The Ultimate Guide to Prepping for Equine Black Background Portraits
There’s something absolutely magical about photographing horses, especially when you pair them with a striking black background. These photos are about more than just your horse, they’re about the connection you two share. But, before we can get that perfect wall-worthy image, it’s important to prep both your horse and the environment we’ll be working in.
Let’s walk through everything you need to do to ensure your horse looks like the star they are, and that your session goes off without a hitch!
How to Groom Your Horse for a Black Background Session
When it comes to black background portraits, grooming your horse to a competition or show standard always looks best. These photos are timeless and will likely hang on your walls for years to come, so a polished look is worth the extra effort.
Here’s what I recommend:
Go Show-Ready: Polished hooves, a braided mane and/or tail, trimmed whiskers, and a sleek, shiny coat elevate your horse’s look and make for stunning portraits. Grooming to this level is incredibly important even if you don’t show. These photos will be on your walls for years to come and you definitely want your horse looking his or her best.
Remember, the extra care you put into grooming will make all the difference in how polished the final images look!
What Tack Should My Horse Wear for the Session?
Choosing the right tack for your black background portrait session depends on the look you want to achieve in your final images. There are a few options:
Halter or Nothing at All*: Some people prefer the simplicity of a clean halter or no tack at all. These options allow the focus to stay entirely on your horse. If you love the timeless, minimalistic look, this could be the perfect choice.
Bridle: Others prefer the polished look of a bridle. If you choose this option, I recommend removing the reins and clipping a lead rope to the bit. This allows for a cleaner, more horse-focused image, and I’ll take care of editing the lead rope out in post-production.
*Photographing Without Tack
If you'd prefer to photograph your horse without tack, safety is always my priority. I recommend using a thin rope halter, which I’ll remove when editing. The thin rope halter helps with safety and control, while maintaining the tack-free look.
Best Types of Tack for Equine Photography
For a timeless, classic look that won’t feel outdated in a few years, I recommend using black or brown leather halters. These tend to photograph beautifully, offering a sleek and sophisticated feel while keeping the focus on your horse. If you’re opting for a bridle, the same applies—leather is a versatile choice that will complement your horse’s natural beauty without competing for attention.
Regardless of the type of tack, please make sure it’s clean and in good repair. Fesh, polished tack will ensure your horse looks their best, with the tack complementing them instead of distracting from the photo.
Your Outfit: Look Like a Star Without Outshining Your Horse
If you plan to be in some of the photos with your horse, think about how your outfit complements their coloring and tack. The outfit you choose should enhance the connection you have with your horse while keeping them front and center.
Neutral or Earthy Tones: For black background portraits, neutral or earthy tones work exceptionally well. These colors are elegant, timeless, and won’t compete with your horse or the dramatic black backdrop. Soft hues like deep greens, browns, beiges, and greys bring a natural, cohesive feel to a portrait.
Avoid Bright Patterns and Neon Colors: As tempting as it may be to wear something vibrant, bold patterns or neon colors can detract from the timeless quality of the image. Simple, solid-colored clothing creates a more sophisticated and polished look that doesn’t distract from your horse.
What to Bring: Essentials for a Seamless Session
To help your session run smoothly, be sure to bring these items along:
Grooming kit for last-minute touch-ups.
Fly spray
A clean lead rope and halter, preferably one that complements your horse’s coloring (see above).
Your horse’s favorite treats
Preparing the Barn Aisle or Arena for Your Black Background Session
For an indoor black background portrait session, the environment plays a big role in creating that striking, polished look these sessions are known for. Whether we’re shooting in a barn aisle or the edge of an indoor arena, the location should be prepped to ensure your horse takes center stage without any distractions. Here’s how you can prepare the space ahead of time:
Clean and Clear the Area
It’s important to ensure the area is tidy and free from clutter. Here are some things you can do:
Sweep the Floor: Clean up any straw, dirt, or hay that may have collected on the floor. Dust or debris can show up in the photos, and we want the space to look as pristine as your horse.
Remove Unnecessary Items: Clear away any equipment, spare tack, or extra items that will be in the direct vicinity of your horse that could distract from the image. This includes extra buckets, tools, or anything that’s not part of the shoot. Ideally, you’ll want the background to be as empty and neutral as possible, but I know that can be difficult. I can help clear the area if needed when I arrive.
Ambient Light: We’ll want to avoid direct sunlight hitting any part of your horse, as it can create harsh shadows and distracting highlights. Soft, diffused light is ideal for a flattering look. If there are any overhead lights shining directly on your horse, we’ll want to turn them off to avoid unwanted glare, shadows or unnatural color casts.
You + Your Horse + Me = A Piece of Your Story, Forever
A black background portrait session is more than just a photoshoot, it’s a celebration of your horse and the bond you share. Whether this is your first session or your fourth, I’m here to make the experience relaxed, fun, and unforgettable.
If you have any questions or want to book your session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to help you create something timeless and magical!