Horse show Photography: Tips for Capturing the Perfect Shot

As a horse show photographer, getting the perfect shot can be a real challenge. But fear not, with these hacks, you'll be sure to capture those precious moments in the arena. Whether or not you are using a professional camera or just your cell phone. With advancements in smartphone technology, the quality of phone cameras has significantly improved, making it possible to capture high-quality footage on the go. No matter what device you have on hand, these tips will help you take your horse videos to the next level.

First things first you have to prepare!

Dress appropriately and comfortably. A horse show can be a long day, and you'll want to be able to move around freely to get the shots you need. Make sure you always have backup storage or battery life, so bring extra charges and clear out some storage the night before. You don't want to find out your storage is full as the horse is walking into the ring. (Tip: always carry a peppermint, you never know when you may need it to get those ears up!!) Be patient and have fun, enjoy the experience, and let the photos capture those special moments.

Some of the go-to items I always pack ->

-Extra batteries, sd cards, and portable charger

-Snacks, for me and the horses <3

-WATER (an absolute must!!)

-Sunscreen and a hat (ain't no one gonna catch me being sunburnt)

-Comfortable shoes + clothing (extra point if you have sunglasses or a sunhat)

-Show schedule (Tip: write/highlight any classes you want to photograph in order to stay organized)

Secondly, arrive early and scout out the best spots. (Tip: this also helps you familiarize yourself with the showgrounds in case you ever lose the golfcart and need to run to a different ring haha) Look for unobstructed views of the ring and good lighting. Don't be afraid to ask other parents or photographers for recommendations on the best locations. (Tip: try to focus on a few angle jumps, they will give you a better overall picture and give you more time in between jumps to adjust as needed)

Once you've found a spot, take a moment to observe the lighting and adjust your camera settings accordingly. If it's a bright and sunny day, you may need to adjust your aperture to a smaller f-stop to avoid overexposure. On the other hand, if it's a cloudy or overcast day, you may need to increase your ISO to ensure a well-exposed shot.

Another useful tip is to anticipate the horse's movement. Pay attention to their gait and behavior and try to capture the moment where they look their best. This may require some patience and practice, but the payoff is worth it.

Finally, don't forget about the details. Capturing intricate braids, colorful ribbons, and shiny horseshoes can add depth and interest to your photos. And don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives to create a unique and eye-catching shot. (Tip: always wait until the rider is out of the ring to put your camera down, you don't want to miss any candid moments!)

With these horse show photography hacks, you'll be sure to capture the perfect shot. And who knows, you may even discover a new passion for photography in the process!