The date of your photo shoot is set and you are wondering what you will need to prepare and bring so that everything goes as smoothly as possible and that you leave with the incredible photos you so hoped for during your shoot. In this article, you should find all the useful tips to properly prepare yourself and your horse.
1 - Anticipate
Afraid of forgetting something on the big day? The best thing is to anticipate in advance!
Note the date of your shooting in your diary, and also plan:
a free slot the day before or the same morning, for a good hot shower and a complete makeover of your horse. From nostrils to hooves, it must be impeccable! And you will need to prepare all your equipment so as not to be in a rush a few hours before meeting us. So don't wait until the last minute to get organized...
a slot for the final touch-ups a few hours before our appointment because you are not safe from a nasty surprise when you arrive at the stable...
the time it takes you to get to our meeting point (van trip to the parking space + final brush and sponge + walk to the shooting spot)
Should I cut his mane?
If he has a beautiful, long mane, don't touch it, we love it (that's what Martine recommends if it's possible for your horse)! If you have a short mane, make sure to adjust it for a neat finish.
Mow or not?
Plan now that we will take photos of your horse naked, without saddle or blanket and its clipping or natural coat will be important. We are looking for a natural but neat result and we absolutely want to avoid too visible mowing...
If it is mowed, prefer full mowing done several weeks in advance. Please avoid mowing straight or in coats, fresh from the day before, which would not be very suitable for the style of photo you want to take.
If your horse has a full coat, leave it natural, what could be more natural in a snowy setting.
2 - Focus on making your four-legged friend look good
Shampoo from the day before
If you have the possibility, start by showering and shampooing your horse completely so that it is clean and has a shiny coat. Be sure to use a horse-friendly shampoo and conditioner and rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation.
Little pro tip: fill a bucket with water and add 5 to 10% apple vinegar and use this mixture as a final rinse water on your horse's body and hair. No need to rinse afterwards. The smell of vinegar will disappear once your horse is dry, however the shine will remain and will give great reflections to its coat in the photos!
If your horse has a long mane, remember to take the time to detangle it properly.
Once the horse is clean, use a heat knife then a soft towel to dry it well, especially in cold weather.
Once dry, I strongly recommend that you cover it with a blanket suitable for the season to prevent it from getting dirty and make sure to put it back in a clean box for the night.< /p>
Just before the shoot, have a soft cap and cleaning wipes or a sponge and hot water in a thermos to remove the last traces of dirt. Remember to pay particular attention to sensitive areas such as the head, mane, tail and limbs.
Don't forget to clean the mucous membranes with a clean sponge or baby wipes and take these tools with you for last minute touch-ups, on site. For optimal shine, you can spray it with a special detangling product.
Mane and tail care
A beautiful mane and tail will undoubtedly contribute to giving an extra touch of elegance to your horse's appearance. Before the photo shoot, carefully detangle the mane and tail using a comb or wide-toothed brush. You may want to braid the mane or tail to keep it clean and prevent tangling before the photoshoot. However, make sure the braids are loose and easy to remove without causing discomfort.
Hoof care
Well-maintained clogs are essential for any photo shoot. Healthy hooves contribute to your horse's overall appearance and show your commitment to their well-being. So remember to clean and brush them well before applying an ointment or grease adapted to your type of feet to make them shine just before your session.
3 - Plan to come accompanied
To avoid the stress of arriving on time, to a place that you and your horse do not know, with the snow, the cold and all the equipment to carry... if you can, I strongly advise you to come accompanied. This is particularly true if you come with several horses... So get organized now by contacting a trusted person who will listen to your needs and those of your horse and will be able to help you on site. We will not fail to involve her to attract the attention of your horse. A funny and enriching experience...
4 - Cover yourself well
It will be January and you will probably have to spend some time waiting in the snow. So plan to dress really warm. Bring layers so you can cover yourself and uncover yourself. And plan the same for your horse. Don't forget to bring warm gloves, a scarf and a good hat. High-top, fur-lined boots so you can walk in the snow without slipping and staying warm, as well as safe waterproof pants.
5 - Don't forget anything on site
IMPORTANT - Some of the places we can go to require us to leave no trace of our passage. Please provide the necessary equipment and time to pick up any droppings before your departure.
6 - Don't forget the essentials
Small list so you don't forget anything on the big day:
Waterproof and warm clothing for you
Warm blanket for your horse
Grooming kit for final touch-ups at the shooting location (brushes, wipes, hoof pick, sponge, hot water in a thermos)
Extra long lanyard
Badine/stick to get your horse moving
Small plastic bag to hang on the stick
Whatever else helps you make your horse calm or expressive (only you know it that well!)
Shovel and bucket to collect your horse's droppings
Photography halters will be lent to you on site and erased during retouching to make it appear that your horses are galloping in total freedom in the photos rendered.
We look forward to welcoming you there for your memorable photos!!
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