5 Tips for a Stunning Winter Horse & Rider Portrait Session

There’s something beautiful about winter—the quiet hush of snow, the soft light filtering through a frosty sky, and the deep, rich colors of the season.

If you’re considering a winter horse and rider portrait session, preparation is key to making the most of the unique beauty of this season.

Here are my top 5 tips to ensure your winter session is warm, comfortable, and breathtakingly gorgeous.

1. Grooming: A Clean Horse Without the Water

Winter temperatures can make traditional grooming methods tricky, but that doesn’t mean your horse can’t shine in their winter portraits. No one wants manure stains on a white coat!

Waterless shampoos are a lifesaver! These products clean and condition your horse’s coat without the chill of a full bath. Pair this with a good curry comb and a soft brush or old towel to bring out the natural luster of their winter coat. A well-groomed horse with a rich, fluffy coat creates stunning contrast against the snowy backdrop. My personal favorite? Elite Equine Evolution Waterless Argan Oil Horse Shampoo

2. Be Flexible and Have Fun

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so be ready to embrace the unexpected—whether it’s a soft snowfall or a burst of golden light breaking through the clouds. Bring along a sense of adventure and an open mind.

Those spontaneous moments often make for the most memorable images. When you book your session, we’ll pencil in multiple dates and times for your session to make sure we have beautiful snow and tolerable temps!

3. Dress for the Weather: Stay Warm, Look Amazing

Your comfort is just as important as your style. Start with a warm baselayer—think thermal tops and leggings—so you can enjoy the session without shivering.

Hand warmers tucked into your gloves or pockets are also a must-have! If it’s really chilly, we’ll shoot one or two poses and then pull a heavier coat on or jump in a running vehicle to warm up before we set up the next shot. (My current favorite baselayer came from Sierra.)

4. Jewel Tones for You and Your Horse

There’s nothing like deep, jewel-toned colors to complement the rich winter coats of horses. Think emerald greens, sapphire blues, and deep burgundies. These colors stand out beautifully against snowy landscapes and highlight your horse’s coat.

When we meet to plan your session, we’ll talk about specific colors that look best with your horse’s color.

5. Embrace Winter Western Fashion

Winter is the perfect time to play with layers and textures in your wardrobe. Wild rags, chaps, and cozy vests are functional and stylish additions that bring depth to your photos. Don’t be afraid to mix practicality with style—you can look amazing and stay toasty at the same time. Sarah over at Big Sky Wild Rags has a beautiful selection: https://www.instagram.com/bigskywildragsco/?hl=en

Bonus Tips

*While you’re bundling up, don’t forget about your equine partner. A little extra warm-up time before the session can help keep your horse comfortable and relaxed. And if you’re using props or adding anything new to their tack, take a few minutes to let them get used to it beforehand.

*Bring your pup in for some fun too! Again, make sure this isn’t new on the day of your session. Fido needs to be well-behaved to keep everyone safe at your photoshoot!

*Winter is also a great time for some images of your animals at liberty. Fresh powder under flying hooves? Yes please!

Winter is a wonderful time to capture the bond between you and your horse. With a little preparation and the right mindset, your session will be as memorable as the photos themselves. Ready to create something amazing? Let’s make it happen!