In the Spotlight: Choosing the Perfect Time for Your Equestrian Senior Portraits

When planning the time of year to schedule your equestrian senior portraits in Florida, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

1. Weather: Florida's climate can be quite hot, humid, and as much as I hate to say it… downright buggy, particularly during the summer months. Consider scheduling your equestrian senior portraits during a time of year when the weather is more comfortable, such as the fall, winter, or spring. This will help ensure that you and your horse are comfortable during the photo shoot and prevent excessive sweating or discomfort.

2. Horse Appearance Preference: Consider how you best want your horse represented in your equestrian senior portraits. Is there a time of year that they look their best? Coat condition, shedding, and health and body condition will all play a role in your equine photographer's ability to showcase your horse’s muscular structure and physical attributes. 

3. Lighting: The lighting conditions can greatly impact the quality of your senior portraits. In Florida, the summer months tend to have harsh, direct sunlight, which can create unflattering shadows and make it difficult to achieve a balanced exposure. Make sure that your equine photographer has experience using artificial lighting to create soft true color beautiful images REGARDLESS of available light. You can also opt for a time of year when the lighting is softer and more flattering, such as early morning or late afternoon during the cooler months.

4. Seasonal Considerations: Depending on the look you want to achieve in your equestrian senior portraits, you may want to consider the different seasons in Florida. For instance, if you desire vibrant greenery and blooming flowers in the background, scheduling your shoot during the blooming of spring Azaleas can be ideal. On the other hand, if you prefer a more rustic or autumnal backdrop, fall can be a great choice as even here in Florida we get soft muted colors to offset the summertime radioactive greens.

5. Availability: Determine the availability of the professional horse photographer of your choice who specializes in equestrian photography in your area. It's important to book a photographer well in advance to secure their services during your desired time frame.

6. Horse's Comfort: Consider your horse's well-being during the shoot. Take into account their tolerance for heat and humidity, as well as any specific needs or limitations they might have. Ensure that the location and time of day chosen for the portraits will be comfortable for your horse and not put undue stress on them. 

7. Personal Preferences: Ultimately, consider your personal preferences and vision for your equestrian senior portraits. Think about your style, theme, and overall aesthetic you want to achieve. If you have a particular location or background in mind, ensure it aligns with the season you choose for the shoot.

8. Senior Year Timeline: Consider any deadlines related to your graduation announcements, yearbook submissions, or other requirements. Make sure to schedule your equestrian senior portraits with enough time to receive the finished images and meet these deadlines. Don’t forget to consider any important senior year events including exams, college tours, and fun! Plan your equestrian senior portraits for a time that doesn’t interfere with these important obligations. 

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about the best time of year to schedule your equestrian senior portraits in Florida. Remember, every equestrian’s circumstances and preferences are unique, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Take the time to consider your needs, the points above and consult with your equine and equestrian photographer to determine the best time to schedule your equestrian senior portraits. 

Reach out to Cara at Fast Horse Photography to book your equestrian senior portraits.