Horse Photography - Getting those ears forward.

This can be one of the hardest things when it comes to photographing horse portraits.

When I go to an equine photography portrait session I have a number of different objects I take with me in my 'bag of tricks' because what works for one horse may not work for another, and what works once may not work the second time.

Some of the things that may help get your equine subjects ears forward are a plastic bag, a coke bottle filled with pebbles, a squeaky dog toy, feed bucket, a handful of hay, another horse, a leafy branch, and a treat like apple or licorice. Use your imagination, anything that makes a noise or smells good to a horse will generally get a reaction.

Always test your ear pricking paraphernalia slowly and some distance from the horse before attempting to use it to ensure it will not frighten and spook the horse.

If you don't have a helper with you and don't want the horse looking directly at the camera you can throw an item into the air to land on the ground where you want the horse to look, or you can kick it along the ground to keep your hands on the camera ready for that shot.

If your subject is a stallion you will find the best results will be found by moving or placing a mare some distance in front of him. This will not only get his ears forward but will also get him to arch his neck and pump up his muscles, making him look more masculine.

Most importantly, always be ready! Even the most difficult horse will put his ears forward at some stage. If you're not ready with your finger on the trigger, you just might miss it.

Satiable Shooting!
Susie.
Ruste Photo & Art