Among the Wildflowers | A Summer Horse Photoshoot with Floyd at Barlow Fields
There are some locations that seem to stop you in your tracks, and Barlow Fields in Derbyshire is certainly one of them. During the summer months, the fields become a sea of colourful wildflowers, creating one of the most beautiful natural backdrops for horse photography. It feels wonderfully untouched, with every direction offering a new splash of colour and light.
This lovely session took place back in July 2022 with Fliss and her handsome Connemara, Floyd. It was especially lovely to see them again, having photographed Fliss previously with her mare, Matilda back in 2018. Being invited back to photograph another horse is always a huge compliment and something I never take for granted.
For this session, Fliss brought along two completely different outfits, each creating its own feel. We began with a relaxed country look of jeans and a pretty blouse that blended beautifully with the surrounding meadow. Later, she changed into a stunning cocktail dress, proving that horse photography doesn't always have to follow tradition. The contrast between elegant styling and the natural beauty of the wildflowers created something truly timeless.
One of the things I love most about horse and owner photography is creating images that celebrate the relationship between horse and rider. It's never about awkward posing or trying to create something that doesn't feel like you. Instead, it's about allowing genuine moments to unfold naturally while making the most of beautiful light and surroundings.
Like many people, Fliss admitted afterwards that she can be her own biggest critic. It's something I hear surprisingly often, particularly from women who rarely enjoy being in front of the camera. My approach has always been to photograph people in a flattering and natural way, carefully considering angles, light and gentle direction so they can simply enjoy spending time with their horse. Sometimes we see ourselves very differently from how others see us, and my hope is always that clients look back on their photographs and remember how special that time with their horse truly was.
The finished artwork now has pride of place in Fliss's home, a reminder of a wonderful summer's evening spent with Floyd surrounded by wildflowers.
Looking back through this session reminds me just how magical Barlow Fields is when it's in bloom. The combination of colourful flowers, open countryside and beautiful evening light creates a setting that's difficult to replicate anywhere else in Derbyshire.
I'd absolutely love to photograph more horses here in the future while the wildflowers are at their best. The flowering season is short, making these sessions wonderfully unique and something to look forward to each summer.
If you're dreaming of timeless photographs with your own horse surrounded by nature, I'd love to help create something just as special. Whether you prefer a relaxed countryside feel or something a little more elegant, every session is designed around you, your horse and the story you share together.
If you've ever dreamed of beautiful portraits with your horse surrounded by nature, I'd love to hear from you.
Whether you prefer relaxed country clothing or something a little more glamorous, every session is designed around you and your horse, creating artwork that celebrates your partnership in a way that feels natural and timeless.
If Barlow Fields is in bloom again next summer, I'd love to return. If you'd like to create your own wildflower portraits, get in touch early as the flowering season is wonderfully short.
