Photographs undoubtedly provide a time capsule of memories. The bond between horse and owner is something truly special, our four legged friends are dearly treasured members of our family. Ten years ago, I rode my own horse to my wedding because she was such an important part of my life and I wanted her involved in the day. Thanks to my photographer, I have some of the most spectacular wedding photos that i will treasure forever. Sadly in 2019 as age cruelly crept up on her, I had to make the hardest decision and say goodbye to my beautiful girl. I will never forget her, or the things we achieved together, and most importantly, I have lots of wonderful images to look back on throughout my life to always remember how special she was. I always say photographs are like the key to a vault of memories. I have never felt that so keenly as I did after I said goodbye to my May Million. My one in a million.
Whether you have a child who is rapidly outgrowing a much loved pony, whether you are a happy hacker, an elite competitor or anywhere inbetween, our equine friends come in all shapes and sizes and I aim to capture your love and friendship in a really relaxed and informal manner that captures the true essence of your relationship. We can create something truly magical, you can be dressed up all fancy or you can be knee deep in mud with hay in your hair, I really don't mind. Whatever sums you up best and shouts 'this is so us'
An equestrian photography session with Samantha Lowe Photography will leave you with a treasure trove of memories to delve into time and time again. Preserving your love for a lifetime with beautiful, elegant artwork to display proudly in your home.
So what does an equestrian photosession entail?
Depending on which collection you opt for, an equestrian session will include either a 1 or 2 hour photosession including photography by Samantha Lowe and includes as many outfit changes as you require in a location to suit you. Travel within Staffordshire is included however nationwide travel can be easily arranged at a cost of 45p per mile so do contact me for a quotation to include travel if you are a little further a field. With a selection of digital products, beautiful wall art and stunning albums available, your images from the session will be individually edited and showcased to you via a private online viewing gallery and from there you can begin the difficult task of choosing your favourites for your finished collection.
Where does the photosession take place?
The shoot can take place at your yard, in woodlands, at the beach, at your home or any other horse friendly location that you feel would make a pretty backdrop for your images. If you have transport, for an additional fee during the spring/summer/autumn months I can also arrange access to stunning farmland in Hilderstone, Staffordshire, combining fields, woodland and a beautiful stream which makes the most perfect back drop to your session.
What should I wear?
Smart casual country attire works brilliantly for a rustic woodland shoot but if you have a theme in mind your outfit and session can be tailored to suit any vision from prom dress shoots to wedding dress shoots to mystical fairy woodland sessions and anything in between. Planning a couple of different outfits will ensure you have plenty of variety in your finished gallery too. Having your hair and make up done is pampering that we can always get on board with - we want you to feel extra special for your photos and can happily recommend industry professionals that we have worked with many times in the wedding industry if you did want to have a little extra pampering for your session.
What happens during the session?
Your session can feature ridden or inhand images, headshots of your horse or a combination of everything and I operate in a really relaxed, gentle style where there is no rush and no stress. We can't always predict how horses and ponies will react to a new environment or a new person and there is absolutely no pressure to immediately have a perfectly behaved horse standing perfectly still, with ears pricked, looking like a catalogue model as soon as i pick up my camera. We will ease into the session gently, if they are initially intrigued by my presence and stand serenely looking at me, brilliant... alternatively, if they are towing you to the nearest blade of grass, don't panic. The key with all animal photography is patience. Patience and experience, although treats and a few other tricks that i'll keep up my sleeve go a long way too. We recommend having a helper with you who can hold the horse in between shots and help to catch their attention / shake treats etc. I will assess your chosen area for the best back drop and lighting combinations before the shoot begins so that we have a plan and there is no unneccessary waiting around for your four legged friend. I utilise natural light for most of my outdoor equestrian sessions and so even the most sensitive of horses are kept relaxed and happy as i very rarely use flash during these sessions.
What if the weather is awful?
A sensible consideration given we are in the UK! For a truly dreadful forecast I would look at rescheduling, for mild drizzle and showers I'd probably still look to go ahead - after all, us equestrians aren't fair weather riders are we!
How long after the session will we see the images?
Usually within two weeks, during non peak wedding season it may be quicker than this. All of the images will be edited and uploaded onto a private online gallery for you. Please do not take screen shots from the gallery as this is a poor reflection of the image's true quality as well as being a copyright infringement. Instead, please follow the instructions in the email detailing how to make selections for your digital downloads and your chosen products.
How do we book a session?
Click
here to fill out an initial enquiry form and I will be in touch shortly to discuss your session.
How do we pay?
Payment is required at the time of booking and you will be emailed an invoice that can be paid online. Alternatively, you can purchase a gift voucher
here
So what does it involve I hear you ask?