4 reasons holding you back from a black background session
(and why they are easier than you think)
You’ve seen these sessions, they’re everywhere. You open Instagram and see your friend is posting all the images from their latest session, and is raving about how amazing the session was. Or perhaps it’s your coach that has just gotten one. Wherever you look, you see em. You think to yourself “I’d love to have one of my own, but my horse would never……”
Your mind wanders, considering all the reasons this shoot isn’t for you. You think about everything that could go wrong on the day; how stressful it would be. What if my horse doesn’t cooperate? What about that big scar on his leg? What if he spooks at all the equipment?
Does this sound like you? If it does I’m here to tell you that I hear you, and you better believe I’ve been there - too many times to count.
That’s why I’m sharing this blog, to tell you that you are not the only person to feel this way, and despite your concerns this shoot is definitely for you.
what are the main reasons I’ve heard holding equestrians back from these sessions?
1 - My horse won’t stand still long enough for that
This is the absolute number one concern I hear when talking to owners. There is a misconception that your horse needs to stand absolutely still during these sessions. It’s certainly helpful don’t get me wrong, but a fidgety horse is not the end of the world.
During my conversations with clients I ask a lot of clarifying questions to better understand their horses needs, and personalities. If a client expresses that their horse is a little on the active side I tailor a session to enhance their energy. Some of the most interesting images from a session is when a horse is in motion. Take the image on the left for example, instead of annoying this mare with constant attempts to stand still I instead framed the image in such a way that her movement was the focus.
There is no right or wrong way for these session to take place. My main focus is on your horse, and how they are feeling. Their comfort is number one and as such I work with what they are able to offer me on the day. I’d stake my house on the fact that however worried you are about your horses behaviour, I’ve worked with worse and still come out the other side successful.
Some other tried and true methods I live by are:
Tip 1: Ensure your horses have a chance to stretch their legs in the days prior to their session. This could mean increased pasture time if your horse is stabled. Increasing their working days the week of is also very helpful. I highly recommend your horse has a light lunge on the day to allow them to get all their sillies out. It is also a great indication of their mood.
Tip 2: You’re not you when you’re hungry, and the same thing goes for our horses - Especially if the session is around their lunch or dinner time. A small fibrous feed an hour before their session will settle the stomach acid in their tummies and leave them feeling comfortable and content.
And remember, it only takes but a split second for the camera to capture the moment. With over 4 years of experience in this area I mean it when I say don’t worry - I’ve got you.
2 - My horse will spook at the backdrop
Surprise! I don’t actually use any sort of backdrops, props or lighting stands. All of the magic of the black background session is done solely with natural light and a little bit of editing magic on my end.
I position your horse at the entrance of a barn aisle or shed, ensuring they are are well illuminated but out of direct light. If you’re worried that your barn is a little too cluttered, don’t even stress. Anything behind the horse is simply erased from existence!
See the original image of Jaxon above. He’s happy and comfortable in his own stable >>
These sessions do require a large enough undercover area such as a barn, shed or indoor however.
3 - Blemishes, scratches and cuts - Oh my!
Short of wrapping our horses in bubble wrap, there is no way to stop injuries. And those injuries can sometimes leave behind a little reminder in the form of scar. A lot of my clients express their concern of the quality of the images due to a few ‘tattoos’ their horses have acquired over the years. I’m here to reassure you that I can 100% remove that unsightly blemish, spot or mark leaving your horse as injury free as the day they were born. Alternatively some clients prefer I leave their battle scars in, as it is apart of what makes them, them. I make sure to have this discussion with you on the day on what you’d prefer to stay or go.
See my before and after of the beautiful Nykoma, my most senior gentleman to date. At the grand old age of 42 he certainly had some stories to display.
4 - It all sounds too stressful
This is the most important one. Perhaps you’ve had a session before and it didn’t quite go to plan. Perhaps it left you feeling discouraged and anxious about ever having another? We’ve all had those moments where our expectations weren’t met the way we’d hoped. It leaves you feeling so disheartened, and can even sometimes make you feel like you’ve wasted your time and money.
From the moment you enquire with me, I am there with you. I schedule a call with you and guide you through the entire process step by step, and I never leave you wondering ‘what’s next?’. I check in multiple times before your session and address those burning questions around your expectations, artwork options, tack choices - the list goes on. I provide you with a clear and concise plan, tailored completely to eliminate your concerns or worries. I remove that stress from you and allow you to simply focus on you and your horse. Because that’s what this is all about - you and them.
Are you still feeling held back?
The 4 things I have addressed today aren’t an exhaustive list by any means, so if you’re still feeling apprehensive about booking a black background session with your horse I encourage you to get in touch. We’ll schedule a call to eliminate the concerns buzzing around your head.
Hit that button below and let’s chat.