Golden hour horse photography: Why I don’t make exceptions anymore
- Caroline Nijs
- May 8
- 2 min read
For a while, I tried to be flexible. After all, I aim to offer a premium client experience. So I’ve done morning shoots, midday shoots, sessions in less-than-ideal weather, all because I didn’t want to disappoint you. And I always hoped it would work out.
But so often, the light was less than ideal, or I was too tired (this was before I learned to respect my energy levels), … and the whole thing just didn’t feel aligned with how I want to work. I really didn’t enjoy working this way. So I’ve stopped compromising.
No, I am not being difficult
Golden hour horse photography isn’t just some romantic idea. The light is so soft, it’s absolutely flattering, and just makes everything look beautiful.
Harsh sunlight at midday? That turns everything flat and contrasty, makes eyes squint, and creates shadows where you don’t want them.
And yes, morning light can be beautiful. But we’ve all got a time of day when our brains actually show up—and mornings just aren’t it for me.
I’ve learned that doing good work starts with knowing when not to compromise.
This is how I shoot what you see in my portfolio
You’re probably here because you saw my work and something about it made you stop.
What you see is the result of choosing the right time, reading the horse, and giving things space. None of that can be fixed later in Photoshop.
This is why I don’t settle on timing. If we book a session, it’ll be golden hour. Not in the morning. Not at high noon. Just the time of day that lets me do what I do best—and gives you the kind of images you'll love to showcase in your home.
And if the weather’s bad?
If there’s a bit of rain but still enough light to work with, we can make it happen—if you’re ok with that. But if you’re not feeling it, we’ll reschedule.
We are not in a rush. I want to make sure we’re in the right space, with the right light, to get the kind of photos that show you and your horse as you are.
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