![The Training Barn Story: Who We Are, What We Do and Why]()
If you want to get photography clients, then you need to learn how to sell yourself…
Believe me, nobody understands how scary this seems more than I do. But after fourteen years of working in the photography business, I’ve also learned sharing my story feels far more authentic than selling advertising.
You see, I worked really hard and devoted a lot of time to build my business and brand and this continues today. Early on in my career, I would be asked if I would show people how to use their cameras for horse photography. These requests allowed me to consider teaching in the equine photography industry, to see if I truly enjoyed coaching other people. So I set up 1:1 sessions and group photography days, including children’s photography and adult group courses.
After working with these groups for a bit, I decided I wanted to further my own education and gain industry recognition. I believed I was destined to work behind the scenes with my photography clients, teaching them how to improve and progress their own photography business. To do this, I earned my ARPS and FBIPP. Then, suddenly, the flood gates opened and I was inundated with training requests.
Once my services were in demand, I created very specific equine photography and business based courses.
So then, after continued success, I didn’t have the time to accept anymore 1:1 clients and knew I needed to open up more space to run group courses, so I could reach more people who wanted my help with their photography business. That’s when I converted a barn at my New Forest home into a training space, able to accommodate up to 15 people.
This made it much easier for me to create several group training programs, including the options I have today. Throughout the year, I offer my 1 day, 3 day and evening groups, but only allow six clients at a time, so everyone gets as much attention as they deserve. I set up my business this way because I love inspiring my photography clients. To see them believe in themselves and their dreams is something that fulfills me. At the end of our sessions, I watch them create beautiful, timeless images while maintaining a financially rewarding business.
My story began with a dream and ends with a purpose. Sharing it with others allows them to see my passion, but it also indirectly advertises my business.
Knowing and sharing your own story is the most authentic way to share your business with potential clients.
![The Training Barn Story: Who We Are, What We Do and Why]()
Our wonderful day started with the sun joining us for our morning shoot. Mitch Asher from the New Forest joined us with her beautiful chestnut horse, Zara. Both were fantastic models.
After our time with our models ended we were all pretty hungry and ready for lunch, so we headed back to my barn to enjoy a well deserved break. My mum spoiled us with lots of gorgeous homemade cake which went down extremely well with all the tea and coffee we drank. We were set up for an afternoon discussing workflow, editing, the sales process and pricing strategy.While you do not have to be an advanced photographer to benefit from this course, each participant showed true passion in equine photography. They inspired me and each other, and showed how keen they were to take their business to the next level and succeed in the equine market. I was able to show them the most successful processes I use when dealing with horses and their owners, and to prove to them they can be an amazing horse photographer.
I always enjoy my group courses, but the combination of the sun, the cake and great company made this day extra special for me. I feel very lucky indeed.
For an itinerary, price and dates this course is offered, please click the link here to see all of the details on my course.
![The Training Barn Story: Who We Are, What We Do and Why]()
When choosing my career, I did not realise how much difference there would be between the types of photography we can do and the types of resources we need to complete a session. I certainly learned that the preparation for an equine photography shoot can be a bit different for other types of photography sessions.
Now, I have a much better grasp on what I need to have handy, so I can focus on my clients successful photo shoot.
If you’re just deciding whether to choose a career in equine photography, here are some really helpful resources (from books to gear) to help your photography business succeed.
The Manual of Horsemanship from The Pony Club.
This manual will help anyone, especially beginners in equine photography, learn about horsemanship. From understanding the people who love their horses to how they take care of them, this book helps you better understand the people and animals you will be working with. Not only that, but it also provides you with common terminology used in the field, so you’ll understand what your client is saying when they use horse jargon. Plus, you can speak to them in a way they already understand.
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Horse Breeds by Susan McBane can help you better prepare upcoming sessions by giving you knowledge about the type of horse you’re going to work with. You’ll know what to expect, based on the breed of horse owned by your client.
If you are trying to find an area show, or even national shows, you can search for them at RidingDiary. Once you’re on the page, you’ll notice a search bar across the top of the screen. You’ll enter the region or county, month and event type. The website will give you all the information you need on upcoming events. Horse shows are great places to network and advertise your equine photography business.
Beyond these three great tools you can refer to over and over again, you’ll also benefit from having these resources available to you on the day of your session.
• Wet weather gear – there’s nothing worse than being cold on a shoot. A good, warm and rainproof jacket is necessary to avoid suffering when it’s wet outside.
• Wellies or Walking boots – for the same reason as the jacket, these will keep your feet warm and dry. They also come in handy when you’re walking through wet, muddy terrain, even on days it’s not raining.
• Polo mints – to keep the horse smiling (and you!)
• Black or Brown Lead Rope – clients love brightly coloured and patterned lead ropes. For the photo shoots they sometimes forget to bring a plain one.
• Bucket of Nuts – these come in handy when you need to get the horse’s attention. Just shake them.
• An Assistant – always helpful unless you want to have the camera in one hand and bucket of nuts in the other
• 4×4 vehicle – after a long shoot, the last thing you want to worry about is being pulled out of your client’s yard by their tractor.
• Digital SLR camera
• Long zoom lens – ideally 70-200mm so you can stand back from the horse and let it feel more comfortable and natural while you’re shooting.
• Memory Card Space – at least 16GB, but the more you have the better.
• A Fully Charged Battery
• Clean camera – My camera is always filthy by the end of a shoot. Be sure to clean yours between sessions so you look professional and keep your camera in good condition.
If you are just starting out as an equine photographer, all of the above will definitely come in handy for you to stay comfortable and appear professional while you’re working with your clients. If you have a must-have item I haven’t listed, feel free to email me and let me know!
