiss on your horse’s nose or cheek. It’s a sweet way to capture the affection you have for them. If your horse is comfortable with it, we can work this into your session. 

Blonde woman in floral dress kissing a chestnut horse by a white fence on a sunny farm.
Black and white photo of a young woman kissing a dark horse on a farm with fencing in the background.
Blonde woman kissing a chestnut paint horse on a sunny farm with green grass and red barn.
Walking Together


Walking can help when you feel a little stiff, or your horse needs to move. A barn aisleway or an open area with even footing gives us room to photograph you leading them naturally. Your job is to watch your horse and where you’re going. I’ll guide you on direction and find the best angle. These photos can add a nice variety alongside your standing portraits.

Two people walk a horse along a misty farm path at sunrise, surrounded by green fields and wooden fences.
Blonde woman in denim shorts riding a bay horse in a green paddock with wooden fence and trees.
Taking a Quiet Moment



Sometimes my favorite photos happen between poses. You might be smoothing your horse’s mane, scratching their favorite spot, or waiting for them to settle. There’s no need to rush through those moments. They’re part of your relationship, and they deserve a place in your gallery too.

Smiling blonde woman petting a chestnut horse with a bridle in a green pasture with white fence.
Including the Details



I also like to include a few close-up photos. Your hand on your horse’s neck, their markings, or a favorite detail of their face can mean just as much as a full portrait. These images help you remember the little things you see every day at the barn.

Close-up of a young blonde girl cheek-to-cheek with a brown horse, showcasing their bond.
Young woman kissing a dark brown horse on the nose while holding its bridle outdoors.
What If My Horse Won’t Stand Still?


If you’re worried your horse will be too excited to stand for photos, you’re not alone. Jackson was full of energy and moving around quite a bit during his sunrise session with Blakley. We still created beautiful portraits together.



Here’s what Blakley shared afterward: “We did a beautiful sunrise shoot and my guy thought he was going to a show because we were getting a bath so early lol. He was extra excited and Isabella was extremely patient and kind. The photos came out so pretty! I definitely recommend Isabella and booking the sunrise photoshoot. Thank you, Isabella!”


Your horse doesn’t need to stand perfectly still the entire time. We can take breaks, adjust our poses, and include movements such as walking. Whether yours is laid back or full of energy, I’ll work with their personality to create beautiful photos of you together.

How to Prepare for Your Equestrian Photo Session


A little preparation can help your session go smoothly. Make sure your horse is groomed and your tack is clean before your session. A leather halter with a lead rope or a bridle works well for portraits. Choose an outfit you feel comfortable moving in, along with secure footwear.



It can also help to bring someone who knows your horse. They can hold your horse while you change outfits or adjust. During photos, they can help get your horse’s attention, encouraging them to look in the right direction with their ears forward. Lastly, before the session, check with your barn owner or manager to confirm that photography is allowed and discuss which areas we can use.

Equestrian Photography in Northeast Florida


Whether you’ve formed a new partnership or have spent years together, I’d love to capture your story. Bella Vedere Photography offers horse and rider portraits in St. Augustine and throughout Northeast Florida, along with couples and family photography. Inquire about a session to start planning yours. I can’t wait to meet you and your horse!


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