When it comes to capturing your horse’s personality, I’m not just looking for a pretty photograph, I want to show who they really are. As a black and white photographer, every choice I make, from lighting to angles, plays into how I bring out your horse’s character. 

Horses have such unique personalities, and I want to make sure that shines through in every photograph. 

In no particular order, here are 4 ways that I bring your horse’s true character to life in black and white.

How Relaxed You and Your Horse Are

Before I even pick up my camera, I will make sure that both you and your horse are feeling completely at ease. Before we even get to the photoshoot we will have spoken quite a bit and the first part of our photoshoot day will be a location scout and we use this time to not only choose the locations that we will use, but to get to know each other even more, perhaps even share a cuppa as you introduce me to your horses and their home.

I want you to feel comfortable in front of the camera, too. I know it can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not used to being in the spotlight. With my background as an actress, I’ve spent plenty of time in front of the camera myself, so I understand how it feels. I’ll take my time chatting with you, getting to know your horse, and making sure you both feel relaxed, there is no rush. 

When everyone’s at ease, the photos will be more natural and show the real connection between you and your horse.

Pro Tip: As someone who’s spent time in front of the camera, I know how energy and confidence play a huge role in creating authentic moments. Horses are incredibly intuitive – just like when I step onto set, if you stay calm and focused, your horse will pick up on that and be more natural in the shots.

The Look in Their Eyes

Let’s talk eyes. In black and white photography, the eyes really make the image. Horses’ eyes can tell a whole story, whether they’re soft and thoughtful or full of energy. For me, it’s all about capturing that expression. 

The eyes really are the window to the soul (there’s a reason why it’s considered a timeless proverb), when it comes to horses their gaze tells you everything. Whether they are calm, curious or playful, the eyes speak volumes about their personalities. 

And it’s those moments that I love to capture, sometimes it’s almost as if they are letting me in on a secret, telling me their story without saying a word, where every subtle change in light or expression adds drama and depth.

Pro Tip: When I capture that perfect shot, with that spark in their eye, I know I’ve caught something truly special for you.

Little Details That Tell Your Story

Sometimes, it’s not the big images that show the most about you and your horse’s story, it’s those little moments. 

Those little quiet moments when you forget that I’m there. When I capture nuzzling, cuddles, closeness, a togetherness, just you and your horse. 

In black and white photography, every little detail becomes part of the story, with my style of photography the focus shifts entirely to the pure connection and the unique story unfolding between you and your horse infant of me. And I’m so lucky that I get to capture that.

Pro Tip: The best moments happen when you are simply enjoying your time with your horse. Relaxing and being in the moment and trusting me to capture the magic as it unfolds. Often it’s the unplanned gestures, the way they nuzzle unto you or stand quietly buy your side, that make for the most powerful images.

The Connection Between You and Your Horse

Finally, one of the most important things I look for is the connection between you and your horse. Whether you’re standing together in the field, sharing a quiet moment, or just walking side by side, I want to capture that bond. In black and white photography, this connection is even more powerful because the absence of colour puts more focus on the emotions, the gestures, and the relationships that are at the heart of the image. You can see the trust and affection between you and your horse without the distraction of colour.

Pro Tip: Sometimes, it’s the moments when you’re not looking at the camera that show the strongest connection.

Final Thoughts

When I’m behind the camera, I’m not just trying to snap a photograph; I’m trying to capture the essence of your relationship, the little things that make your story together. 

And when we shoot in black and white, every moment, every detail is heightened. It’s the perfect way to tell your horse’s story in a way that’s timeless and full of emotion.

So, when you book a photoshoot, remember this, It’s not just about getting a pretty picture. It’s about telling the story of you and your horse, capturing their true personality and the incredible relationship that you have, and creating timeless images that reflect the bond that you share.

Rebekah Daven Photography… Capturing moments and memories in timeless, enduring exquisite photographs. A love letter to the relationship of you and your horse.