horse photography locations
In horse photography, the choice of location plays a crucial role in the success of a photo shoot. The right environment can have a significant impact on the result of the shots and create a harmonious backdrop that highlights the connection between horse and human. But what influence does the location have exactly and why is a suitable location so important in horse photography? I would like to tell you a little about that here. Because the better prepared you are for your shoot, the easier the rest of the shoot and post-production process will be.
Careful selection of the location is therefore an important point that horse photographers should always keep in mind. It is not just the effect and appearance of the location that is important. The main goal should be to create an environment in which both humans and animals feel comfortable. This is the only way you can capture the connection between the two in the best possible and most relaxed way.
The choice of location not only influences the aesthetic quality of the images, but also plays an essential role in the image composition. The right backdrop can tell the story behind each image and convey an emotional connection between the horse and its owner. When photographing horses, it is important that the location matches the individual characteristics of the animal and its behavior. For example, if a horse is extremely greedy, it will be difficult to choose a lush meadow as a location. In the long run, constantly preventing the horse from eating would frustrate it to the point that it no longer enjoys the shoot. To avoid this, justifiably occurring, frustration of the horse, a riding arena, sand paddock or even a street are ideal alternative locations. A more nervous horse that is less focused on eating can, for example, benefit from a wide open meadow that is fenced in as best as possible. The safety of humans and animals is the top priority. Thanks to the secure fence, this location also offers the owner a great deal of security, meaning they can go through the shoot more relaxed without having to worry that their horse might run away. So when choosing a location, it doesn't always have to be spectacular, like a shoot on the beach. The most inconspicuous locations often offer great conditions for horse photography.
Another of the key considerations when choosing a location is the size of the area. Especially when working with long focal lengths such as 200-300mm, sufficient space for image composition is crucial. Long focal lengths make it possible to focus on the subject and blur background details, which is aesthetically pleasing, especially in horse photography. In addition, the proportions of the horse are portrayed lifelike and not distorted. A spacious location therefore gives the photographer the freedom to explore different perspectives and create dynamic compositions.
Finally, the incidence of light at the shooting location must also be taken into account. Would you like to capture a beautiful bokeh, or would you rather photograph with the light? Is your image style more characterized by backlit shots? You should take all of this into account when choosing a location for horse photography. Because nothing is more disappointing than arriving at a location and only realizing too late that the sun, and the intended backlight, is setting behind the houses, and not, as you had hoped, with a view of the wide meadows and trees in the opposite direction. Therefore, always find out exactly (for example with the help of apps) where the sun and the light are falling before you choose a location for the shoot.
" Know your Location "
The location is therefore an essential part of your shoot. It is therefore important to find out about the local conditions with the customer before the shoot and to look for a suitable location together with the customer so that nothing goes wrong on the day of the shoot or unnecessary time is lost looking for a beautiful and suitable location for your photo shoot. From the size of the location to the natural lighting to the integration into the image composition, there are many factors that need to be taken into account. Careful planning and precise coordination between photographer, horse and location are crucial to capturing magical moments that will be remembered for a lifetime.
What should you pay attention to when choosing a location?
Safety : Safety should always be the top priority when choosing a location. If the horse is restless and nervous, a fenced-in location should be chosen. If the horse is afraid of certain things such as cows, water or cars, locations with these things should be avoided.
Size : An ideal location for horse photography is one that is large enough to allow you to stand far enough away with a 200-300mm lens to take full-body shots. While small corners can also be a good location, keep in mind that you should be able to move around freely without having to climb over objects.
Background : Most customer shoots take place at the horse's stable and in the immediate vicinity. It is therefore important to choose a location without distracting objects in the background. A row of trees, hedges or fields are always very suitable as a suitable background and are often used.
Incidence of light : When choosing your location, always pay attention to the direction the light is coming from and whether this direction matches your picture style and your desired background.