Nestled in the heart of Europe are the rolling landscapes of the Südtirol, a place where the air carries whispers of old-world charm and the mountainside taunts the skies. It's here, among the silent sentinels of dolomite rock, that the honey-colored manes of Haflinger horses dance with the wind. And where I had the chance to photograph them alongside the talented photographer Katarzyna Okrzesik-Mikołajek.
The Haflinger Breed
The Haflinger, with its amiable attitude and sturdy build, is not only a creature of resilience but also a symbol of the local cultural heritage. Known for their friendly nature and muscular frame, these horses are as much a part of the Südtirol mountains as the edelweiss that dot the green meadows. With their distinctive chestnut coats, light-colored manes and tails, and dark eyes full of intelligence, Haflingers exude a certain charm that is hard to resist.
Originating in the picturesque mountains of South Tyrol, the Haflinger breed has been around for over 100 years. Developed by the peasants of the area as a strong and versatile workhorse, they were also valued for their gentle temperament, making them ideal for family use. Today, they are still widely used as riding and driving horses, as well as popular companions for leisure activities such as trail riding and pony trekking.
The Südtirol Mountains
The mountains, with their jagged peaks and flowing valleys, hold secrets of countless years for those who explore their trails. Each angle truly is like a postcard, and every view is a masterpiece brought to life. The crisp mountain air and the soothing sounds of nature create an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Photographing Haflinger Horses in the Mountains
During my workshop tour in Italy, we visited this stunningly beautiful setting. Previously I had only photographed horses and their humans, never horses alone, let alone in a herd setting.
It was during this horse photography workshop that I started to realize that photographing horses in this way is all about immersing yourself. It's not about directing them, but rather embracing their free-spirited nature. It takes patience and understanding to capture their essence. It's like a dance between the photographer and the subject, where you learn their rhythm and, moving alongside them, and are able to capture the perfect shot.
Showcasing the Connection between Horses and Nature
Haflinger horses exude the spirit of the Südtirol Mountains. They're not just strong; they embody the resilience of these alpine terrains. And on a poetic note, with their fluffy manes and tails swaying like wildflowers in the wind, they perfectly complement the mountain panoramas. They are so graceful yet strong, blending in perfectly with the grandeur of their environment. These creatures don't just survive; they thrive, as steadfast as the age-old rocks and as gentle as the quiet brooks. Whether grazing on lush mountain grass or nuzzling their foals under pine trees, these horses are not just in the mountains; they are a part of them.
At the end of that shooting, we gathered around the picnic tables, soaking in the warm evening light and being completely mesmerized by the calmness of the grazing horses in front of us. I was feeling so genuinely happy to be able to be in the presence of these beautiful horses, sharing it with people who so obviously felt the same about being there. And I felt lucky to have been able to photograph all that beauty. And now sharing it with you, I hope you can feel a little bit of that magic too.