Ashleigh, Andy, & Moe
San Juan Capistrano, California
There are moments in photography that feel extra special—not just because of the beauty of the setting or the subject, but because of the deep personal connection behind the lens. This session was one of those moments. I had the absolute joy of photographing my beautiful friend, Ashleigh, alongside her boyfriend and her beloved horse.
A Friendship Built in the Barn
Ashleigh and I grew up together at the barn, and those years were filled with some of my favorite memories. From long days spent riding and caring for horses to endless laughter and impromptu photoshoots, we made the most of every moment. The bond we shared with horses was a defining part of our lives, and getting to capture that same love through my camera years later was incredibly meaningful.
We've had our fair share of photo sessions in the past, but this one was one for the books. Seeing Ashleigh in this season of life—deeply in love, confident, and still as connected to her horse as ever—made this shoot truly unforgettable.
A Dreamy Golden Hour at Rancho Sierra Vista
The location couldn’t have been more perfect. We shot at Rancho Sierra Vista Equestrian Center, a stunning location with a race track, rustic barns, and open arenas that create a breathtaking backdrop. But what truly made this session magical was the golden hour light—that warm, dreamy glow that bathes everything in soft, ethereal tones.
Golden hour is hands-down my favorite time to shoot, and I couldn’t recommend it enough for equestrian sessions. The way the light filters through the trees, highlights the dust in the air, and adds a natural radiance to both people and horses is simply unmatched. It enhances every detail—the gleam of a horse’s coat, the sparkle in a rider’s eyes, and the quiet, intimate moments that make a session feel so personal.
Capturing Love & Connection
What made this session so special wasn’t just the location or the light, but the authentic connection between Ashleigh, her boyfriend, and her horse. The way her boyfriend looked at her as she interacted with her horse, the way Ashleigh’s face lit up when her horse nuzzled her, and the effortless joy that radiated from them all—it was a reminder of how love, in all its forms, is so beautifully intertwined with our equestrian journeys.
Horses aren’t just animals we ride. They are family, best friends, and heartbeats in our lives. And when you find someone who loves and supports that part of you, it’s something truly special.
A Session to Remember
This session was one I’ll always hold close to my heart. It was a celebration of friendship, love, and the deep connection we share with our horses—and I feel so honored to have captured it.
If you’re considering booking a horse and rider session, I can’t recommend golden hour at a stunning location enough. The combination of natural beauty, soft light, and authentic connection creates timeless, breathtaking images that you’ll cherish forever.
Would you ever do a golden hour session with your horse? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
