How to Prepare Your Horse for a  Equine Portrait Session in

Tennessee & Kentucky

The 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 horse looks impeccable:

• Groomed to perfection – Brush your horse thoroughly from head to tail, ensuring a clean, even coat with no lingering dust or debris.

• Completely dry – If bathing beforehand, allow ample time for drying. We don’t want to miss that perfect golden hour glow waiting on a damp belly.

• Spotless coat – Carefully remove any stains, including green spots, which are easily highlighted in portraits.

• Polished mane and forelock – Brush straight and smooth for a refined, tidy look or braid.  If you plan to trim the bridle path, do so a few days in advance rather than the day of. Fresh trims can expose the scalp or dandruff, which is easily visible on camera. For best results, avoid trimming too close to the skin.

• Tail brushed out fully – A full, flowing tail adds drama and elegance to your images.

• Clean eyes, nose, and mouth – Wipe gently with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or discharge. (Keep a rag handy for last-minute touch-ups.)

• Subtle shine – If you oil your horse’s nose or ears, use only a minimal amount. In portraits, too much shine can be distracting.

• Hoof care – Pick out all dirt and debris, and brush down the hooves for a clean, natural finish. 

• Tack check – Opt for clean, classic leather halters or bridles. Make sure all tack is wiped down and the bit is polished to a soft gleam.

• Get the wiggles out – If your horse has been on stall rest for 12+ hours or tends to have high energy, a brief lunge before your session can help them settle and focus.