Here in the Midwest, we experience a wild ride of seasons. One day it’s sunny and 75º, the next we’re digging out our winter coats again, often wondering why we continue to live in a place where the weather can’t make up its mind.

As an equine photographer, I’ve worked in every kind of weather, and I’ve learned how the seasons can change the look and feel of your session. While personal preference and location (especially if you’re outside of the Midwest) play a big role, I hope that sharing my own perspective can help you choose the season that best suits your dream shoot.

Here’s my thoughts on each season, as well as what to expect during your equine photoshoot:

Spring
Spring brings longer days and warmer temps, after the period of brown, mud, and bare trees. The return of green grass and fresh blossoms is the season of newness! If you show your horse, spring sessions are great for getting those early-season photos before show schedules get too busy. The couple of weeks we have of blossoming trees and lilac bushes make for some amazing backdrops, too!

It may feel like a game of patience waiting for things to not be muddy and horses that may still be shedding. If you don’t clip or blanket your horses and prefer a sleek, shiny coat, summer might be a better fit.

Summer
Summer is hands down my favorite season for equine photography sessions. Long golden hours, plenty of blue skies and sunshine, and lush green pastures. Your horse is shed out, looking sleek and shiny in their summer coat. Early mornings and late evenings offer that dreamy, gold light that makes photos feel like magic.

That said, summer brings the heat AND the bugs. Be sure to pack plenty of bug spray for both you and your horse, stay hydrated, and bring a towel just in case you need to dab away any sweat. With a little prep, summer sessions can be absolutely stunning.

Fall
The changing of the seasons in the Midwest is absolutely stunning. Sugar maples burst into brilliant shades of reds, oranges, and golds, giving you breathtaking backdrops that feel like a painting.

Timing is everything – fall colors can be unpredictable and their peak varies each year. I extensively watch to see when peak colors happen in various areas to give the best time frame, but depending on weather, you might be in a sweater one day and a sundress the next! Keep in mind, your horse may start growing in their winter woolies, which could impact the look you’re going for.

Winter
There’s something magical about a fresh snowfall and running horses. Once we get that first snow, I’m itching to get out and shoot! Snow creates a clean, dreamy backdrop, perfect for standing portraits or your horse galloping and kicking up snow. The light in winter is softer, with the sun lower in the sky, which means gorgeous images and earlier shoot times.

Of course, cold weather isn’t for everyone. If you’re brave enough to ditch your coat for a few shots, bring some hand warmers and hot cocoa (you’ll thank me later!). And while your horse’s fuzzy winter coat can be adorable, it might not showcase that summer shine you’ve worked so hard for.

Whether you’re planning a horse and rider portrait session or a candid equine shoot, each season offers a distinct aesthetic that’s worth considering. The best season really depends on your goals, your horse, and your personal vibe. There’s no wrong time to capture beautiful memories with your horse.

Whenever you’re ready, I’ll be here to help make it happen – mud, bugs, snow, and all.