Photography Classes / Equestrian Portraits

Intermediate Group · 4 max

Equestrian Portraits

A half-day location workshop at the stables next door, covering how to create striking horse portraits with a simple setup. The techniques transfer directly to any subject on location.

The studio is located at Blackburn House, which is surrounded by the grounds of Blackburn Equestrian Centre. The stables are a one-minute walk. This is not a class we added to the programme as an afterthought - it grew directly from working on location with horses as part of our own photography practice.

The approach we use is deliberately simple: no tripod, no studio lights, no complicated setup. What we teach here applies equally well to dogs, people, or any other subject on location, so the skills are genuinely transferable beyond horses.

How the Workshop Runs:

Part 1 - Studio briefing
Introduction and technical setup
A short indoor session covering what to expect, how to approach the horses, the lighting conditions we will be working with, and the camera settings and lens choices that work best in this environment.
Part 2 - On location at the stables
Approximately 2.5 hours shooting
The main session. We work with the horses in the yard and surrounding areas. Most of the time is spent on your feet. The workshop runs in all but the most severe weather, so dress for the outdoors and be prepared to get a little dirty.
Part 3 - Back in the studio
Post-processing - approximately 1.5 hours
We return to the studio to work through the images in Lightroom and Photoshop, covering selection, basic processing, and the finishing techniques specific to equestrian and location work.
Requirements
Experience You need to be comfortable operating your camera without assistance. This is not a class for beginners - if you are not confident with your camera settings, start with our Digital Photography Intro class first.
Gear Camera with a lens in the range of 70–135mm (full frame equivalent). Pack light - no tripod or flash equipment needed.
What to wear Dress for the outdoors. The stables are a working yard - boots or sturdy shoes are recommended, and be prepared for the possibility of getting a little muddy.
Price £290
Format Group workshop
Duration Half day
Participants 4 max
Location Blackburn House stables (1 min from studio)
Dates Saturday 26th July 2026
Get in touch to book

Prices include VAT. Full payment required at time of booking.