Every so often, I take on a project that’s bigger than a single day, a single shoot, or even a single image.
Photographing for the SmartPak rebrand — now SmartEquine — was exactly that kind of project.
This company has been part of my horse girl DNA for as long as I can remember. I saved the catalogs, filled digital shopping carts, and bought supplies for Riptide, my first horse, from their site. When they reached out to me with an opportunity over a year ago, it felt like coming full-circle. Now, a number of photoshoots and campaigns later, working with the SmartEquine team isn’t new. But, having the chance to photograph the newest chapter of their story, a chapter even more deeply rooted in the health, happiness, and individuality of every horse, was an opportunity I was thrilled to be offered.
Getting imagery for this big rebrand ended up being a multi-location, multi-day shoot across the country with an incredible team of creative minds and horse people. And while we took hundreds of photos (and fell in love with more than we could count), one horse kept rising to the top: Biltmore.
I’ve photographed Biltmore for the last four years, and in that time I’ve watched him grow, not only in stature, but in strength and confidence. He’s always been stunning, but what stands out most is his presence. Even when he’s dozing quietly in his stall or walking to turnout on a loose lead, he’s a horse you’re just aware of.
That doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of intentional care, a thoughtful development program, and a deep understanding of what he, specifically, needs to thrive. And that’s what SmartEquine is all about, recognizing that no two horses are the same, and honoring what makes each one one of a kind.
The images created don’t just show a beautiful horse. Well, they do. But behind that beautiful horse, off camera, they show a lifetime of consideration for the individual needs and nature of Biltmore. They show an owner, a rider, and a trainer that put the horse first every single time.
To the full SmartEquine team — Viviane, Nels, Ian, Tommy, and Jenna — thank you for your creative energy, your vision, and your trust. To Sara, Emilee, and Taylor — thank you for always backing me up on the photography side. And to Ben and Melany, the stewards of the incomparable Biltmore, thank you for letting your remarkable stallion be the face of something so special.
I’m incredibly proud of the work we made together. And even more proud of what it stands for.
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