Celebrating Senior Year with Fera, Onyx, and Rusty at Princess Place Preserve

Some sessions just hit you right in the heart, and this one was definitely one of them. I had the joy of photographing local equestrian high school senior, Fera, along with her two senior horses, Onyx and Rusty, during a recent equine and equestrian photography session at the always-stunning Princess Place Preserve.

We were lucky with the most beautiful overcast afternoon with the rain holding off just long enough for us to finish everything up. This gave us soft, even light under some of the dreamiest oak trees Florida has to offer. If you’ve ever been to Princess Place Preserve, in Flagler County, you know it’s one of those spots where you can feel the history and “old Florida” in every scene. It was the perfect location for this session as Fera and her family really wanted it to have an old Florida vibe full of love for the horses who have been part of Fera’s life story.

Fera brought three different looks to her session. She started with a western-inspired duster jacket , followed it up with a stylish denim vest look paired with her graduation cap and gown, and ended in a romantic, full-length corset-style dress that made her look straight out of a historic romance novel.

But the real stars of the session were Onyx and Rusty—two sweet, senior horses who have clearly shared countless memories with Fera over the years. It was obvious from the moment we started that this session wasn’t just about marking her graduation. It was about honoring the horses who helped her grow up and who gave her confidence and community over the years.

During our equine portrait session, we focused on capturing those quiet in-between moments… the ones that feel like home to horse people. The way Fera gently held Rusty's lead rope, how Onyx would rest his head near her shoulder, and the calm presence they brought to every pose. These are the kinds of images that matter most… the ones that feel like the relationship you’ve built over a lifetime.

At our viewing and ordering appointment, Fera and her family chose a combination of her absolute favorite images to keep forever. They selected digital files and professional prints that will live on their walls, and we also designed her graduation announcements together so she could celebrate her senior year with her family and friends.

If you're a senior (or the parent of one) and you're thinking about a session that includes the horses who shaped your journey, let’s talk. I specialize in equine photography in St. Augustine, FL, and I love helping horsewomen turn their memories into timeless, heirloom-quality art. Whether it’s a full custom session or something focused on your graduating senior and their horse, I’m here to make it easy and unforgettable.

Here’s to the horses who raised us, the seniors who are moving on, and the images that help us hold onto it all.

Want to learn more about booking your own horse photography session in St. Augustine, FL? Visit FastHorsePhotography.com to get started.