On a late spring evening with a cool breeze helping keep the temperatures cool for the season, I had the pleasure of photographing Amy and her young mare, Finn at their home. This session was particularly special for Amy, as her love for horses has been a lifelong journey, starting with a promise made during a significant move in her childhood.
Here's part of Amy's story- "When I was finishing up 5th grade, my parents told me we were moving to Albuquerque, NM. True to my nature, I agreed on one promise: I get a horse, every little girl's dream. My parents, playing along, agreed. On the last day of school, I said goodbye to my friends and we were off." Isn't it every little girl's dream to own a horse, and to find a way to get their parents' to agree?
"From there the love and dedication to the animals grew- i was always riding, grooming, feeding, you name it. " Well, fast forward 25 years, and Amy won a portrait session through a silent auction, starting our relationship. After her initial session in 2021, she wanted to feature the horses that have grown up in her barn on a wall at her work office. Her one requirement was to have all of the horses who she has had be featured with a black background portrait. We selected the opening to her shop/garage that would give us enough space and a great opportunity to darken the background.
This session was special because it was all about showcasing the love Amy has and the quiet conversations between her and her horse. Amy has always been wonderful to work with, and this time was even better. We had plenty of laughs, conversation, and even a comment of "I'm holding her head up!" The soft light of the early evening made it easy to capture images that would definitely fit the bill for Amy's office.
This beautiful mare is Finn. According to Amy "Finn is the baby of the group, but you wouldn't know it by her size and demeanor. She is an old soul and the only one in the barn who can grow a mane and tail! She is the first mare I chose to buy, and I was told it would be best if she chose me back. I don't know what I did, but it feels like she has chosen me too. " This sweet mare was unphased with the breeze that was blowing her mane every which way. At one point she even had the wind blow her hair, where we both commented, "is it natural, or is it Neighbelline?!"
Amy says "I have always wanted to do portraits of my four-legged family and after winning the session with Joylynne, i don't know how i lived without them. It such a beautiful way to honor and remember such graceful animals that give you everything and ask for nothing...maybe a treat or two!"
I am always grateful for the opportunity with such wonderful clients and their horses. Capturing these special moments with Amy and her horse Finn was truly an honor. If you’d like to honor your relationship with your beloved pets or horses like Amy did, click on the contact link below or call me now at 806-535-1298.
