10/01/2011
Have a Handler
It is helpful to have a third person to get the animals attention after you get him "set up" and ready to shoot so his ears will be up, maybe the nostrils flared a little instead of limp and relaxed. An odd sound or the sight of something surprising helps. Maybe bringing another horse into view, opening an umbrella, releasing a spring-loaded steel measuring tape. Whatever works? The element of surprise does it. You don't really want to scare him, or he'll move out of position.
It goes without saying that you want the equine clean, clipped and put a LITTLE baby oil or Vaseline on his muzzle and around the eyes. Don't make him greasy looking, but it helps make the skin look dark and velvety. Have a good fitting halter and a lead shank or very neat lead rope without bulky snaps or loose ends dangling. Use fly spray if necessary to keep him from stomping or swishing his tail. Choose an uncluttered background, and one that has good contrast to your horse's color. A black Stallion against dark trees will be hard to see, or a palomino against snow, etc. Using a flash on your camera will bring out highlight in the coat, which is especially important on dark-colored or black horses. It will also put a little highlight in the eye, which enhances his facial expression. Avoid having distracting objects, such as fence posts or telephone poles coming out of his back, etc. The handler should stay back or to the side in such a way that his or her hands or body are not in front of or showing behind parts of the animal's body if you do not wish to have that person be part of the picture
