Your Black Background Shoot
How Does It Work?
The process for creating these beautiful images is actually quite simple, but make sure you follow my top tips to ensure it has the right effect!
Your horse stands in a barn, stable, or indoor space - I then make sure each horse is positioned for the particular pose I'm after. All the time, I'm thinking about how the light hits the horse - I want to create the most flattering angles and add depth to each image.
Each image is carefully exposed to create the effect of the black background largely in camera. I only use natural lighting for these photographs, allowing me to work quickly with horses who may be sharp, nervous or just not very co-operative - there's no faffing around involved. They're so easy to create - your helper should stand on the side to get the horses attention whilst the owner stands and holds the horse. It's simple, but a very effective way to produce a beautiful image.
I have compiled the most frequently asked questions ahead of a black background mini shoot, and here are the answers:
Can you photograph black horses?
Absolutely! I sure can, and in my opinion, the effect often looks better with black, or dark horses! Black horses aren't actually black - there are lots of other colours in those coats, such as purples and blues.
What if I don't have a stable?
I can work something on most yards - from field shelters, hay barns, walkways, feed rooms! So long as there are covered sides, and a roof most places work.
The most important thing is that the entrance way is in the SHADE at the time of the shoot.
My horse fidgets!
I hear that one all the time - I just need them to stand still for a split second to take the photograph! We can bribe them with food and plenty of other distractions. I've dealt with a variety of horses over the years - every owner is convinced their horse was probably the worst behaved horse I've ever photographed, but I can assure you, they're probably actually well behaved in comparison!
I'd love my horse to be photographed with nothing on?
Most of the time that's not a problem, providing it's safe to do so. I have a “naked” rope halter that we can pop on and I will then remove those ropes afterwards!
Can you remove leadropes?
Absolutely, I can remove leadropes, chains and reins! I'll also do a quick tidy up of any snot/dribble too or any bits of hay or food we didn't wipe off! Most of the horses I photograph will have a leadrope attached to them, and these are then removed.
Can I have my horses in one shot together?
If you want the horses in the same image, it's usually easier to photograph them separately, and then Photoshop them together. As those who have had a shoot before know, sometimes it's hard enough to get one horse looking the right way, at the right time, with ears forward, so just for ease, I'll photograph the horses separately.
How should my horse be turned out?
They should be clean, well groomed, as though you were going to a show. Plaiting is completely optional, although I do prefer a natural mane for the photographs, but that's just personal preference!
Please have a headcollar and bridle there, just in case we need a bit extra control – even if you plan for them to have “nothing” on – it’s just best to be over prepared. A minimal look works best – so a simple leather headcollar (rather than a bright nylon one) or a bridle with no bit guards or a distracting bit.
You can read more here!
I have a whole page dedicated to how to prepare for your horse for their black background shoot here.
What is available after the shoot?
I offer a range of prints and other products, which can all be found here.
Have you got any questions that I haven't answered - please do get in touch!
Please click here to learn more about how to best prepare your horse for the shoot, and anything else you should be bringing with you!
