Getting Ready

Choose colors that work well with the color of your horse. The key is to make sure that the colors you are working with go well together. If you are unsure what colors to wear, consider choosing a color pallet that would look good in your home. Everyone’s preference is different, but I personally like grey, tan/cream, and blush. I also really like mixing blue/navy into that same palette.

It’s best not to wear the same color as your horse. Instead put different shades of the same color palate or complementing colors. The more shades from the same color palate you add the more visually interesting the wardrobe will become.

Neon and overly bright colors can change skin tones and don’t look flattering in images. It’s best to avoid neon colors in all attire and tack.

Layers and textures add visual interest to images. Many people incorporate layers by adding a sweater, scarves, vest, suspenders, etc. A textured look can be enhanced by using accessories like jewelry, lace, flowers to the hair, belts or even fun tights

It’s very tempting to wear loose clothing, but it should fit well/snug. You should even consider sizing down in clothing sizes. If clothing is baggy, they will look baggy and unkempt in the pictures. Maxi dresses tend to look great. If you are wearing a dress or shirt that isn’t form fitting consider adding a belt to the outfit. Try not to wear solid white as it’s hard to see definition in white. Large clothing also does not flatter your figure. It’s also important to try your clothing on before the day of your shoot.

– It’s okay to go a little out of your comfort zone when choosing clothing for your family pictures. However, the clothing should reflect your sense of style. You want to look like you in the pictures and that won’t be the case if you choose something that you would never wear again. Choose something that flatters your body and that makes you feel good. This is especially important for the adults. You should wear something you feel good in.

– Don’t forget your shoes/boots. You will likely be doing some walking or riding during your shoot so it’s important to choose shoes you can walk/ride in. However, it’s also important to make sure your shoes/boots look nice. Other than boots, wedges are a great look for women and you don’t have worry about them getting stuck in the grass. If you have shoes that require socks make sure that your socks are appropriate as they may show if you sit on the ground. Know that with horses, even during the summer months it’s not acceptable to do bare feet shots! You can always bring a few different styles of shoes to choose from once you get to the shoot

Avoid anything with visible logos. This tends to be distracting and dates the images quickly. Don’t get a haircut during the week of the session to avoid that freshly cut look. Don’t wear your Fitbit or other large watches that take away from your look. Don’t try outfits on for the first time the day of your shoot.

If your shoot is in Spring in a green field of grass, then you probably want to avoid also wearing green. Keep your backdrop in mind when choosing outfits. Make sure you wear colors that will not blend easily into the background color, this includes the surroundings as well as the time of day. We can talk about during our consult over the phone or Zoom.

Groom your horse prior to getting dressed. Recruit help to have extra hands the day of the session. Take the time to lunge your horse or exercise him/her before final grooming. Provide the photographer with some information about you and your horse. Make sure to let me know anything that could spook your horse as we want this to be a pleasant and fun experience for you both.