Getting Your Horse Ready for a Photoshoot with Alicia Nicole Photography!


Preparing your horse for a photo session can be quite the adventure – even more than getting yourself ready! But no worries, we're here to make it a breeze. Now, some lucky folks have horses that stay cleaner than a whistle, while the rest of us bring in our four-legged friends from the field looking like they've rolled in a dirt spa. So, let's get your equine partner looking their absolute best using some of my tried and true tips below!

Step 1: Bath Time
First off, give your horse a spa day, ideally a day before the big shoot. If you've got time for drying, a refreshing bath on the same day can do wonders. Does your horse have lots of white? Don't forget the purple shampoo!

Step 2: Grooming 
Grooming is the name of the game. Spend at least half an hour (or make it an hour if you skipped the bath) pampering your horse with clean brushes. And don't forget the shine spray for that dazzling glow.

Step 3: Hoof Magic
Your horse's hooves deserve some love too! Hose them down, give them a good cleaning, and finish off with a bit of hoof oil for that extra shine. Just make sure it dries before the paparazzi arrives.

Step 4: Sparkling White
If your horse has striking white markings, you can make them pop with some baby powder. It's like adding a dash of stardust to their look!

Step 5: Mental Prep – Let's Get Psyched!
Now, let's talk about your horse's mood. Photoshoots can be a bit unusual for our four-legged buddies, so we need to get them in the zone.  You can use the following tips to ensure a less-stress environment. 
  • Lunging: Even the calmest horses benefit from a bit of lunging to shake off excess energy and get into the groove before the session begins. Trust me on this!  It will let them burn off some extra energy before we expect them to stand still for the next 1-2 hours.
  • Timing Is Everything: If your horse's mealtime coincides with the shoot, feed them beforehand to keep those grumpy growls at bay. And remember, no high-energy snacks!

Now, when it comes to the extra special stuff like tack, bridles, and riding options, it's all about your personal style! The most important thing is that both you and your horse are ready for a fun session.

Bonus Tips for a Fantastically Magical Session:
  • Battle the Bugs: In summer, arm yourself and your horse with plenty of fly and bug spray. Trust us, it's a game-changer!
  • Time Is on Your Side: Give yourself extra time – add a 15-20 minute buffer to your schedule. You don't want to rush the pre-shoot excitement!
  • Stay Clean, Stay Glam: After grooming, make sure to wash your hands. Those close-up shots demand spotless hands!
  • Grooming Goodies: Pack a hairbrush, hairspray, and makeup essentials for those last-minute touch-ups.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: If you're planning any out-of-the-ordinary shots, like riding bareback or including other pets, practice makes perfect. Get your horse accustomed to the fun stuff before the big day!
  • Get Your Beauty Sleep: The night before the shoot, make sure you and your horse get a good night's sleep. Lay out your outfits and accessories in advance for a smooth, stress-free afternoon.

​Now you're all set for a horse-tastic shoot with Alicia Nicole Photography!