Take Better Horsey Pictures: Instantly!

It’s showtime again, and if you want to capture the best horsey images this season we have some tips from one of the world’s top-rated equestrian photographers.

Over the years, Dimitar Hristov’s diverse equine images have graced the finest horse magazines (including an eight-page feature in the UAE’s Equestrio) and been published in a series of impressive coffee table books, yet, he says his favourite breed to photograph will always be the Arabian.“They’re wilder than most other breeds and just seem to emit this energy and strength… some are even vain and quite clearly pose,” he says.

“For me, the horse is the only living ‘mythical creature,’ and in their purest form, they are the epitome of freedom and strength.”

If you want to capture your horse’s ‘mythical’ side this winter, here’s Dimitar’s top tips:

#1. The most important thing you can do BEFORE you photograph a horse is to watch it first. Take time and observe its behaviour and movement, through this you will get a feel for where the best shot is.

Horses are like humans, everyone has their own personality! And when I shoot, I try to capture the frame that is most characteristic of my model. It would be absurd if the animal is calm by nature trying to make a dynamic frame and vice versa.

Get acquainted with the animal, let it get used to you and treat you as a friend, not as a short-lived intruder with vague intentions. Make the shooting process a pleasure for both parties.

#2. My shots usually take a few hours to capture. Given the temperatures in the UAE, this could be really uncomfortable, so I suggest a sun umbrella; for you, NOT the horse!

#3. Another tip for UAE shooting is to work when the sunlight is very strong. Use the edge of a building to create a natural softbox. I personally like to use the edge of stables. Remember, it’s really important to place your model on the boundary between light and shadow!

To see more of Dimitar's pictures visit here: https://www.54ka.org/website/projects/horses/index.php