Savannah & Gladstone
Thermal, CA
There’s something truly magical about capturing the relationship between a horse and their rider—the unspoken bond, the trust, and the quiet moments of connection. I had another mentoring with Ashleigh Magnus Photography, this time for a session that combined both a horse and rider session and a black background equestrian session at one of the most breathtaking locations I’ve ever visited: Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California.
A Stunning Backdrop for an Unforgettable Session
This was my first time at Desert International Horse Park, and to say I was in awe would be an understatement. Nestled in the heart of the California desert, this venue is a premier equestrian destination, hosting some of the most prestigious competitions in the country. But beyond its competitive atmosphere, there’s an undeniable beauty to this place—especially at sunset. As the golden light stretched across the desert landscape, it created the perfect, dreamy setting for our session.
Meet the Stars: Savannah & Gladstone
Our models for the day were Savannah & Gladstone, and from the very first moment, their energy was infectious. They were the kind of pair that made everyone around them smile—full of joy, playfulness, and an unbreakable bond that was simply heartwarming to witness.
Gladstone, a handsome and expressive horse, made sure we all knew how much he loved Savannah. At every opportunity, he showered her with tickles and kisses, nuzzling her with that unmistakable horsey affection. Savannah, in turn, radiated happiness, laughing at his antics and sharing moments that were so genuine and beautiful, they practically photographed themselves.
The Art of a Horse & Rider Session
Capturing the relationship between a horse and rider is so much more than just posing—it’s about documenting the connection between them. Watching Savannah and Gladstone interact naturally was a reminder of why these sessions are so special. The small moments—the way her hand instinctively found his mane, the way he leaned into her touch, the way they moved together in sync—those are the moments that truly tell their story.
Ashleigh’s expertise in guiding them through the session was inspiring to watch. She knew exactly how to create an environment where both Savannah and Gladstone felt comfortable and relaxed, allowing their natural bond to shine. From joyful action shots to soft, intimate portraits, every frame captured the depth of their partnership.
A Striking Black Background Session
After spending time capturing their playful energy outdoors, we shifted to the black background session—and wow, did Gladstone shine! There’s something breathtaking about stripping away distractions and focusing solely on the beauty of a horse’s form and expression. Against the rich black backdrop, every detail stood out—the elegant arch of his neck, the glimmer in his eye, the powerful yet graceful build of his body.
Black background portraits are a true art form, requiring the perfect balance of lighting, angles, and positioning to highlight the horse’s best features. Watching Ashleigh work her magic in this setting was an incredible learning experience. She carefully adjusted the lighting and guided Gladstone into poses that showcased his strength and character, resulting in timeless, regal portraits that any horse owner would cherish forever.
