Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to work with the British Horse Society (BHS) on their Spirit film project, capturing footage at Hemps Green Equestrian Centre. It was a day filled with precision, collaboration, and an appreciation for the beauty and discipline of horse riding. Working closely with Lisa, the owner of Hemps Green, and the BHS marketing team, we directed riders and horses through a variety of disciplines to get the shots we needed.
Planning and Execution: A Collaborative Effort with Hemps Green
Equestrian photography and videography present unique challenges. Unlike static subjects, horses can be unpredictable, and every shot requires careful coordination between rider, animal, and photographer. At Hemps Green, our goal was to showcase the connection between horse and rider while maintaining the high standards of care and professionalism that both BHS and the centre uphold.
The riders we worked with were a mix of experienced staff from Hemps Green and clients of the centre itself. They varied in both age and experience, which added authenticity to the shoot and allowed us to capture a range of skill levels in action. From preparation and grooming to dressage, showjumping, and cross-country, every scene was carefully planned to highlight different aspects of the equestrian world.
The Equipment That Made It Happen
On the day, I used my Sony A7IV mirrorless camera paired with the DJI RS2 Gimbal, ensuring smooth, cinematic motion in every shot. For the majority of the footage, I relied on my Sigma 56mm f1.4 lens, which has become a staple in my kit for its sharpness and ability to beautifully isolate subjects. For wider shots, I switched to the Sigma 35mm f1.4 DG DN Art lens, which allowed me to capture more of the environment without distorting the perspective.
The combination of these tools allowed me to work efficiently while maintaining a lightweight setup—crucial for an on-the-move shoot like this one. The DJI RS2 provided the stability needed to track horses in motion, whether they were trotting, cantering, or soaring over jumps.
Prioritising Safety and Natural Expression
One of the biggest challenges in equestrian photography and videography is ensuring the safety and comfort of both horse and rider. A stressed horse or tense rider can completely change the dynamic of an image. Throughout the shoot, we paid close attention to the horses’ body language, particularly focusing on keeping their ears forward in as many shots as possible. This small but vital detail ensured that the final footage reflected a positive, engaged, and willing expression—something that’s essential for showcasing the harmony between rider and horse.
Additionally, I made sure to maintain a comfortable distance when filming to avoid spooking the horses. The Sigma 56mm f1.4 was invaluable in this regard, as it allowed me to get tight, intimate shots without needing to be too close to the action.
Highlights of the Day at Hemps Green
There were several standout moments during the shoot. The grooming and preparation scenes captured the care and dedication that goes into horse ownership, from plaiting manes to cleaning tack. The dressage sequences showcased the elegance and precision of well-trained horses, moving in perfect sync with their riders. Showjumping and cross-country brought the energy, with dynamic shots of horses clearing jumps and galloping through the beautiful Hemps Green landscape.
One of my favourite shots of the day was a slow-motion sequence of a horse landing after a jump, the dust kicking up beneath its hooves as the rider maintained perfect form. These are the moments that make equestrian videography so rewarding—capturing the raw power and grace of the sport in a way that resonates with viewers.
Post-Production: Bringing the Footage to Life
After the shoot, I spent time reviewing and refining the footage to ensure the final edits truly reflected the vision of the Spirit film. Colour grading was a key step—enhancing natural tones to highlight the rich greens of the fields and the warm hues of the horses’ coats. Stabilisation adjustments were minimal thanks to the DJI RS2, but a few tweaks in post ensured the smoothest possible final product.
Final Thoughts
Working with BHS and Hemps Green Equestrian Centre was an incredible experience, not only for the opportunity to create stunning visuals but also for the chance to highlight the values of equestrian sports—partnership, dedication, and respect for the horse.
As a photographer and videographer, projects like this reinforce why I love what I do. Capturing these moments isn’t just about getting the perfect shot—it’s about telling a story, evoking emotion, and showcasing the best of the equestrian world.
For anyone looking to document equestrian events, my key takeaway is simple: understand your subject, respect the animals, and anticipate the moments that will make the biggest impact. With the right approach and the right gear, you’ll capture more than just images—you’ll capture the spirit of the sport.
