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How to prepare your horse
If you are anything like me, getting your horse ready for your session is a higher priority than getting yourself ready. With so many things that need to be taken care of to have everything in place for a session that runs smoothly, being mentally prepared with a session checklist can help.
1 Week to your session date
Up to a week before your session make sure you have clipped your horses bridle path, whiskers, above their eyes, trim their ears and fetlocks if you normally do such things prior to a show.
The Day Before
It helps to have a real good look around your session location the day before to make sure it is nice and tidy. Put away extra items in alleyways. Ensure the grass is mowed if you want a more manicured look in your final images. If bathing your horse is in order, the evening before or the morning of your session is a good time for this. Personally, I prefer 24 hours between a bath and a session as some horses tend to poof up after a bath.
The Day Off
Lunge your horse a few hours before the shoot. This is important to take the edge off. It really does make a difference. Braid or band your horse’s mane and forelock. Make sure the barn is swept and clean.
Polish hooves, spot clean your horse and touch up any white spots or socks.
Now you should be within a few hours of your session. Get your hair and makeup done. Pack a bag with wet wipes and rags. Add any brushes you will want for your horse, treats, hoof pick. Including a water for yourself, any makeup for touch ups, a lint roller, fly spray and any other items you will want for your session.
30 minutes before your session do a once over on your horse. Pick their feet and apply polish. Face polish should be applied sparingly and black should be avoided.
Change into your session clothing.
I hope these few tips help keep you organized when getting ready for your Horse + Rider Session.
If you have the most wonderful horse deserving of his/her own photos, please use the inquiry page.
