Camryn & Feeling
San Juan Capistrano, California
There is something truly special about witnessing the connection between a horse and their rider. It’s a bond built on trust, patience, and countless hours spent together in and out of the saddle. I had the incredible opportunity to shadow Ashleigh Magnus Photography for a horse and rider session, and it was nothing short of magical.
The Perfect Setting: Blue Ridge Farm
Nestled in a picturesque landscape, Blue Ridge Farm provided the ideal backdrop for this equestrian session. With its rolling hedges, pristine arenas, and breathtaking scenery, every angle offered a new opportunity to create stunning images. The natural light filtering through the clouds, the quiet rustle of the wind, and the rhythmic sound of hooves against the footing set the perfect mood for a session that felt both intimate and grand.
A Duo That Stole the Show: Camryn & Feeling
Our stars for the day were Camryn & Feeling, and let me tell you, this pair was an absolute dream to capture. Camryn's gentle connection with her equine partner was evident in every interaction—whether she was adjusting Feeling’s bridle, whispering soft reassurances, or simply sharing a quiet moment together between shots. Feeling, a stunning mare with an undeniable presence, seemed to know exactly how beautiful she was. In fact, she even caught a glimpse of herself in one of the dressage arena mirrors and couldn't help but admire her own reflection—because, let’s be honest, she looked amazing!
The Magic of a Horse & Rider Session
Unlike traditional equine portraits, horse and rider sessions are all about storytelling. They capture the essence of partnership—those in-between moments where love and trust shine through. Whether it’s the laughter shared after a playful nuzzle, the quiet pride in a well-executed movement, or the way a rider instinctively reaches for their horse’s mane, these moments are what make equestrian photography so powerful.
Ashleigh’s ability to highlight emotion and movement in her work was incredible to witness. She guided Camryn and Feeling seamlessly, ensuring that both looked natural and comfortable while still creating dynamic, frame-worthy shots. Watching her work reinforced just how much goes into capturing the perfect equestrian image—from lighting and angles to timing and connection.
A Session to Remember
This session was a perfect reminder of why I love equestrian photography so much. Seeing a partnership like Camryn & Feeling’s come to life through the lens was an absolute joy, and I walked away feeling inspired and excited for future shoots.
Whether you’re a competitive rider, a weekend trail enthusiast, or someone who simply cherishes the time spent with your horse, a horse and rider session is an incredible way to preserve those moments forever. If you’ve ever thought about booking one, I can’t recommend it enough—it’s an experience that not only captures memories but celebrates the unique connection between horse and rider in the most beautiful way.
Would you ever do a horse and rider session with your equine partner? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experiences!
