My 5 Go-To Tricks for Getting the Perfect ‘Ears Up’ Shot (That Actually Work)

Why "Ears Up" Matters in Horse Photography

If you've ever tried to take a flattering photo of a horse, you know this truth: ears make or break the shot. Perky ears communicate curiosity, presence, and personality, and we all know how they make a picture look 1,000x better.

But getting that look on command? It’s not always easy. Horses are expressive but unpredictable, and what works on one might fail on another. That’s why I’ve built a toolkit of reliable, non-disruptive tricks that work across breeds, settings, and even the crankiest geldings.

Whether you're a fellow photographer or a horse owner just snapping pics, here are the 5 methods I swear by to make those ears pop.

1. The High-Pitched “Rrrr” Trick

This one's my secret weapon. I make a quick, high-pitched sound by rolling my “Rs” like one typically does when speaking Spanish, only you do it for more than just one second. It’s weird. It’s borderline embarrassing. But it works like magic. Sometimes, not only does it bring a horse’s ear forward, but it’ll also get the person in the photo to crack a great smile.

Why it works:
The unfamiliar pitch grabs a horse’s attention without startling them. Most haven’t heard anything like it, and it’ll usually get both ears forward and a curious head tilt.

Pro tip: Practice in the car so you don’t crack up during a shoot.

2. The Squeaky Dog Toy Method

This is a tried-and-true barn favorite. Keep a small squeaky toy in your camera bag. It’s portable, loud, and hilarious. I typically do a mix of squeaking the toy or just tossing it up into the direction I want the horse to look at.

Why it works:
It mimics animal sounds and instantly cuts through background noise, especially in busy barn or show environments. If you toss it, it catches a horse’s attention and makes them instantly look at it. Just be sure to toss it away from the horse so you don’t accidentally chuck it at them.

Bonus: It works well at a distance, helpful for wide shots and sales portraits.

3. Rustling Branches or Leaves Nearby

Old school and beautifully effective. If I’m near any trees or bushes, I’ll grab a branch nearby and rustle it just out of frame.

Why it works:
Horses are wired to notice subtle environmental shifts. It feels natural and low-stress while still piquing their interest.

4. Using a Mirror or Reflective Surface

This is a fun one, and most horses react either with mild suspicion or total vanity. I’ll sometimes bring a small mirror and let them look right at themselves in it.

Why it works:
Most horses aren’t used to seeing themselves, and it often sparks a head raise, forward ears, and extra animation.

Pro tip: This trick is perfect for blackout portraits.

5. Playing Horse Sounds from YouTube

When all else fails (or if we’re shooting for an extended period), I’ll break out my phone and queue up horse snort, whinny, and call compilations. Yes, that’s a thing.

Why it works:
The sounds feel real to the horse, even coming through a phone. They’ll often react instantly, looking for the source with their ears forward, head lifted, in full alert mode.

Pro tip: Lower your volume at first to avoid overreaction.

Bonus Tip: It's Not Just About the Ears

Remember, the goal isn’t just perky ears. It’s expression, presence, and feel. Sometimes, the best moment is the one where the horse is soft-eyed and relaxed. So while these tricks are great for attention, I always build room into sessions for quiet in-between moments too.

Ready to Book Your Own Session?

I bring these tools (and more) to every photography and videography session, whether we’re at the showgrounds or in your backyard pasture. Because capturing your horse’s personality should be fun, effortless, and never stressful.