My Top 5 Poses for Horse & Rider Portraits
Posing is one of the biggest parts of your portrait session. But it is so easy to blank and forget all the cute poses you envisioned on Pinterest and Instagram, whether you're a client or a photographer. Here are my favourite go-to poses that I have used over the years. Almost all of my clients end up doing these in their session.
Natalie & Coco - 2024
Over the Fence
This horse photography pose is one I love because the fence naturally creates a "frame" for the horse and rider. By positioning both the horse and rider behind the fence, with the horse’s head, reins, and the rider’s hand in front of it. This dynamic pose allows for the capture of multiple expressions from the pair. It’s a perfect example of how I use framing to tell a story in portrait photography,
Emma & Aurora - 2024
Classic Full-Body
This horse photography pose is a staple in every session I do. It’s timeless and can be captured both as a close-up or a wider shot, perfect for showcasing the location of the session. This pose beautifully captures the connection between the horse and rider, highlighting how they complement one another. Whether you want a more detailed close-up or an expansive shot that includes the surroundings, this pose works to create a stunning visual of the bond between horse and rider.
Sophia & Bodi - 2022
Against the Fence
This pose is similar to the "over the fence" shot but with a cute twist. Both the horse and rider are positioned on the same side of the fence. The rider leans against the fence, either with their back or shoulder, while the horse faces them. There are countless ways this pose can be captured, whether it's a kiss on the nose, a hug, or the precious gaze between rider and horse. This equine photography pose emphasizes the deep connection and affection shared between horse and rider, and it's perfect for capturing those special moments of love.
Deliah & Belle - 2024
The Kiss on the Nose
The kiss on the nose is my ultimate favorite pose, and I’ll admit I have clients do it more than once in every session because it’s simply too precious. This pose can be captured in a few ways: the horse and rider facing one another with a kiss on the nose or forehead, or with their heads next to each other as the rider turns to kiss the horse's nose or cheek. This pose beautifully showcases the deep connection between horse and rider, with many horses even closing their eyes during the moment, adding to the emotional beauty of the shot. It’s a perfect example of how equine photography can capture the love and trust shared between the two.
Natalie & Elsa - 2024
Classic Portrait
The classic portrait is perfect for capturing the beauty and connection of both horse and rider. It’s a close-up variation of the full-body shot, where the rider stands directly next to the horse’s head. This can be done as a front-facing shot or in a way that also showcases the horse's body, highlighting the elegance of both the horse and rider. This shot beautifully brings out the tiny details that emphasize the bond between the two.