How to Choose Locations for Model Horse photo Shoots!
Hello everyone!
A few weeks back, I did a poll on YouTube and asked you guys what blog post you wanted to see that week. At the time the winning vote was for an equine artist reference book review (link to that post at the end of today :) ), yet although the poll is over, we have had a lot more votes. I’m still inspired about the topic so today we are talking about how to choose locations for you model horse photo shoots!
To make this easy, I will divide everything into sub categories: foreground, background, spotlight, texture, and placement, as well as ambient, chromatic, environment, and distraction. Let’s get started!
Foreground
The foreground is what appears directly in front of the viewer. When looking at photo locations, identify what’s in the foreground. In these examples the piece of wood and mound of dirt are closest to the viewer. Other examples of foreground in miniature photography can be grasses, edges of boulders, natural separation such as distinct lines in terrain or shadow (example three), or simply the ground. Make sure the foreground is not in the way, but having interest in those areas can make pictures more fun.
Background
The background shouldn’t be too distracting. You can opt to have it be blurry or in focus, but make sure it fits into your scene and still lets the model horse shine. (Unless the model is acting as foreground and the accent is on the background.) Linear backgrounds are also interesting. (where you have multiple stripes, layers, of background.)
Spotlight
Is there anything stealing the spotlight? Avoid things in the environment that could potentially ruin the shot, or find ways to adapt around them!
Texture and Chromatic
Ohhh, this is a fun one! I love textured pictures. Look for grasses, rocks, trees and branches, even water with different textures. Ensure the textures match and aren’t overwhelming for your eye. The chromatic of pictures is important. This example is leaning towards purple. Model and scenery chromatic discrepancy can throw off the viewer. It’s something to play around with and experiment on.
Placement
Where should I place my model? Rocks, logs, paths, grassy or mossy areas make perfect podiums for model horses. Be on the look out for statement pieces in the environment when searching for a location.
Ambient and Distraction
Where is the focus of your image? Find an ambient suitable for the model, that lets you focus, sets the atmosphere, and inflicts the emotion you desire to transmit.
Environment
Last but not least, look at where you are. Is it safe for you as the photographer to take pictures there? Do you feel comfortable in that environment? And is it suitable for the kind of pictures you want to take?
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Photography is an art expressed individually. You know what you want to create, and the location of your model horse photo shoots should reflect your vision. Be on the lookout for statement pieces, interesting foreground and background, accessible places, chromatic, and a suitable ambient. Don’t be disappointed if the right location is not the first one you visit. Keep it in mind for future photos and keep looking until you find something suitable. Don’t search for perfection as there’s no such thing, and if you find something promising, take a picture. No one says it is your final shot.
Thank you for reading, I hope this article was helpful and gave some guidance when choosing model horse photography locations!
Equine Artist Reference Books post: https://naturefoxes.com/blog/3-books-for-equine-artist-referenceinspiration-model-horse-artist-equine-artist-horse-art
Other posts: https://naturefoxes.com/blog
Shop: https://naturefoxes.com/shop
YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@naturefoxes_IrinaS
