Zander | Fine Art Equine Portrait in Arundel, Maine
Recently I had the joy of photographing this absolute gentleman of a horse in Arundel. Having many photos of him in the show ring, his owner wanted something different this time. These images were meant to focus entirely on Zander himself, captured in fine art detail for a daily reminder of his charm and grace on her wall.
Zander was incredible in front of the camera. He was calm, patient, and completely natural during the entire session. As an equine photographer, I could not have asked for a better-behaved subject.
What made this shoot even more special was that it became a family effort. Everyone worked together to help capture Zander’s personality and presence. The goal was simple, show the essence of the horse they love so much.
And I think we did.
Those soulful eyes and his dignified presence took center stage in every frame. At times it felt as if he knew this was his moment to shine.
Learning the Horse Before the Portrait
Before every equine photography session, I take time to talk with the owner about their horse. I ask them to share what makes their horse unique, what they love most, and what kind of story they hope the photographs will tell.
Zander’s owner, Trish, told me she could talk about him all day. Like many horse owners, narrowing down his story was the hardest part.
Here is a little about Zander, in her own words.
Zander’s Story
“Clifton Zander was born in 2003 in New Zealand out of a Selle Français mare and Olympian Greg Best’s Thoroughbred stallion BT.
Fun fact: there are at least three clones of his aunt, Olympic Champion Gem Twist.
Zander began his career as an event horse before focusing strictly on dressage. He was shown in New Zealand, Canada, and along the East Coast of the United States.
If having a microchip, a passport, and a lifetime United States Equestrian Federation number wasn’t impressive enough, Zander also served as a para dressage horse for a previous owner who used a wheelchair for mobility.
Today Zander is retired from his professional career. He now lives a quieter life in Maine with his current, and final, owner. She enjoys the privilege of caring for such an impeccably bred and beautifully trained horse.”
leave a comment