From the Barn to the Blog

Real stories. Real horses. Real art.

Welcome to The Mane Blog by Daphne’s Equine Portraits — a collection of stories celebrating the beauty, spirit, and artistry of the horse. Here you’ll discover behind-the-scenes features from fine art equine photography sessions, inspiring horse-and-rider stories, and expert insight from an award-winning equine photographer in Tennessee. Each post honors the connection we share with our horses and the timeless portraits that turn those bonds into legacy artwork for generations to come.

uxury equine wall art portrait of Friesian and Andalusian horses Clarksville TN

Dreams, Legacy, and Horses: Friesian & Andalusian Portraits in Tennessee

Dreams, Legacy, and Horses: Friesian & Andalusian Portraits in Tennessee A Father–Son Legacy in HorsesEvery so often, a session reminds me why I love what I do—and this was one of those times.Meet Alam and his father, two horsemen whose bond is as timeless as the horses they love. Together, they share not only a passion for riding but also a story woven with dreams, patience, and legacy.Gavilan – The Smokey Black FriesianAlam’s horse, Gavilan, is an ...

Imported Danish Warmblood with Valegro lineage featured in black background portrait in Wellington FL

Elizabeth Priddy & Her Danish Warmblood, Jeremiah 29 Eleven

Elizabeth Priddy & Her Danish Warmblood, Jeremiah 29 Eleven Black Background Horse Portraits in Franklin, TNFeaturing Elizabeth Priddy & Her Danish Warmblood, "Jay"There’s something incredibly special about photographing a horse and rider who share a deep bond—and our recent black background session with Elizabeth Priddy and her horse Jeremiah 29 Eleven (“Jay”) was exactly that kind of magic.Held at her private farmstead in beautiful Franklin, ...

Rebecca Anderton & Bromance of Brownland Farm

Champion Partnership: Rebecca Anderton & Bromance of Brownland FarmI recently had the pleasure of photographing Rebecca Anderton of Brownland Horse Farm in Franklin, Tennessee. Not only is Rebecca a talented amateur rider, but she also plays a vital role behind the scenes—managing the prestigious horse shows hosted at Brownland Farm.Rebecca’s passion for horses began when she was just three years old, inspired by her mother’s love for riding. Since ...

Wellington FL equestrian photographer captures pony and rider connection during fall session

From Rescue to Champion: The Story of Tator Chip

Every once in a while, a horse comes along with a story that feels like a fairytale—and Tator Chip, lovingly known as “Chip,” is exactly that kind of pony.Now 12 years old, Chip wasn’t always the picture of health and elegance he is today. When Holly Tabor found him eight years ago, he was in heartbreaking condition—skinny, sickly, and standing at a stockyard with an uncertain future. But Holly and her daughter, Hannah, saw something special in him. They took him ...

dark bay mare warmblood at Port Royal Equine Center in Adams, Tennessee

Maribeth & Rosie: A Heartfelt Journey to Her Dream Horse

My Precious Gift: Maribeth & Rosie’s StorySome horse stories begin in the show ring, but Maribeth’s began on the back of an old mule.At just five years old, she would ride her grandfather’s mule with nothing more than a bridle—no saddle, no fear—just a little girl falling in love with the rhythm of hoofbeats and the magic of connection. That first ride sparked a lifelong horse dream she carried quietly for decades.Life carried her in many directions over the ...

Dutch warmblood Grand Prix dressage horse in Franklin, Tennessee

From Kentucky to Germany: Bridgid & Her Heart Horse Shrimpy

A Life in the Saddle: Bridgid’s Equestrian Journey Some horses shape us. Others reflect the strength, discipline, and dreams we've carried since childhood. For Bridgid, it’s been both.A Passion Ignited at NineBridgid’s love of horses began at age 9 with her first riding lesson—a spark that never faded. That early passion eventually led her to Shrimpy (Karina Sandra TF), a Dutch Warmblood she discovered as a yearling at Timbach Farm in Indiana. Bridgid was ...

grey dressage gelding on black background in Bowling Green Kentucky

Te-Amo, an Azteca Gelding with a Heart of Gold

Creating Fine Art from the Horses We Love in Bowling Green, Kentucky Fine Art Equine Portraits | Bowling Green, KYFeaturing Te-Amo, an Azteca Gelding with a Heart of GoldEvery once in a while, a horse comes along who feels like he stepped right out of a storybook. Te-Amo is one of those horses.Photographed in Bowling Green, Kentucky, this black background equine session was one I won’t soon forget. With soulful eyes, a gentle heart, and a presence that practically whispered ...

horse and rider photo in Adams, Tennessee at sunset

What you can expect at your Horse & Rider Session

What to Expect at Your Horse and Rider Photography SessionIf you're dreaming of stunning portraits that celebrate your bond with your horse, you're in the right place. As a lifelong equestrian and professional photographer, I blend my two greatest passions to create relaxed, meaningful images that showcase both your personality and your partnership.Here’s what you can expect when booking your equine photography session:Step 1: Let’s Start Planning After you reach out, ...

How to Display Your Equine Portraits

I know how much my clients love having digital images from their Tennessee equine portrait sessions.But let’s be honest—those beautiful moments often end up tucked away in a folder or floating around in the cloud, instead of being displayed where they can truly be enjoyed.That’s why I’ve created a collection of stunning, versatile print options—designed to match any home style and bring your bond with your horse to life on your walls. Loose PrintsThis one gets ...

grey warmblood horse on black background in Lexington, kentucky

How to Prep Your Horse for A Photo Session

How to Prepare Your Horse for a Equine Portrait Session inTennessee & KentuckyThe level of preparation is entirely up to you—but in fine art equine portraiture, it’s the attention to detail that sets your images apart. A camera captures everything, from the polish to the imperfections. For portraits that reflect your horse’s true elegance, I recommend preparing as if you were entering the most prestigious class of your career.Here are a few expert tips to ensure your ...