BETHANY UNWIN is a Southern California based published photographer well known in the equestrian industry for both her styled sessions and fine art equine portraiture, specifically cavases using "black" background photography. Her ability to create a relaxed atmosphere while permanently capturing the distinct personality of each client has made her work highly sought after across the United States. Additionally, Brittany’s commercial work is used by some of the most scrutinous purveyors including Solea Equestrian and Renard et Cheval and industry publications like The Plaid Horse. Recently, I caught up with Brittany and discussed her unique style in creating indivualized experiences and tips to ensure a successful experience in capturing your timeless piece of art.
What exactly is a styled equine session?
The styled equine sessions started out as test shoots for me to work with different makeup artists and designers. I would put together an overall idea for the shoot, select the clothing that would go best, and we would go from there.
The images were used for portfolio, advertising, or anything along those lines. I ended up liking these shoots so much because it allowed me to be more creative than the typical portrait session, so I started offering them to clients. I work with two makeup artists, Christina Sisk, who is a San Diego based makeup artist, and Tasha Focarelli, who is a Los Angeles based makeup artist. Each one of them has contributed so much to these shoots for my clients. It usually starts with Christina or Tasha doing the clients makeup on site or at the clients home, and then the client will meet me on site, go over dress options when available, props to choose from, and we go from there!
Can you provide 5 tips for a customer to have a great styled equine session experience?
1- DEFINE YOUR LOOK.
I would say first and foremost, have an idea of the look and style that you're going for. This will not only help me pick a great location either on site or off site, but will also help the makeup artist know the look you're going for. A majority of my clients have seen the bohemian or vintage type shoots with the long flowy dresses and flower crowns; it's a look that you really can't go wrong with when it comes to horses.
But this look isn't for everyone, so it's good to know exactly what my client likes, or images that they've seen that they really enjoyed. Sometimes I will have them pin some styles or some images on Pinterest to help me understand their vision better.
2 – BRING A FRIEND
Whether it's a styled shoot or a basic senior portrait session, bringing a friend or even a groom along (if he/she feels extra generous) is always helpful. Some horses are naturals in front of the camera and they'll pose for long periods of time as if they know that we're trying to get the right shot. Others can't be bothered by any sort of sounds, peppermint candy crinkles, treat jars, you name it ... nothing will make the ears to forward. Having a second person that knows your horse to help get their attention is always helpful when available.
3 – ATTIRE & TACK
If you're bringing your own dresses, rather than using some of the test shoot dresses, make sure you've tried them on before the shoot date. Many people will order dresses online without trying them on. We can pretty much make anything work when it has to, but you as a client will be much more comfortable when you're able raise your arm without the dress almost falling off, move with your horse without stepping on the hem, etc.
Tack is important too. Decide ahead of time if you prefer your horse in a halter or bridle. Make sure the tack is clean and that it complements the overall feel and style of the shoot.
4 – PERMISSION
Get the OK from your trainer / barn owner. Make sure that your barn owner knows you're having a photo shoot and has given you the o.k. If your barn owner isn't the deciding factor, make sure that your trainer has given you permission. Trainers want what is best for their clients and their horses. Sometimes your trainer might know something that you do not; like that your horse doesn't like the far right corner of the barn past 4:00 PM or other silly things that we wouldn't naturally think about. Make sure you trainer is well aware that you are having a photo shoot done and that they have given you the OK!
5 – BE PREPARED FOR ANYTHING!
Some of my most difficult shoots have turned out to be my favorites. We are working with giant toddlers (horses) so you never really know just how thrilled your horse is going to be having to pose for the camera while all of their friends are back in their stalls. Some horses love having their photos taken; others would rather be anywhere but there. It's funny because I have clients who will ask me things like "have you ever had to photograph a horse as difficult as mine?" or "sorry, he's not normally this bad" while in my mind I'm not really phased. I try to encourage my clients to have a vogue attitude about it at all times.
Be prepared to get the best shot no matter what is going on, as long as it seems safe. Your horse might be preoccupied with whatever is going on in the distance and that still gives you a great opportunity to get a dramatic pose. (In that instance) look off in the other direction as if you're preoccupied as well. The perfect image isn't always when your horse’s ears are forward, head low, and body relaxed. Be prepared to have a good time even if your horse isn't behaving how you had planned.
Is there a best time of day to shoot certain types of portraiture?
Yes, I usually start my photo shoots, depending on the season, between 3:30 - 4:00 pm, which gives us until about 5:00 pm, sometimes later to shoot. Depending on the number of horses, outfit changes, etc., an hour is usually an ideal amount of shoot time.
When there are multiple outfit changes, tack changes or even horse changes, that's when it's better to add hours on to the shoot.
SPECIALIZING IN ALL-GENRE EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY WITH AN EMPHASIS ON EQUINE FINE ART, EDITORIAL AND PORTRAIT STYLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Equestrian sport has always been an integral part of Bethany Unwin’s lifestyle. She started riding at the age of 3 and competed primarily in the jumper division as a junior on the West Coast. She ultimately turned professional and pursued coaching, but the intensity of her photography career prompted her to use her talents more in the artistic realm of the equine industry. Bethany's affinity for the equestrian community is a driving force in expanding her talent and skills to best meet the needs of her clientele.
COOL FACT: Music is another passion for Bethany. She shoots quite a bit of concert photography for many of the LiveNation events in the San Diego and Los Angeles areas. Her work takes her to both small and large venues and amphitheaters including the House of Blues, Humphrys By the Bay, The Greek LA, The Honda Center, Sleeptrain, Hollywood Bowl and more.
BOOKING:
You can schedule a session with Bethany by email at info@bethanyunwinphotography.com or message through the social media platforms provided below. Messages are typically returned in less than one day.
-Instagram: @BethanyUnwinPhotography
-Facebook: facebook.com/BethanyUnwinPhotography2
-Website: www.bethanyunwinphotography.com
SERVICES:
-Styled Equine Session
-Equine Portraiture
-Commercial/Editorial Photography: From concept to styling for look books to campaign ads