Christmas Mini // Tollwood Photo Day
I had driven by Tollwood many times, and somehow had never even known it was there. When I pulled up to the driveway I immediately knew that it would be the perfect spot for pictures, with each side lined with entangled and ancient trees, the late afternoon light filtering perfectly through the branches. The rest of the barn did not disappoint either, as I walked past stall after stall of beautiful horses to meet my first model of the day!
Katelyn was busy grooming her fluffy quarter horse gelding, Dexter, when I arrived. She was laid back and easy going and Dexter was friendly and eagerly searching for cookies. Dexter was only 3 years old and a total character during our session but honestly he was such a trooper for still being a baby and I could tell he had a great work ethic! Katelyn and I chatted over our shared love of Quarter Horses and their awesome versatility and ever willingness to try. Dexter is certainly joining my list of favourite quarter horses (already up there is Diesel and Qbert)! I hope I get to work with this pair again and can’t wait to see where they end up!
“i love how hard he tries to please and how much personality he has!”
Next was Jenna and Sam! Sam was a totally handsome thoroughbred, with a bright chestnut coat and flashy white markings. They had been a partnership for 4 years and in that time they have gone from knowing nothing about each other and competing in hunters to being a strong partnership that excels in dressage! Jenna and I related with each other over our University experience, both being in our 4th year and feeling the pulls and stresses of real life, leaving less and less time for riding and hobbies! She reminded me a lot of myself, and Sam reminded me a lot of my own quirky gelding; their connection seemed equally as strong and it was clear their understanding of each other ran deep! I hope to maybe run into them at a dressage show this summer!
“i didnt actually know anything about him before he showed up but everyone was immediately drawn to his personality.”
Taylor and Aria were the third pair in front of my camera and both of them showed up ready to model! I am always struck by a pretty grey mare and Aria did not disappoint. She showed up with her ears forward, model face on and bridle shined to perfection and Taylor posed effortlessly in front of the camera as if she had modelled before! Taylor has owned Aria for about 3 years, the longest she has ever owned a horse and the pair have progressed considerably in that time, now competing at third level dressage! Their relationship reminded me of old friends, they didn’t take each other too seriously and communicated in an effortless sort of way.
“she really is the best thing that’s happened to me and i consider myself so lucky to have her in my life.”
Finally, Piper and Ginger were the last session in the beautiful golden hour lighting! Piper’s story with Ginger really struck me and in many ways reminded me of my story with horse ownership. Ginger was her first horse and she bought her 7 years ago, and did everything with her. Having bought my first horse at a similar age I relate well to the level of excitement and awe you feel to finally own your own horse. Their journey together has not been easy though and Ginger faced many health issues, and finally had to be retired this past year. It is so obvious how deeply Piper cares about Ginger and the love between girl and horse is ever so clear with this pair. There really is something so special about your first horse, especially if they have been with you as you transitioned from child to young adult, they are your friend, your partner and your ever trusted confidant. I felt so honoured to get to capture this season in Piper and Ginger’s partnership, one which is so special.
“i have had ginger for seven years and we have grown together over this time.”
