My Modelling Experience with the Training Barn

I recently volunteered to model for the Training Barn on an equine photo shoot. They had a group of 6 friendly photographers who were keen to hone their photography skills, using my pony and I as their subject!

 

It was an exciting morning. I was up at the crack of dawn- apparently this time of day hosts the best light! It was the morning after the first lot of rain we’d had in weeks- my grey pony had made the most of this and was completely black- An emergency bath was in order!

 

By 8am we were ready to go. Emily and Hannah led the shoot and posed my pony and I in various beautiful locations; in the woods and out on the heath in the middle of the New Forest.

 

My pony, however, not used to the modelling world, was a little impatient and was more interested in scoffing or going back to his field mates than looking smart and posing for photos!! He was a real fidget, but Emily and Hannah were really helpful and professional and made sure we kept moving so that my pony didn’t get bored too quickly!

 

In the end, it was a really fun morning. Even with my fidgety pony, the girls managed to capture some really amazing shots. I even got a USB of the final images- I couldn’t be happier with the results!

A Message from the Judges

This year’s entries showed exceptional creativity and a strong sense of storytelling. We judged each image on both emotional impact and technical strength, looking at composition, light, atmosphere, connection, colour, sharpness and thoughtful editing.

We were truly moved by the work submitted and are so proud of every photographer who took part. Thank you for trusting us with your art.

Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to our judging panel:
Emily Hancock
Hannah Freeland
Tilly Berendt
Elisabeth Vieten

And to our partners:
Kaleidoscope Framing
SWPM

Your support makes this celebration of creativity possible.

Looking Ahead

We are already excited for next year’s competition and cannot wait to see what you create in 2026.

Until then, keep photographing what inspires you and telling the stories that matter to you.

Emily and Hannah
The Training Barn