Equine Portraiture Session // HRA ADIB SHATIR

As I write this blog, I have about 50000 things on my to-do list for the next two weeks, from sessions to school to Christmas shopping! I know that I’m not the only one feeling the stress right now, with the holidays fast approaching and many deadlines coming due. I hope that looking at pretty pictures of ponies can bring you the same sense of joy and relaxation that it is currently bringing me! If there is one thing that is going to help all of us get through covid 19 and a generally hectic and crazy life, it is ponies!

So who is the handsome grey below you ask? The one and only HRA Adib Shatir, or just Shatir! I got to photograph this stunning grey Arabian in October for his delightful human Gaby and we had so much fun capturing not only his dashing good looks but also quirky and friendly personality.

“when i first rode him he went to the far end of the arena and stood there quietly just taking my sadness and anger and grounding it. he was mine within a week and he helped me regain self-confidence. actually, we helped each other.”

Gaby spoke so fondly of her wonderful Shatir and it was clear that the pair shared a strong friendship. There was a familiarity and a flow to their connection and interaction that made it seem as if they had known each other much longer than just a few years. I felt so honoured to get to capture these images of Shatir and to attempt to capture all the magic and joy that he has brought Gaby. She said that she would certainly keep him forever and I’m glad I got to “freeze” him in this moment of time for her.