This January I was challenged to run a Horse Photography Workshop. The date was set, and there was little flexibility. The pressure was on for the most amazing weather. Which we got. Not streams of bright sunshine – which would have caused a lot of light and dark variation falling on horse and owner, but a soft cloudy day. Meaning I could position the horse and owner anywhere.

When location hunting, I didn’t need a field with long grass, or a beautiful wood. Instead, we found the most amazing old Cheshire barn that was being renovated. It made the perfect background for several photographs. I have a fascination for history and any beautiful old barns or houses, just screamed to be used in the imagery. Especially if the client lives there and it means so much to them.

An indoor school can also help add the most atmospheric of photographs. Positioning the horse at the front of the barn, and using natural light from behind the photographer to capture them.

A number of bushes where used for another backdrop. And we used the local quiet road too. It’s amazing when you start looking, just want fantastic locations you can choose, this time of year.

Photography Equipment

Whether it is winter or summer I always keep my photography equipment to the bare minimum, so as not to distract a horse. I want to keep the horse so relaxed and because of this, I use no flash or reflectors. Just one camera and my lens 28-70mm f.28 lens.

Horse Photography Gallery

Below are a selection of images taken on 31st January 2025. A cloudy day, using natural light. 


Book your Equine Photoshoot Experience

So if you are tempted to experience a horse photoshoot, don’t think you have to wait until the summer, beautiful, fine art images can be taken any time of the year.