Photographing a Timeless Bond: Kendyl and Her Gelding, Denny, at Foot Loose Farm

Capturing a Timeless Bond: Kendyl and Her Gelding, Denny, at Foot Loose Farm, Reedsville, WI

As an equine photographer, there are certain moments that remind you why you fell in love with this craft in the first place. This past July, I had the pleasure of photographing Kendyl and her incredible gelding, Denny, at Foot Loose Farm in Reedsville, Wisconsin. Together, they created a beautiful scene filled with quiet moments, laughter, and the unmistakable connection that exists between a horse and rider.

The Setting: Foot Loose Farm

Foot Loose Farm provided the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable photoshoot. The sweeping fields and picturesque landscapes of yellow flowers set the tone for a relaxed, natural atmosphere. Late July gifted us with lush green grass and soft, diffused lighting—ideal conditions to bring out the rich colors in Denny's coat and the subtle beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The Connection Between Kendyl and Denny

Right from the start, it was clear that Kendyl and Denny share a bond built on trust and love. Watching Kendyl interact with Denny, I could see the mutual respect and affection they held for each other. Kendyl’s quiet confidence and gentle demeanor put Denny at ease, making my job as a photographer much easier.

The session allowed for a mix of portrait-style shots and candid moments that perfectly captured their dynamic. In one particularly touching moment, Kendyl sat down on the ground next to Denny, and he lowered his head towards her, as if sharing a private conversation. It’s these unscripted moments that make equine photography so rewarding, and I felt privileged to capture this exchange.

Photography Highlights

The shoot incorporated a variety of looks, from classic headshots to playful shots in the open field. Here are some highlights:

  • Close-Up Portraits: We began with some close-up portraits of Denny, framed against a black backdrop. His gentle, intelligent eyes and distinct marking on his forehead added character to these shots, allowing his personality to shine through in a simple yet powerful way.

  • Field Shots: In the open field, Kendyl’s natural interactions with Denny brought out a lighthearted and free-spirited energy. With her soft, flowing dress and Denny's warm, bay coat, they looked like they belonged in the scenery, creating a timeless and almost ethereal quality in the images.

  • Casual Ground Shots: Kendyl sitting on the ground with Denny beside her created an intimate, tender moment that highlighted the trust between them. These photos reveal the softer side of equine companionship—Denny’s relaxed stance and Kendyl’s affectionate gaze spoke volumes about the depth of their bond.

The End Result

The finished images are a blend of elegance, warmth, and authenticity. Each photo tells a piece of Kendyl and Denny's story, capturing the essence of their relationship in a way that only a true connection between horse and rider can convey. Looking back on this session, I’m grateful for the chance to photograph such a meaningful relationship, and I'm thrilled that Kendyl and Denny will have these images to look back on for years to come.

This session was a reminder of why I’m passionate about equine photography. Every horse and rider has a unique story to tell, and my goal is to capture that story in its purest form. Kendyl and Denny’s shoot at Foot Loose Farm was a beautiful chapter, and I look forward to the next adventure behind the lens.

Close-up black background portrait of a bay horse wearing a leather halter, highlighting the white star marking on its forehead.
Young woman kisses her bay horse in a vibrant yellow flower field, capturing a sweet, emotional bond.
Woman gently placing her hand on her horse’s face while they stand together in a lush yellow flower field.
Woman riding bareback on her bay horse down a gravel path, smiling and relaxed in a natural setting.
Young woman in a cream dress smiling next to her bay horse in a tall grassy field, sharing a serene moment.
Smiling woman in black top and jeans holding her horse’s reins, surrounded by blooming yellow flowers.
Rear view of a woman walking beside her horse on a country road, showcasing their peaceful companionship.
Elegant bay horse wearing a bridle, standing alert with ears forward on a cloudy day at the arena.
Rear view of a woman and her horse walking away through a natural path, surrounded by tall summer grass.
Woman in cream dress leading her bay horse through a green trail, both framed by tall waving grass.
Young woman in a flowing slate blue dress riding her bay horse bareback in a sand arena, smiling with joy.
Woman in a slate blue gown standing beside her bay horse in an arena, holding the reins with a soft smile.
Woman facing her bay horse in a sandy arena, gently holding the reins and smiling affectionately.
Laughing woman in blue dress laying across her bay horse's back, capturing a playful and relaxed connection.
Portrait of a woman smiling while standing behind her bay horse, highlighting their sweet bond and soft sunset light.
Rear view of woman in long dress riding her bay horse through a field of tall summer grass.
Elegant bay horse walking with rider in a blue gown through a dressage arena on a cloudy summer day.
Woman riding her bay horse through a field of tall grass, soft green trees blurred in the background.
Smiling woman riding her bay horse bareback in a slate blue dress, captured head-on in an outdoor arena.
Woman reaching down to pat her bay horse’s neck while riding in a slate blue dress, framed in warm evening light.
Woman in a slate blue gown standing beside her bay horse in profile, with the reins draped loosely and soft summer light.
Close-up of a woman’s bare feet hanging on either side of a bay horse, wearing a flowing slate blue dress during a barefoot ride.
Close-up of a girl standing barefoot beside her bay horse, wearing a white dress with a floral pattern.
Woman in a slate blue gown standing beside her bay horse in profile, with the reins draped loosely and soft summer light.
Woman in a white floral skirt sitting on the ground as her bay horse lowers its head beside her in a quiet, intimate moment.
Close-up of a bay horse nuzzling the hand of a seated woman in a white floral skirt, creating a tender connection.
Equine Portraits, Horse & Rider SessionsAubray VandeComment