Northern Virginia’s

Equestrian Photographer

Before we even meet, we already have one thing in common, the love of horses! That’s right, if you’ve found me, then we share a common interest of loving these majestic animals. I have combined my love for horses with the love of photography and am living my best life doing this as a full time Equestrian Photographer serving Northern Virginia, Maryland, and DC.

Nicole Cranford Photography, Meet Nicole

Equestrian Packages

Professional equestrian photographer packages

Bronze

Collection

$375

1 hour
8 high resolution digital images
One location
One wardrobe
Private online gallery
Print release
1 week proof rendering

Let's Talk

Sliver

Collection

$575

1 hour
15 high resolution digital images
One location
Two wardrobe changes
Private online gallery
Print release
1 week proof rendering

Let's Talk

Gold

Collection

$975

2 hours
35 high resolution digital images
Two locations (optional)
Two wardrobe changes
Private online gallery
Print release
1 week proof rendering

Let's Talk

Equine Services | Equine Handler | Barn Maintenance Fee:

A $150 fee will be applied to any package for clients without their own horse or barn location. This fee covers the use of a horse for up to one hour, including the provision of a staff member to handle, clean, tack the horse, as well as a horse handler when necessary, and access to the barn facilities.

* Excludes micro weddings. Please contact me to build your photography experience!

Book Your Next Equestrian Photo Shoot with Me!

Are you looking to have your horse in your high school senior photo, or want to do a family portrait with your horse? Will you be competing at one of our local horse shows and need a photographer to capture those action jump shots, dressage, pleasure, and awards. Getting married, and want your mare to be your Mare of Honor? Then I am your photographer! Take a look around my website to get to know me better, click on the investment tab to see if I’m within your budget. Want to know more? Then contact me to arrange a consultation to see if we are a good fit.

Book a Discover Call

More About Equestrian Photography

As an equestrian and mother to an equestrian, there are many important considerations and details to know about what it takes to be an equestrian photographer. For starters, because I have experience and familiarity with horses, I’m not timid around them. I can typically tell if the horse is getting agitated or near its end of patience during a session. I have a few tricks to help with getting ears forward, which makes for a better photo. I have access to a range of horses and ponies to photograph you with if you don’t own or lease one of your own. I always work with a handler if photographing a horse that’s not your own or a bit much to handle by yourself. I’m able to bring an assistant to any equine shoot, should we require help with your horse. I grew up around horses, and absolutely have fallen in love with them. It has been one important factor in becoming a professional equine photographer.

Inquire About Equestrian Photography

Equestrian Photography FAQs

Where are you located?

I’m based out of Ashburn Virginia and am willing to travel in the DMV (DC, Maryland, and Virginia, and even some locations in West Virginia). Travel fees apply to locations outside of the DMV area and will be discussed prior to your appointment. If we didn’t discuss it – then they don’t apply.

How far in advance can we book a session?

Anytime…

Is my barn the ideal studio?

Yes! Don’t worry about how your barn looks, Photoshop can do wonders. Nearby fencing, trails, and natural paddocks can look amazing with the right lighting. Most important, is photographing your horse where they feel most comfortable!

How should I prepare my horse?

However, you would groom your horse for a show competition, then you’ll be set. Avoid show sheen if you’re doing a Horse & Rider shoot so you’ll nice and clean. I recommend a clean bridle and or leather halter. Don’t forget the hoof polish – common mistake!

What should I wear?

It all depends! It depends on what look you’re going for. If you want a photo shoot with show clothes on, I highly suggest simple things, like clean jacket free of wet horse kisses, and polished riding boots.

For a more formal look, solid colors work best in the event I need to Photoshop out an unsightly blemish (once had a horse eat some grass, then rubbed his face on the rider’s white shirt during the shoot…one small example. I have found that when the rider has a nice color contrast, it makes the photo pop!

What’s required for an equine only photo shoot?

I always require your assistance with holding/handling the horse to ensure a safe environment for me as the photographer and the horse! Your horse should always be on a lead rope (I can easily Photoshop this out of the photo).

What is recommended for a team photo?

Team photos render nicely when all riders are in show clothing, polished boots, and clean hats. Some great props would be awards (Trophies, Medals, Ribbons, etc.). Ideally, coaches should have on neutral clothing, free from patterns such as stripes and polka dots.

How are payments handled?

NCP Requires a Deposit of $100 to secure your date at the time of booking! You will have access to a client portal that will house your appointment, signing of contract, and invoice details. The remaining balance will be due at the time of the session. I accept all forms of payment whatever is convenient for you.

When do I receive my images?

Horse/Horse & Rider the standard turnaround time is 10 working days from the date of shoot.

BBG and Unicorn shoots are typically 3 weeks from time of shoot. Expedited editing is offered for an additional $100, with a 48 hour turn around. You will receive your gallery via an online link where you can download your high-resolution digital files at your convenience. Files will be delivered with an NCP Watermark but removed once files are purchased.

All digital files delivered are optimized for online sharing and social media. NCP is not responsible for how print files render outside the print studio listed via my online viewing gallery. This partnership ensures you receive a quality print photo where quick printing labs do not.

Can I post on social media?

Absolutely! I would love nothing more than for you to share with your friends and family. Photo credit is always welcome but not mandatory.

Can I use my images for commercial use?

Commercial licensing is handled on a case-by-case basis. All photographs are for personal use only and copyrighted with Nicole Cranford Photography. Please let me know in advance, if you plan to use images for your equine related business!