A Horse & Rider Session That Earned a 10/10
As a Wisconsin horse photographer, I photograph a lot of horse and rider sessions—but this one with Emily and her POA gelding, The Candy Man (aka Elliot), just felt special from the start!
We photographed this session right on their small farm just outside Birnamwood, and it honestly couldn’t have been a better setting. Woods that opened into soft meadow areas, mowed paths weaving through the property, and that quiet, tucked-away feel that makes everything slow down in the best way. There’s even a creek back in the trees, but between the fading light and next-level mosquitos, we called it before heading that far. And truly? What we captured without it was more than enough!
Emily + Elliot
Emily is the kind of person you feel instantly comfortable around. Warm, genuine, and easy to be around—the kind of sincerity you don’t have to question. That same energy carries straight into how she works with Elliot. Their connection is calm and confident, built on trust, and it shows in every interaction.
Watching them together brought back a memory from years ago, when I photographed Emily showing at the Wisconsin Valley Fair in Wausau. Back then, she was riding her horse Duchess and absolutely holding her own in the arena. Every pattern, every class—she showed up ready. It was clear then, and it’s still true now: Emily isn’t just a strong rider, she’s a really good human!
And here’s the part that still blows my mind—Emily is only 16, and Elliot is just 2. Yet they move together like they’ve been partners for years. No rushing. No tension. Just steady, quiet confidence from both of them.
From Front Yard to Golden Hour
We started the session right in the front yard, believe it or not. A large willow had recently come down, and instead of clearing it right away, it created a surprisingly beautiful natural backdrop. From there, we moved out back where their property borders public land, giving us wide open space and great light. We worked through a few outfit changes, kept things relaxed, and finished the session in their outdoor arena as the sun dipped low.
Golden hour, soft light, and a horse and rider completely in sync.
One of those sessions that reminds you why simple, real moments matter most!
Thinking About Booking Your Own Horse & Rider Session?
If you’ve been thinking about booking with a Wisconsin horse photographer and want something that actually reflects you and your horse, that’s exactly what these sessions are built for.
They’re relaxed. Thoughtful. Centered around the way you already work together — not overly posed, not overcomplicated.
You show up prepared. I guide you through the rest so it feels natural and comfortable the whole time.
If that sounds like your kind of session, I’d love to talk through what you have in mind.
Want to see more horse and rider portrait sessions? Take a look here.
