Annie: A Yearling Full of Spirit and Sass

Photographing a young horse is a true exercise in patience, readiness, and empathy and Annie, an 18-month-old American Quarter Horse, made it both a challenge and a delight. From the moment we started, she was full of energy, charm and personality with little bucks, playful rears and moments of cheeky defiance that reminded me just how spirited yearlings can be.

I first met Dave when his wife, Keri, had a session with her American Quarter Horse, Arya, back in June 2021. Returning to photograph Annie felt like visiting old friends, but this little chestnut had her own personality shining through every frame.

Working with youngsters requires a gentle, calm, and professional approach, and Dave’s handling was exceptional. When Annie hesitated, flinched, or threw a tiny “toddler tantrum,” we paused, waited, and let her find her confidence. It’s in these quiet, patient moments that the most natural, heartfelt images are captured, shots that truly showcase a young horse’s character and charm.

Annie’s beauty, energy, and sass came through perfectly in the photos. Each little buck or playful rear added personality to the images, making them more than just portraits, they became a story of her youth, her curiosity, and her individuality. Dave chose a number of prints to bring these moments into their home, creating lasting reminders of Annie’s early days.

Why Photographing Your Yearling is So Important
Yearlings grow quickly, their features change, their personalities evolve, and before long, those playful antics are replaced by maturity. Capturing your young horse at this age preserves their unique spirit, their early energy, and those fleeting moments of sass and curiosity. A professional photoshoot at this stage is not only an investment in beautiful images but in memories that will last a lifetime.

Every session I offer is tailored to the horse’s temperament and personality. For a youngster like Annie, this means patience, flexibility and respect. The results are images full of life, character, and beauty.

Capture Your Yearling Today
Don’t wait, your young horse grows quickly and those early moments won’t last forever. Book a professional photoshoot to capture their personality, energy and beauty while they’re still a yearling. Contact me today to arrange your session and create timeless images you’ll treasure forever.