How to Take Great Photos of Your Horse

Groom Your Horse Thoroughly

Your horse should be spotless. Give them a thorough bath, brush their coat until it shines, clean their hooves, brush their mane and tail, and wipe their face. A clean horse photographs much better and shows that you care for your horse properly.

Choose Your Location Carefully

Pick a location with a clean, uncluttered background. An empty pasture, sand arena, or even a clean stall can work well. Avoid busy backgrounds with lots of other horses, cars, or distracting objects. Make sure the ground is relatively flat and safe.

Prepare Your Equipment

Clean your camera or phone lens before starting. Make sure your device has enough battery and storage space. If using a phone, consider the camera settings—many smartphones have excellent cameras these days!

Best Time of Day

The best light for photographing horses is during the "golden hours"—early morning (within two hours of sunrise) or late afternoon (within two hours of sunset). The light is softer and more flattering during these times, and you'll avoid harsh shadows.

Overcast Days Are Great

Overcast days provide even, diffused light that's perfect for horse photography. The clouds act as a natural softbox, eliminating harsh shadows and bright highlights on your horse's coat.

Avoid Bright Midday Sun

If you must shoot during the middle of the day, find open shade—like under a barn overhang or in an open-sided barn. Avoid dappled light under trees as it creates distracting patterns.

Keep the Sun Behind You

When positioning your horse, try to keep the sun at your back so the horse is evenly lit. Avoid backlit situations (sun behind the horse) as it will make your horse look dark and silhouetted.

Standing Square

Start with photos of your horse standing square on level ground. Position them so all four feet are visible and the horse is in a natural, balanced pose.

• Right side profile: Full horse visible from nose to tail
• Left side profile: Shows both sides for completeness
• Front view: Head and chest visible, ears forward
• Rear view: Shows hindquarters and tail
• Angled views: From front-left, front-right, back-left, back-right

Get Low

Squat down or bend your knees while taking photos to get shots that are more at eye level with your horse. This shows the horse's conformation better than shooting from above.

Step Back

Take shots from about 10-15 feet away so you can capture the entire horse in the frame with some space around them. This allows potential buyers to see the full picture.

Close-Up Shots

Take close-up photos of your horse's head from both sides, showing their eyes, ears, and facial features. Buyers want to see the horse's expression and personality.

Longeing Photos

Have someone longe your horse at the walk, trot, and canter while you photograph from the side. These photos show movement quality and can highlight your horse's athleticism and correct movement patterns.

Free Movement

Photos of your horse freely moving in a paddock or pasture can show their natural movement and personality. Capture them at different gaits if possible.

Use Burst Mode

Most smartphones and cameras have a burst mode feature that takes multiple photos rapidly. Use this for action shots and pick the best frames later.

Why These Matter

Photos of your horse being ridden are incredibly valuable. They show the horse's level of training, how they carry themselves under saddle, and their overall appearance when working.

What to Capture

• Rider and horse from both sides at a standstill
• Working at different gaits (walk, trot, canter)
• If jumping: horse over fences
• If trail riding: horse on trails
• If discipline-specific: working in that discipline

Safety First

Make sure the rider is experienced and the situation is safe. Don't stage photos that are beyond the horse's training level.

Hoof Photos

Take clear photos of all four hooves from the bottom and sides. Show the condition of the hooves, whether they're shod or barefoot, and any markings or unique characteristics.

Markings

If your horse has distinctive markings, capture them clearly. Include detailed shots of facial markings, leg markings, or unique coat patterns.

Body Condition

Take close-up shots that show your horse's body condition, muscle development, and overall health. These help buyers assess the horse's current state.

Any Blemishes

Be transparent—take clear photos of any scars, blemishes, or imperfections. Honesty builds trust with buyers and prevents issues later.