Laura & Drake
San Diego, CA
There’s something truly magical about the bond between a horse and rider — a quiet understanding that speaks without words, a rhythm in their movement that tells its own story. And when that bond is framed by golden hour light and the serene beauty of Artesian Valley Farm, it becomes unforgettable. This equestrian session with Laura and her majestic Friesian, Drake (whose name fittingly translates to "dragon" 🐉), was not only a creative dream come true but also part of a mentoring session with the incredibly talented Ashleigh Magnus Photography. It was an inspiring experience from start to finish — one filled with storytelling, emotion, and ethereal light.
The Heart of the Session: Laura & Drake 💫
From the moment we arrived, it was clear how deeply Laura adores Drake. Their connection radiated through every quiet glance and every soft nudge. Drake, with his sleek, flowing mane and commanding presence, looked like a mythical creature brought to life — equal parts elegance and power. Together, Laura and Drake created the kind of harmony that makes photographing horse and rider such a rewarding experience. Whether Laura was walking beside him, riding through open space, or sharing a still moment in the shade, every frame told a story of trust and love.
1. Paddock Serenity 🌿
We began the session in the paddock, where the golden sun gently filtered through the trees. The paddock offered a peaceful and intimate setting that let us ease into the session. The lighting here was soft and glowy, adding warmth to the quiet moments between Laura and Drake. The fencing gave us leading lines that framed the two of them perfectly, and the natural greenery surrounding them gave the photos a timeless, organic feel.
2. Elegance in the Arena 🏇
Next, we moved into the arena, where the backdrop shifted from serene nature to a more polished equestrian atmosphere. The structured lines of the arena allowed us to capture more structured photos. These images felt bold and powerful — highlighting Drake’s strength and stature, and Laura’s elegance.
3. Behind the Stalls – A Quiet Retreat 🐾
Our third location, tucked behind the stalls, gave the session a more deserty, behind-the-scenes tone. This was where we found some of the most candid moments — Laura stroking Drake’s neck, adjusting his bridle, and stealing a few quiet breaths in the cool shade. The smoothness of the building, the grass, and the dappled lighting added depth and character. These were the images that felt personal — the “in between” moments that truly define the soul of equestrian life.
4. Golden Dreams in the Field 🌾☀️
We finished the session in a wide-open field, bathed in the golden light of sunset. This was where the magic truly happened. The grass and plants making the area feel as if we just left the country, and the sky glowed in soft amber and rose hues. These shots had a dreamlike, almost storybook quality — like a fairytale unfolding in real-time like Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones. It was the perfect finale to a beautifully diverse session.
Laura and Drake’s session at Artesian Valley Farm is one I’ll carry with me for a long time. It reminded me of the power of intentional storytelling, of slowing down and observing the bonds that matter most. From the elegance of the arena to the golden serenity of the field, every setting offered its own mood — like chapters in a storybook, each one revealing a new layer of their relationship.
If you’ve ever considered an equestrian session of your own — whether with a horse you’ve loved for years or one you’ve just begun to connect with — know this: the beauty of your bond deserves to be preserved, to be celebrated, and to be told in golden light. 🌅🐎
