Equestrian Farewell Session / Lauren & Sailor / Hillside Acres in Millarville
I approach each and every session with a certain weight and gravity. Despite the fact that we are laughing and having fun creating beautiful moments, in the back of my mind I am always aware of the fact that one day these photos will represent someones fondest memories of a friend they have had to say goodbye to. But there are some sessions where this fact is not just in the back of my mind, but in the forefront of everyone present. And this session with Lauren and Sailor at Hillside Acres was unfortunately one of those days.
Lauren’s sister had reached out to me just a few days earlier with the terrible but beautiful request to help capture one of Sailor’s final days and immortalize the connection shared between him and Lauren. I am always so heartbroken to receive these request’s, but also so grateful and honoured that I am trusted with capturing something so precious, and relieved to know that at least they will have these precious memories to treasure after having to say goodbye to something so dear.
The bond between Lauren and Sailor was as clear as a reflection on perfectly still waters, and while we were able to laugh and smile as she shared stories of their many years together, a heaviness hung in the air as we knew what was to come. Lauren and Sailor grew up together, serving as each other’s constant in life as they navigated many trials and triumphs, from working tirelessly to save him from colic over a decade ago, to moving across the country together and teaching eachother so much.
“He’s been my steady, reliable friend since the moment I brought him home. He’s my shoulder to cry on (literally) and my listening ear - That’s what I’ll miss the most about him.”
- Lauren
When I think back on this session, the one moment that sticks out above all the rest was just a quiet moment between Lauren and her steady friend. Lauren had asked me to try and keep it light, for some last happy memories and photos, but in this moment I could see the gravity of the coming reality sink in. She stood by Sailor’s shoulder and ran her fingers through his mane. Such a simple gesture which I’m sure was shared between them countless times, but there was so much said in those few seconds. A moment of peace and gratitude for all the years shared together, and a beautiful moment that I felt so honoured to witness and capture. In those moments I truly wish I could freeze time for my clients, beyond just a photograph.
