Horse Portraits
Celebrating the beauty, strength, and bond you share
From the wind in their mane to the softness in their eyes, horses have a presence unlike any other. My goal is to capture not just their form, but their spirit — the quiet power, the grace, and the connection they share with the people who love them most.
Each portrait experience is designed to be calm, safe, and meaningful. Whether it’s your horse alone in golden evening light or the two of you together sharing an unspoken bond, I’ll create fine art portraits that honor your partnership and preserve their beauty for a lifetime.
Galleries
Capture your horse's authentic expression, dynamic energy, and finest qualities with my portraits. With over 30 years in the horse industry, I bring the expertise to showcase your beloved equine at its best. Let my passion and skill immortalize your horse in timeless portraits you'll cherish forever.
Your Signature Horse Portrait Experience
Horse sessions are available year-round, with most owners preferring spring through fall when coats are sleek and glossy and the Idaho landscape is bursting with color. Each session is fully customized to your horse’s personality and comfort level, with plenty of time to create both traditional portraits and candid, emotional moments.
Every session includes:
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A pre-session consultation to plan location, styling, and details
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Up to 90 minutes of photography (for one horse, with or without owner)
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Expert posing and guidance to ensure flattering light and composition
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Signature fine art editing for each final image
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A private online gallery for viewing, downloading, and sharing
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Personal usage rights for printing and display
Session Investment
The Classic Collection – $1,500
All-inclusive session with all edited digital files
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Up to 90 minutes of photography for one horse
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Fully edited gallery of 40+ fine art images
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High-resolution and social media files for every image
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Private online gallery for downloading and sharing
The Heirloom Collection – $2,200
For those who want the full experience — portraits, story, and tangible art
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Everything from the Classic Collection
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Plus a $1,000 artwork credit toward wall art, album, or keepsakes
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Complimentary artwork design service
Add-On Options
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Additional horses (same owner): +$350 each
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Extended session time: +$100 per 30 minutes
2025 Sessions Are Officially
Sold Out
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the incredible support — I’m honored (and truly humbled!) to be fully booked for 2025.
If you’d still love to work together, don’t worry — life happens, and sometimes a few spots open up due to reschedules or cancellations. The best way to stay in the loop is to join my VIP email list below. You’ll be the first to know about:
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Last-minute session openings
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Cancellations or waitlist opportunities
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Booking announcements for 2026
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Special events and seasonal offerings
Whether you’re dreaming of a signature portrait session for your beloved horse, a heartfelt horse & rider session, or a one-of-a-kind custom experience — I’d love to create something magical with you.
Spots are limited and often book quickly, so be sure to sign up and stay connected!
Why choose me as your equine photographer?
Because this isn’t just about beautiful images (though you’ll absolutely get those!) — it’s about capturing the essence of your horse: the softness in their eye, the strength in their stance, and the quiet magic that makes them truly unforgettable.
Deep understanding of equine behavior
Your horse’s comfort and safety always come first. I know how to read their body language, when to wait for a calm moment, and how to work with all types — from high-energy athletes to gentle seniors. This allows me to create natural, soulful images that truly reflect who your horse is.
A creative eye for something uniquely yours
Every horse is different, and every session should be too. I take the time to understand your vision, your horse’s personality, and how to bring it all together through beautiful light, thoughtful locations, and meaningful moments. The result? Portraits that feel personal, timeless, and true.
Professional tools + thoughtful approach
Whether your horse needs a little space, or the light changes quickly, I come prepared. My professional gear allows me to work from a safe distance while still capturing gorgeous detail and split-second moments — even in challenging outdoor environments.
Patience, empathy, and deep respect
Horses are sensitive, intuitive beings, and I treat every session with the calm, respectful energy they deserve. There’s never a rush. We’ll move at your horse’s pace, keeping the experience low-stress and enjoyable for everyone involved. My goal is always to create something meaningful — and to make the process feel just as special as the finished artwork.
The First Hello
You reach out and share a bit about your horse.
From there, we’ll schedule a time to connect so I can learn more about your horse, your story, and what you’re envisioning for the session. I’ll answer any questions you have and walk you through the next steps. It’s a relaxed, no-pressure conversation to help you feel confident, supported, and excited about what’s to come.
Planning with Purpose
You’ll receive a complete session guide to help you prepare, along with a planning call or email consult where we’ll go over the details:
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Your horse’s temperament and comfort zones
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What kind of images move you most
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Barn, field, or favorite setting for your portraits
Every session is designed to be relaxed and horse-centered.
The Portrait Session
With calm energy, a patient approach, and deep respect for your horse, I create space for authentic images—whether they’re standing proudly in the light, galloping through the field, or quietly nuzzling you.
This isn’t a rushed shoot—it’s time to connect, reflect, and capture the story you’ve built together.
Editing
After your session, I’ll carefully select the strongest images that best reflect your horse’s beauty, personality, and presence. Each chosen portrait is then artistically edited with great attention to detail—enhancing light and color while removing any distractions like lead ropes, flies, handlers, or background elements when needed.
The result? Clean, timeless images that honor your horse exactly as you see them—majestic, soulful, and unforgettable.
Image Reveal & Ordering Session
Two to three weeks later, we’ll meet for your image reveal and ordering appointment. You’ll see your gallery come to life and choose the portraits that reflect your horse’s spirit and your connection.
Together, we’ll design heirloom-quality artwork you’ll be proud to display—from fine art prints to handcrafted albums.
Product Delivery
Your finished artwork will be carefully packaged and delivered to your door—ready to be admired, shared, and loved for years to come.
This experience is about honoring your horse, your story, and the legacy you’ve created together—through soulful imagery and timeless art.
The Artwork
How will you choose to showcase your portraits?
Explore a range of stunning artwork options!
At Shannon Edney Photography, I'm here to help you curate your cherished images, providing expert guidance as you select your favorite portraits to transform into stunning, custom artwork that will captivate hearts for generations to come!
From contemporary to rustic or traditional styles, choose from a range of wall art options that perfectly complement your home decor. Whether you opt for a single, breathtaking piece or a multi-image wall gallery, each selection is guaranteed to make a joyful statement in your space.
If space is limited, fear not! Explore my selection of archival artisan albums, meticulously crafted to showcase your treasured images for years to come. While digital files are available, I recommend pairing them with tangible artwork to create a truly immersive experience that brings joy to your everyday life.
So, sit back, relax, and let your imagination run wild as you envision the beauty of your personalized artwork gracing the walls of your home. I'm here to make your vision a reality.
Scroll down to view some of the stunning portrait products offered. A full list of my curated collection products and pricing are available during our pre-session consultation call.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of location is best?
An area that is visually appealing, safe, and suited to capturing your horse in the best lighting. Ideally, lush grasslands, open meadows without fences or buildings visible; classic barn doors, barn aisles (black background portraits), trees, bushes, flowers in foreground / background; water locations (lakes, ponds, etc.).
Does my horse need to be clipped?
No, clipping isn’t necessary, though a freshly clipped bridle path is recommended. Many of my portraits feature horses in their natural state.
If you choose to body or face clip, do so 2-3 weeks prior to allow the coat to rehydrate for a smoother look. Ears and whiskers can be trimmed on the day of the shoot.
Can I be in the images too?
Of course! I cherish capturing the wonderful connection between you and your horse. Your clothing choice should complement your horse's coat color - solids and neutral colors tend to look best. Avoid white if possible.
What time will our photo session be?
I schedule most sessions during the magical "golden hour," early in the morning or the last two hours of daylight for optimal lighting. We'll discuss the best location and time during the session-planning call. Sessions last about 30-60 minutes, giving your horse time to acclimate to the camera and ensuring a variety of images for you to choose from.
Is my horse's safety a concern?
Safety for you and your horse is paramount during the session - I take care to work quietly and safely around every horse to ensure a positive experience for all. As a horse person myself, I understand the importance of trust and communication when working with horses. I encourage the portrait session to be a time of play and enjoyment for the horse, allowing them to show off their natural beauty and talents!
How & when do I pay for my session?
A 50% non-refundable deposit secures your date/time in my schedule, applied towards your session cost. The remaining balance is due on or before the day of your session. Payment plans are available upon request, with options for bi-weekly or monthly installments. Accepted payment methods include cash, Zelle, ApplePay, Venmo and PayPal.
I want treasured portraits of my horse!
To book a session, simply click here! If you have any questions, feel free to send them via this inquiry form or give me a call at 406-544-2881. I can't wait to work with you!
Ready to book your session?
I can’t wait to create something beautiful for you and your horse.
Whether you’re dreaming of soulful connection portraits, stunning fine art images of your horse in motion, or timeless artwork that captures their beauty and spirit, every session is designed to celebrate your bond in an authentic, meaningful way.
Let’s tell your story through portraits that honor your partnership, your horse’s personality, and the unforgettable moments you share.
The following posts from my Canine Chronicles
feature insightful and valuable tips for preparing for your portrait session.
Shannon did a fantastic job at our recent photo session! It’s not easy making a 70 yr old horse lover look good! But Shannon really understands the animals and our love for them! Truly an amazing experience! I’m thrilled with the professional quality of the photographs!
Kit
Shannon has captured our horses in such a special & unique way. She understands the importance of lighting & expression, catches the joy of movement, the beauty of emotion, & the tenderness of feeling not often captured through a lens. I have worked with some of the best in the professional world of equine photography & Shannon shares a rare talent of seeing the subject with an insight that goes beyond what can be taught, a gift only God can give.
Suzy
Shannon goes above and beyond with her incredible talent. Shannon not only captures the beauty of her subjects but also their heart and soul. Her ability to find just exactly the right lighting and background is phenomenal. All of my animals (horses, dogs, and cats) respond to Shannon in a way that goes beyond words. If you are looking to capture your beloved pet, there is no one better than Shannon Edney Photography.