Northern Clove Equestrian
god forbid that i should go to any heaven in which there are no horses
-R.B. Cunninghame-graham
Horses carry a beauty that is ethereal. They are sunlight glinting off of strong muscles and flowing manes, kind eyes and soft muzzles breathing gently into your hair. They are hoofbeats resounding upon the grass and into our souls.
For such a creature to bond with us humans is a bit of magic, the last remnants of a fairy tale coming true. Telling the story of you and your heart horse, crafting art that celebrates the bond between you, is one of my greatest joys.
the planning
We will plan your session around what you are looking for. Whether your horse is at your property or boarded, whether you want black background images or a natural setting, we will plan a session where your horse is safe and comfortable.
One of my newborn clients told me how her daughter was still timid around their horses, but she would read in a tree and they would come visit her. I immediately knew I wanted to photograph that, so we set up a session based on that story.
Even if you feel like your life is pretty normal, I promise there are magical moments to be found. You have a story to tell, and I would love to help you find it.
Planning your session includes outfits as well. I know this can be an intimidating part of getting your pictures taken, so I’m here to help as much as you’d like. Colors, textures – all those details really make your photos outstanding, and I love helping bring it all together.
the session
The energy at the end of a session always leaves me smiling – often I’m muddy from walking through fields, or picking bits of hay out of my hair, or fishing leftover carrots out of my pockets – and I love taking a moment to breathe in the fresh air and reflect on the fun we had. My hope is that you will have had just as much fun, and that every time you see your photos, you will remember what that felt like.
That’s the reason photos need to be seen – to bring us back to those moments of joy, to show us that life looks as beautiful as it feels. After your session I’ll help you choose how many and which images you’d like, and will help you get them off your phone and out where you can enjoy them.
“My photos of Genesis from Sam are gorgeous.
She knows how to capture everything. I just love them!”
–marilyn
“Sam puts together a scene instead of just a picture.
I look at my photos and they all seem to tell a story. She has a knack for choosing great candid photos, the ones I would choose myself. The ones that show my family’s true character and personalities.”
– nicole
what to expect
Generally I plan outdoor sessions for about an hour or two before sunset to get that dreamy, golden light.
I travel within an hour from Escanaba for equine photo sessions, and while I try to bring an assistant along for these, it’s helpful if you have an extra person on hand who can either help handle horses, or work to get ears forward.
We will work through a variety of images based on what you are looking for, from fine art poses of your horse on his own, to the bond between you and the story you share.
“My treasures do not clink together or glitter. They gleam in the sun and neigh in the night.”
arabian proverb
the products
Each of my packages comes with a select number of digital files – I want you to have these for safekeeping, and printing on your own.
I also know it’s hard to find the time to print your photos, and that deciding which images to print and how they will look best can be overwhelming. That’s why each of my packages also comes with either print credit or select products, with more options available.
I’ve curated a collection of professional products that offer superior quality and handmade craftsmanship. Each piece is truly a work of art.
From barnwood frames built from barns and fences in lower Michigan, to rustic wood prints, to keepsake books with all the work done for you, we will tell your story in a way that you will see and celebrate every day.
“A horse is a thing of beauty… none will tire of looking at him as long as he displays himself in his splendor.”
-Xenophon
Equestrian Pricing
Equine sessions are booked in with a deposit of $350. This holds your spot on my calendar, and goes toward whichever package you choose.
Packages begin at $650, and the rest of this base package is due by the day of your session.
Once you view your photos, you can either choose the images that come with that package, or upgrade to one that includes more if you would like to.
