PHOTOGRAPHING HORSES
Alberta Bits is the Alberta Equestrian Federation’s official member magazine. It serves the equestrian community of horses and riders of all ages, interests, and involvements, as Alberta’s premier resource for education, information, and support.
THE ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION HAS BEEN INCORPORATED SINCE 1978
Alberta Bits magazine is mailed four times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter) to all current AEF members and is made available at the office and special events attended by the AEF. Alberta Bits is distributed throughout Alberta with news and events on behalf of recreational, sport, breeds, and industry, and educational sectors of the Alberta horse industry. Alberta Bits is distributed to approximately 18,000 members: 9,000 households and businesses, an exclusive list of tack and equine establishments, and at events and trade shows annually.
AEF BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Contact: board@albertaequestrian.com
PRESIDENT Jason Edworthy
PAST RESIDENT Sandy Bell
SECRETARY Jennifer Dimopoulos
INDIVIDUAL Patrick Buffalo
INDIVIDUAL Louise Caplan
INDIVIDUAL Alisa Di Benedetto
INDIVIDUAL Brooke Hartwick
INDIVIDUAL Edna Kaiser
INDIVIDUAL Cailin Kopetski
INDIVIDUAL Ally Penic
INDIVIDUAL Kate Wood
AEF STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sonia Dantu execdir@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 5
MEMBERSHIP Jessa Arnold membership@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 6
OFFICE COORDINATOR Darlene Legge info@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 1
PROJECT AND EVENT COORDINATOR Gavin Pearson competitions@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 4
SPORT AND RECREATION MANAGER
Karina Fernandes coaching@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 3
COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT MANAGER Kenda Lubeck marketing@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 2
FINANCE Johanna Nimchuk finance@albertaequestrian.com 403-253-4411 ext 7
OFFICE HOURS: 8:30AM TO 4:30PM, MONDAY TO FRIDAY, EXCEPT HOLIDAYS ALBERTA BITS IS PUBLISHED BY WESTERN PERFORMANCE PUBLISHING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AEF FOR EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES CONTACT: ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM
MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Webster
ART DIRECTOR Kendra Roberts
PUBLICATION COMMITTEE
Sonia Dantu • Monique Noble • Kenda Lubeck
CONTRIBUTORS
Alicia Nicole Photography, Ruth Armstrong
Krystina Lynn Photography, Suzanne Gomez Monique Noble, Nikki Knopp
Tania Millen, Kayla Rodgers Sarah Scheerhoorn UCVM
ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES Laurie Price • ldprice63@gmail.com • 403-823-0980
ADVERTISING SALES DEADLINES Winter 2024 Edition: October 30, 2024
FOR A MEDIA KIT AND/OR RATE CARD PLEASE CONTACT ALBERTABITS@ALBERTAEQUESTRIAN.COM
All material is copyright 2024. Ideas and opinions expressed in articles do not necessarily reflect the ideas or opinions of the AEF. Alberta Bits reserves the right to accept and/or edit material submitted for publication. The AEF makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained therein, but assumes no liability in cases of error or changing conditions. Any business relations or other activities undertaken as a result of the information contained in Alberta Bits, or arising therefrom, is the responsibility of the parties involved and not of the AEF. We welcome signed letters to the editor, but reserve the right to publish, edit for grammar, taste, and length. For reprint information, please contact execdir@albertaequestrian.com.
ALBERTA EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION
120, 251 Midpark Blvd SE Calgary, AB T2X 1S3 Toll Free: 1-877-463-6233 Phone: 403-253-4411 Fax: 403-252-5260 albertaequestrian.com
6 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
6 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
8 BITS & PIECES
Congratulations to the 2024 AEF Scholarship Recipients!
10 EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY 101
Some pointers for switching from auto to manual and capturing your horse’s best views in this beginner’s guide to equine photography.
13 SMART PHONE PHOTOGRAPHY
Monqiue Noble helps us better understand the photography powers within our Smartphones.
15 KID’S CORNER
If you’re planning an epic summer trail ride this year, Tania Millen has some advice before you go.
16 TRAILS
Tania Millen helps us plan for a fabulous season of fall trail riding.
21 A NEW WAY TO DO SCHOOL
This innovative collegiate school offers equestrians a flexible way to learn on their own terms, especially in conjunction with intensive show schedules.
22
HORSE KEEPING
The U of Calgary Vet Med department unveils ground-breaking research in the war against antimicrobial resistance.
With its extreme athletic ability, the Selle Français is taking the world by storm.
Let’s talk about
Photo by Alicia Nicole Photography.
Message from President, Jason Edworthy
The summer of 2024 has posed significant challenges for equestrians, ranging from extreme heat and drought to massive hailstones, concerns about contagious diseases, and devastating wildfires. Many recreational areas were closed to support firefighting efforts and ensure safety, while several competitions implemented measures or modifications to manage the heat due to hot weather.
In late May, with wildfires already active and evacuations underway, the AEF sent out links to our Equine Emergency Help Directory. This resource allows anyone to offer or seek assistance, including transport for horses, pasture or boarding, feed, and minerals, with locations shown for easy access to community support. Currently, there are nearly 200 offers of help in the directory! We’ve shared this multiple times on social media to ensure that as many horse owners as possible know about the generous support available.
The Government of Alberta has sought AEF’s help and advice for several recreation facility upgrades, including equestrian parking at West Bragg Creek and design aspects of a completely renewed Etherington Equestrian Campground. We are proud of our
relationship with the government and are delighted to be consulted and assist.
AEF is also completing work on a grant from Public Lands to create nearly 20 short videos aimed at providing basic information for new recreation/ trail riders. With reports of increased trailhead usage, these videos will help horse owners ride safely and educate everyone on sustainable practices.
AEF’s tireless and talented staff are always available to assist you with your horse or club needs, from sources for barns or coaches to answering membership questions and helping you find the right size and style of AEF swag.
Your AEF Board has been hard at work this summer. We’ve continued to develop our strategic plan, while the Finance Committee, along with AEF staff, has focused on improving financial reporting, identifying key indicators for non-profit organizations, and enhancing fiscal forecasting. Staff have also revised budget items to align with these changes and improve our financial efficiency.
Much of what we do for our members is possible because of generous donations from members and businesses. Please consider donating to our Equine Emergency
Disaster Fund, Athletic Development, Scholarships and Bursaries, our Trail Supporter Fund, or AEF in general. For information on obtaining a tax receipt or to learn more about each of these funds, please visit our donation page. Despite this summer’s challenges, I hope you enjoyed plenty of riding and quality time with your horse. As the season changes, some riders turn to indoor riding or take a winter break, while others bundle up, get winter shoes on their horses, and prepare for brisk rides in the snow. Whatever you choose, enjoy your time with your ponies, and stay healthy and safe! AB
Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu
As we welcome the arrival of fall once again, I am invigorated by the sense of renewal it brings. This season feels like a fresh start – a time to regroup and recharge after the vibrant activity of summer. Whether you spent your summer balancing family vacations, camping trips, or tending to your horses’ needs, fall offers a moment to pause and reflect. It’s an ideal opportunity to prioritize our wellbeing, both mentally and physically. So, whether you’re indulging in a pumpkin spice latte or relishing the crisp air during a trail ride, take a moment to replenish your spirit.
Looking back, this summer was a whirlwind of activity for us at AEF:
• We boosted our presence in communities across the province, attending competitions, rodeos, trail and recreation events. Our reach has never been stronger.
• We’ve forged meaningful connections with an expanding range of diverse audiences, including welcoming a local Indigenous community group as new members.
• Our team completed Indigenous Canada training, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to diversity,
Jason Edworthy, President
Sonia Dantu, Executive Director
equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). We are dedicated to continuing this important work.
• Our Equine Emergency Disaster Fund continued to provide crucial support to horse owners affected by wildfires, easing their financial burdens and ensuring the welfare of their animals.
• We laid the groundwork for the next phase of our growth by refining our five-year operational plan, aligning it closely with our strategic goals for sustained success.
• We saw a significant increase in Wild Rose sanctioned horse shows, underscoring the vitality of our community. We’ve also updated our Wild Rose Competitions Program to ensure our provincially sanctioned events remain safe, fair, and accessible for all involved. Watch for new coaching requirements at select competitions next year, ensuring we uphold vital safe sport practices.
• We celebrated a rise in NCCP certified coaches and instructors, facilitated by advancements in distance learning and online training.
• Behind the scenes, we’ve been hard at work developing a marketing and communication plan aimed at enhancing our connection with our valued audiences. Our goal is to improve how we gather feedback and deliver meaningful information, creating a true two-way communication channel.
B ut our journey continues—here’s what’s on the horizon this fall:
• It’s membership renewal season! Renew your membership to maintain your Acera Insurance benefits and unlock opportunities for competitions, certifications, funding, participation rewards, and more.
• Exclusive member benefits will include new access to a health and dental plan, travel insurance, and additional perks tailored for AEF members. Details to come!
• Refer a new member to AEF and earn five dollars towards your next membership renewal – a great way to save while spreading the word. Each referral adds up to a maximum of the cost of your membership.
• Our fall lineup of clinics promises something for everyone – coaches, officials, and riders alike. Stay tuned to our E-News and social media for details. Whether you’re preparing for the winter months, organizing a fall trail ride, or looking for schooling opportunities for your horse-crazy child, this edition of Alberta Bits is brimming with valuable insights. So, grab a cozy blanket and your favorite warm beverage, and immerse yourself in this issue. Take the time to unwind, recharge, and perhaps uncover new ways to enrich your equestrian journey. Who knows, you might even find inspiration from a scholarship winner – and perhaps that could be you next year!
We hope you enjoy this edition. AB
2024 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS: Tomorrow’s Leaders in Alberta’s Equine Care
We are proud to announce this year’s recipients of the important AEF Educational and Industry Scholarships. These awards assist exceptional individuals who have shown dedication, passion, and a commitment to excellence in the equine community. We are proud to support their educational journeys and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.
AEF Educational Scholarship : Sophia Lowie
Sophia Lowie has been a formidable presence in the equestrian world since she was just nine years old. In 2021, Sophia made history as the youngest female competitor invited to the Calgary Stampede Cowboy Up competition. Her impressive achievements continued in 2023 when she emerged as the Calgary Stampede Cowboy Up 1 and 2 Go Round Winner. As a result, she received a prestigious invitation to compete in the 2024 Cowboy Up Challenge.
Sophia’s many accomplishments extend beyond national borders. At the 2023 Extreme Cowboy Association World Finals in Texas, she was crowned the Youth World Champion and Go Around Champion. Closer to home, she has earned multiple championship titles across Alberta, excelling in Extreme Cowboy, Xtreme Wild Rose, Northern Alberta Reining Horse Association, and High School Rodeo Cow Horse competitions.
When she’s not in the arena, Sophia is focused on her studies, working towards becoming an Animal Health Technologist. Her ultimate goal is to pass the Registered Veterinary Tech exam, enabling her to work at local equine veterinary hospitals where she can combine her love for animals with her professional skills.
Photo Credit: Krystina Lynn Photography
AEF Educational Scholarship: Ava Scheerhoorn AEF Industry Scholarship: Bella Donaldson
Bella Donaldson is on an exciting journey to combine her passion for animals with a meaningful career. Currently enrolled in the Veterinary Technology Diploma Program, Bella is eager to enter the workforce and make a difference in the lives of the animals she loves.
The AEF and broader equine community have played a significant role in shaping Bella’s path. Through participation in horse clinics, camps, and shows, she has connected with like-minded individuals who have inspired her to become a positive influence in her community. Bella is also dedicated to giving back, volunteering at youth camps, and lending a helping hand around the barn.
Bella’s ultimate goal is to work as a Vet Tech, with the hope of one day realizing her dream of becoming an equine veterinarian. Her journey is just beginning, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact she will undoubtedly have on the world of equine care.
Ava Scheerhoorn’s journey with horses began almost as soon as she could walk. Growing up surrounded by the majestic animals, Ava was actively involved in a wide range of disciplines and organizations, including Pony Club, 4-H, Ranch Horse Versatility, Alberta Team Sorting Association, Reining Alberta, Gladys Ridge Riding Club, Northern Alberta Reined Cow Horse Club, and Small Spurs Rodeo. Despite her varied experiences, her true passion lies in Working Cow Horse.
Ava’s dedication to her craft has not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous awards for academic excellence, public speaking, and high-point achievements in the arena. Her commitment extends beyond competition; she is an avid volunteer, giving back to the community through various organizations.
With a lifelong fascination for veterinary medicine, Ava is now pursuing a diploma in Animal Health Technology, with aspirations of becoming a Registered Veterinarian. She is also considering further training in Equine Osteopathy, Massage, or Chiropractic. Ava dreams of working full-time at an Equine Veterinary Clinic, where she can dedicate her career to providing the best possible care for horses.
Photo Credit: Sarah Scheerhoorn
Photo Credit: Bella Donaldson
EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY
If you’re wanting to expand your mind – and your equine photography portfolio – here are some pointers for switching from auto to manual.
BY NATALIE JACKMAN & JENN WEBSTER
If you’re like many snap-happy individuals, the transition of photography from film to digital was a most welcomed development. No more expensive trips for film development and no more limits on the number of pictures you could take. Still, understanding your digital equipment can be a daunting process. The acronym “DSLR” stands for Digi-
tal Single-Lens Reflex camera and in a nutshell, it means these cameras combine the optics and the mechanisms of a single-lens reflex camera with a digital imaging sensor. With the reflex design system, the image captured on the camera’s sensor is also the image that is seen through the viewfinder. Light travels through a single lens and a mirror
is used to reflect a portion of that light through the viewfinder. There is a great amount of variance between DSLR cameras, and to fully understand the incredible technology you hold within your hands, it’s best to read your camera’s manual. Still, here is a general guide to the settings on your digital gem:
CAMERA BASICS
SHUTTER – This is the thin cover over the sensor of your DSLR camera that allows light to pass for a determined period of time, exposing a light-sensitive electronic sensor to light, capturing an image. Slower shutter speeds blur action, while faster shutter speeds will freeze action.
SHUTTER RELEASE BUTTON – Essentially the button you push to snap a picture. When pushed, this button moves the shutter and allows light to enter the sensor and capture an image. On most DSLRs, in auto mode, the shutter release button can be pressed half-way to enable the camera to autofocus the lens. Once it’s completely pushed, it will move the shutter from the sensor. The amount of light allowed in is determined by the amount of time the shutter has been allowed to be open.
LCD PANEL / CONTROL PANEL – You can view your basic camera settings in use here.
VIEWFINDER – An optical window that allows you to view your subject through the lens. Most DSLRs, however, also offer a Live View mode in which the main image sensor continuously captures a live image of the subject and displays it on the rear-panel LCD screen.
MODE DIAL – The dial that selects the mode of your DSLR.
AUTO – Typically the green setting on your mode dial. This mode focuses for you and selects all the settings needed to get the correct lighting and exposure.
NO FLASH – Same as Auto, but with the flash disabled.
PORTRAIT – Designed to produce softly focused backgrounds for flattering portraits.
LANDSCAPE – Designed to keep near and distant subjects in sharp focus.
NIGHT PORTRAIT – The same as Portrait but with the flash mode set to slow-sync, which results in a slower shutter speed to produce softer lighting and brighter backgrounds.
SPORTS – Selects faster shutter speed to capture moving subjects with less of a blur.
APERTURE – This mode determines how much light is let in through your lens and the depth of field. This is a fantastic setting when you want the subject to be clear but the background to be blurry.
PROGRAM – This mode automatically chooses the aperture and shutter speed for you, based on the amount of light that passes through the lens.
MANUAL – This setting gives you control of the shutter and aperture in order to get the correct exposure.
TAKING THE LEAP
For many amateur photographers, turning the camera’s mode from Auto to Manual is overwhelming to start. If you, too, find yourself in this category, mastering the manual is as simple as breaking it down into three concepts: ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. Here they are in a nutshell, to get you started:
ISO – In simple terms, ISO refers to film speed, and despite the fact this article concerns only digital cameras, ISO cameras still have the same function as older film cameras once did. ISO determines how sensitive your camera’s image sensor is to light. The lower the ISO number, the slower the speed. The higher the ISO number, the faster the speed. In a low light situation, a higher ISO will capture the image but may appear noisy or grainy.
KEY** Specifically in shooting an indoor horse show situation, you’ll want to crank your ISO up as high as the camera will allow (3200+) and open your aperture as wide as it will go (2.8 or lower, though this will depend on your lens). Set the camera to Tv (Timed Variable) and set your shutter speed to no less than 200 in order to slow the movement of legs and bobbing heads – go as high as the lighting will allow, 250, 320, etc., because the higher the shutter speed, the more you will freeze the action. However, you are at the mercy of the arena lighting which is often less than ideal, so take plenty of test images before the action starts. It is wise to take full advantage of the warm-up ring and go with whatever doesn’t result in a black, blob-like image. Also note that, unless you’re a pro with a proper flash setup, your flash will likely not be able to cover the distance required to hit your moving subject, rendering it useless and sucking your battery dry at the same time. Turn it off.
APERTURE – Aperture is measured in F-stops. Aperture regulates with the size of the opening in the lens
Photo Credit: Alicia Nicole Photography
Alicia Nicole Photography – “One of the most important aspects of good photography, is lighting.”
and the lower the F-stop, the more in focus your subject will be. The background will be blurry. One main point to note – it is important for the main subject of your photo to physically be in front of that which you wish to remain as the background.
KEY** If you’re the type who likes to focus on equine portraits, Aperture (Av – Aperture Priority) is the mode for you. Back up and set your focal length to between 50 and 150 mm as you frame your subject. You’ll want to select the largest aperture available on your lens to blur out the background and any distractions – f/2.8 to f/4.0 is ideal –but make sure you’re keeping the horse’s eye in sharp focus. A slight burring of the muzzle and ears is acceptable. Be sure to use a shutter speed of at least 1/125 second to freeze any camera shake or subject movement.
SHUTTER SPEED
– Shutter speed is the unit of measurement for the amount of time that the shutter is open, exposing the film or sensor to light. The shutter speed changes the way movement appears in photographs. Short shutter speeds are used to intentionally blur a moving subject for artistic effect, giving the impression of movement.
KEY** If you are shooting outdoor equine action, fast shutter speed is paramount to freeze the action, so you’ll need lots
of light to counterbalance. 1/1000 of a second is a good place to start, but don’t be afraid to experiment, as slowing it down leads to degrees of blur (legs in particular) that give the impression of movement. You’ll want to take a succession of images and those that are in focus are preferable, so set the shooting mode to High Speed Continuous. In continuous shooting mode, you can press the shutter button and hold it down to take several photos in a row without lifting your finger. In this mode the speed at which the camera takes the picture is much faster – a feature that allows digital cameras to truly outshine film.
You’ll also want the camera to do the hard part of keeping the action in focus as you track it. In AI-SERVO mode (AFC on Nikon or Continuous Focus on other models), the camera quickly refocuses on the subject as it moves before taking each picture. This greatly increases your chances of getting your subject in focus! AI-SERVO is predictive – it predicts where your subject will be and how fast it’s moving. To fully optimize your image, press the shutter halfway down and start tracking your subject’s movement before you take the picture, then press the button all the way down when you’re ready to shoot.
As the final step, you’ll want to switch from multi-point to single-point focusing, using the focus point at the center of the frame – it’s faster than letting the camera guess about what you want to focus on. AB
SMART PHOTOGRAPHY
Capturing Great Equine Pics
with Your Smartphone
BY MONIQUE NOBLE
One of the joys of smartphones is always having a great camera on hand for those moments or memories in the event you don’t have a real camera. As a photographer, I am still deeply attached to my cameras that allow for artistic license. However, as a mountain trail rider I am grateful for a phone that allows me to take amazing pictures without the weight or risk of equipment that comes with bringing my cameras on the trail.
Albeit, I did watch one of my phones tumble irretrievably down the face of a mountain… It was a good death for a phone and a reminder to back my photos up more often. Again, I was thankful it wasn’t my camera.
Smartphones are amazing in that they allow you to not have to think about aperture or ISO or light metering and allow you to play with angles and composition. I encourage you to do so, to capture some truly unique and interesting moments.
Here are some of my favourite go-to methods when I’m using my iPhone:
Groom Your Horse. Editing is a powerful tool, but nothing creates that glowing shine on a horse like proper grooming. A photo of a horse covered in mud is awesome and funny but if you want a truly beautiful snap, nothing beats cleanliness –make sure to clean out the horse’s nostrils and check for eye goobers as well.
Lighting. It can be tricky, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be. Golden hour will always be the best two times in a day for photography. These occur in the hours between dawn and daylight, and dusk and starlight. The light is a perfect mix of light and shadow that produces lovely images. It allows for detail without harsh reflections or squinting eyes.
Using lighting creatively can really amp up your images. For silhouettes, have your lighting behind your subject. For clear, well-lit portraits, have your lighting in front of your image – but watch for your own shadow and ensure it’s not in the image!
Catch Lights. These are the little white points of light reflection in an image. Think of the glare in an eye, or the glint of light off the silver piece on a bridle. These create a lot of interest in a photo and can bring it to life, but only if you can position your lighting or your subject properly.
Catch lights and close-up shooting are the little points of light in a photo that really bring life to a photo. This is an example of Macro mode (the “Flower” icon) on a iPhone 14 Pro.
Sunny days can be a challenge but the glorious shine the sun makes on your horse’s groomed coat is always breathtaking. The best way to get shots of a horse on a sunny day is to slightly angle the subject towards the light source. This creates a beautiful contrast between the shine of the coat and the shadows of the horse’s muscling.
Cloudy days are a photographer’s best friend; the light is easy to shoot in and cloudy skies make for wonderful backdrops.
Shooting indoors can be problematic, but generally smartphones do quite well adjusting to indoor shooting and have modes available to accommodate almost any shooting situation.
Call a Friend. Having someone else help position your horse is always helpful. A few treats in hand can help get ears up and create interested expressions, while an extra set of hands can also help keep a busy horse in check and help to pose them.
Keeping Your Subject Engaged. Treats are a great way to get ears up for a photo, but there are other effective ways to keep a horse looking at a camera. Have a recording of horse sounds on your phone (there actually are apps for this!). Or you can keep a recording of horses neighing in your voice memos and play that while simultaneously taking photos. Squeaky dog toys or shaking a Pringles can with some grain in it are other great/portable ways to capture your horse’s attention. Same goes for another horse… If there one is around, keep that equine behind you while you are shooting, or in the direction of where you want your subject to be looking.
Shoot, Shoot, Shoot. Take a ton of photos! Gone are the days of the 24-image roll of film. There are few limits to how many photos we want to take these days; just remember to erase the images you don’t want so they don’t take up valuable memory space. When photographing loose horses or from a moving saddle, I really enjoy using “live mode” and sport mode as they can capture images on the fly with pretty decent accuracy.
Learn about your smartphone’s camera options. Not just point-and-shoot-one-trick ponies, each model of smartphone has its own little camera secrets. It only takes a quick internet search to learn them!
A FEW TRICKS OF THE IPHONE THAT I OFTEN USE ARE:
Focus Lock – When lining your item up in on the screen, press on the screen and a yellow square will appear. If you continue to press on that square, AE/AF will appear and that allows you to remain focused on the central subject while moving your phone to include interesting details – this works best in stationary subjects.
Exposure Shift and Friends – When taking a photo with your phone there is a little arrow pointing up above the image capture area. If you press it, it will open a whole world of options to use while capturing images. It will allow you to adjust the light, access the timer, change the format of your image, etc. Find these features on your phone and play with them.
Flip Your Phone – I absolutely love capturing interesting angles and adding depth to my pictures by flipping my phone and shooting with the lens on the bottom, or alongside the image. It is such an easy and manageable way to put a new spin on a scene.
Modes – All cameras have them – the “Flower Mode” –which means “close up” or “Macro” and great for “eye” shots. Portrait mode automatically blurs out the area behind the main
subject – this can be great when you want to remove a background with editing later. Play with these modes and use them creatively. If you don’t like it, delete the image and try again.
“Flower” – The Flower symbol will come up on your lower left-hand screen when your sensors pick up a close object.
“Difference of the Flower” –
The difference between using Macro mode or not.
Postproduction Editing – Editing after the fact can be a fun and interesting process that you can learn about with a few quick internet searches. Until then, happy shooting! AB
Flipping your phone upside down when trying to capture low shots is an easy way to create interesting perspectives.
The difference between Portrait mode and Picture mode. (TOP IMAGE) This image demonstrates how Portrait blurs objects outside the range of focus, (BOTTOM IMAGE) Picture mode has a wider focal point.
CORNER KID’S
FABULOUS FALL TRAIL RIDING
BY TANIA MILLEN
Autumn is a time of change. As the days get cooler and shorter, horses on pasture may benefit from supplemental hay. Horses may need their shoes removed or snow pads and borium added. Parasite control (deworming) may be justified, too. But none of that limits riding. In fact, cooler days and less bugs often make trail riding more enjoyable. Plus, lower river levels allow riders to enjoy trails that may be inaccessible due to high water earlier in the year. So here are some tips to help you enjoy trail riding this season.
1. PREPARE FOR THE UNEXPECTED
Autumn weather can be unpredictable. Sudden rain squalls, snow at higher elevations, and early sunsets can all catch trail riders unaware. Autumn storms can induce rivers to ‘flash’ quickly, raising water levels and stranding riders. So before leaving on a ride, review the weather forecast and take suitable clothing for all potential situations.
Footing can be challenging, too. Frost, frozen mud, and creek ice can be slippery for horses, so be sure your horse has suitable hoof-wear.
Avoid areas where mating ungulates gather. Moose, deer, and elk may think horses are threats and charge unsuspecting riders. Bears are also a concern. During autumn they eat as much as possible to pack on weight before hibernation. Fattening up is paramount to bears’ survival, so they’re not keen to leave berry patches or fishing holes. Hence, when traveling through the bush, riders should talk loudly, sing, or have a clanging cowbell around their horse’s neck. If a bear is sighted, be prepared to turn around and leave it undisturbed.
2. TEN ESSENTIALS
There are 10 essential items that every rider should carry regardless of where they’re riding, who their
trail riding partners are, or the length of the ride. They include:
· Communication device (phone, emergency beacon, whistle).
· Navigation tools (GPS, maps, compass, flagging tape).
· First-aid kit (including an emergency blanket).
· Fire (lighter, matches, fire starter kit).
· Light (headlamp).
· Repair kit (knife, duct tape, binder twine).
· Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
· Food, water, identification, emergency contact information, and extra clothes. You may also want to carry bear spray, bear bangers, fly repellent, and toilet paper.
It’s wise to carry the ‘must-haves’ on your person so that if your horse merrily gallops off down the trail without you, it isn’t taking all the essentials, too. Some trail riders wear a vest that packs their essentials, while others use a fanny pack. I carry a knife, lighter, whistle, and emergency beacon in a pouch under my clothing. The other essentials are in pommel and saddle bags on my horse. Choose what works for you, and don’t leave home without it. Also, remember to tell someone where you’re going, when you expect to return, and what to do if you’re overdue.
When traveling through the bush, riders should talk loudly, sing, or have a clanging cowbell around their horse’s neck to deter bear encounters.
PHOTO CREDIT: Tania Millen
3. WHAT TO WEAR?
Layered clothing is key for autumn riding when chilly mornings give way to warm afternoons followed by brisk evenings. Start with moisture-wicking base layers on your
upper body, then add insulating layers like fleece or wool. Top that with a windproof and waterproof outer shell. Carry extra jackets in saddle bags.
Avoid riding in jeans. Cotton is lousy at retaining heat. When jeans get wet, body heat is quickly wicked away. Leggings made from synthetic materials are ideal, and they can be covered by rain pants, chaps, or chinks. Think practical over pretty.
A well-fitting helmet and heeled boots help ensure rider safety. Consider wearing thick wool socks and weatherproof gloves, too.
Remember that the weather changes fast in autumn. So bundle up and ensure your saddle bags have space to store extra layers.
4. TRAIL TACK AND EXTRAS
If you haven’t tricked out your saddle for trail riding, consider adding the following:
· A breast collar that prevents the saddle from slipping back when going uphill.
· A wide cinch or girth that spreads the pressure over a larger area for longer rides. Ensure cinches have padding under their buckles so they don’t bruise your horse.
· A back cinch (on western saddles) that prevents the cantle from tipping up when riding downhill.
· Pommel bags to reduce the weight in rear saddle bags.
We all share the trails. Remember that not everyone who loves the outdoors, understands horses. Be prepared to stop and chat with other users and ensure safe passage for all.
Having the right equipment is essential in the backcountry. This includes consideration of a breast collar to prevent your saddle from slipping back and weatherproof saddle bags. CREDIT: BAR XP Photo
The horse’s loins are equivalent to a rider’s lower back and are not designed to carry weight. So, limiting the weight on your horses’ loins helps prevent muscle strain.
· Lightweight, weatherproof saddle bags.
· Strings for tying on gear.
In autumn, consider adding tapaderos to your stirrups. They help keep your feet warm plus prevent a stick from catching in your stirrup and causing a wreck.
Place a halter and lead rope beneath your horse’s bridle, then your horse can be safely tied up during rest stops. Strap a cowbell around your horse’s neck, to make noise if needed.
Additional items you may wish to carry include: a hoof boot sized to your horse’s feet in case your horse loses a shoe or gets a stone bruise, an equine first-aid kit, and a saw or hatchet to clear downed trees.
5. SHARE THE TRAILS
Hikers, mountain bikers, and early bird skiers may travel the same trails as horseback riders. However, not all recreationalists know what to do when encountering horses. So be prepared to stop and chat with trail users. This helps ensure safe passage for all, plus it teaches your horse that big backpacks, clacking hiking poles, and speeding wheels, are indeed, human.
Use hitching rails but don’t leave horses unattended. Maintain good relations by taking home manure from parking lots and pushing it to the side of trails, where possible. Like all trail users, horseback riders are
responsible for minimizing environmental impact and helping others have positive experiences.
Autumn is a spectacular time to trail ride. Brightly coloured leaves, sparkling frost, and skiffs of snow add beauty to the scene while cool air and fit horses make longer jaunts possible. By carefully preparing for autumn adventures, riders and horses can safely extend their summer riding season. So get ready, then go out and enjoy the trails! AB
During autumn, it’s important to remember that the weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. Prepare for the unexpected.
CREDIT: BAR XP Photo
A NEW WAY TO DO SCHOOL
This flexible way of learning offers equestrians a program that allows them as students, to learn on their own terms.
STAND Collegiate School offers a hybrid program that lets students learn on their own terms. Unique and helpful for equestrian students, STAND offers a transformative learning environment that allows flexibility for the demanding schedule of competitive equestrian sports.
Founded on the principle of flexibility and personalized learning, STAND Collegiate School empowers students to excel both in academics and their equestrian careers.
Autumn, a passionate show jumper and STAND student, highlights the significant impact STAND Collegiate School has had on her journey.
“STAND has provided an opportunity for me to pursue my competitive show jumping while having an in-depth learning experience at home or on campus,” she says.
The flexibility of the program allows her to customize her school hours around her training and competition schedule.
“I am always travelling, so this program gives me the freedom to change the 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. school hours to whatever suits my schedule that day,” says Autumn. This flexibility ensures that Autumn can maintain a balanced commitment to both her education and equestrian career, without compromising on either.
STAND Collegiate School offers a dynamic blend of in-depth, personalized learning experiences that cater to each student’s academic needs. Whether learning from home or on campus, students benefit from a curriculum designed to accommodate their individual learning styles and pace. This personalized approach not only promotes academic growth, but also supports the
unique lifestyles of equestrian athletes who may require a non-traditional school schedule.
To learn more about how STAND Collegiate School can benefit aspiring equestrian athletes, visit their website at standschool.ca and discover a new approach to education designed for the modern athlete.
STAND Collegiate offers students the best of both worlds. PHOTO CREDIT: Kayla Rodgers
STAND student Autumn has found the freedom she needs to combine her competitive schedule with her academic requirements.
COMBINING ANCIENT WISDOM WITH CUTTING-EDGE SCIENCE
BY NIKKI KNOPP, COORDINATOR, DVPT. & COMMS, UCVM
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY
UCVM.
Harnessing Nature: UCalgary Vet Med’s groundbreaking research on worm-fighting plants and antimicrobial resistance.
At the University of Calgary, they’re all about starting something extraordinary, and their latest research initiatives are no exception. Deep in the heart of Alberta’s Sundre Equine Management Zone, a dynamic team is blending ancient wisdom with cuttingedge science to tackle the challenge of drug-resistant parasites in horses. Their work holds promise for other animals and humans as well.
Dr. Brielle Rosa leads a passionate team at the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM), exploring the fascinating practice of zoopharmacognosy. This practice involves wild animals selfmedicating using plants found in their environment. Partnering with local Cree Traditional Knowledge Keeper Brenda Holder, the team aims to discover compounds in local flora that could lead to the development of new antiparasitic drugs.
“This is about marrying traditional wisdom with modern science to create something potentially groundbreaking,” says Dr. Rosa.
By observing what plants feral horses in the Sundre Equine Management Zone are eating during high worm load periods, and cross-referencing with plants that Holder has identified as traditionally possessing anti-parasitic properties, they have identified nearly a dozen plants to study. Zeroing in on three of these, laboratory tests have confirmed the plants’ effectiveness in
killing worms in the test tube. The team is working towards translating this into an effective treatment for deworming animals.
Currently, the team is collaborating with Vogon Laboratories in Cochrane, AB, to identify the active compounds in these plant extracts.
“Many of our currently available antiparasitic drugs are becoming less effective because parasites are developing drug resistance,” Dr. Rosa emphasizes. This innovative research could be a game-changer in the fight against drug-resistant parasites.
Meanwhile, Dr. Marie-France Roy and Dr. Beverly Morrison are working with Dr. Rosa to also delve into the complexities of antimicrobial resistance and its cross-species transmission. This research focuses on the fecal E. coli population in Alberta horses. In a comprehensive sampling project also in the Sundre Equine Management Zone, the researchers discovered that while feral horses generally lacked antimicrobial-resistant E. coli, cograzing with cattle led to the acquisition of resistance to certain antimicrobial drugs commonly used in cattle. Moreover, this summer, the team identified a small herd of four feral horses (one stallion and three mares), which, while not co-grazing with cattle, were all harboring a multi-drug resistant E. coli that had not been isolated from any other feral horses.
“This underscores not only the
impact of antimicrobial drug use on resistance development but also the likely roles of host behavior, speciesspecies interactions and environmental contamination in the transmission of antimicrobial resistance,” explains Dr. Roy.
This research is crucial in understanding how drug resistance can spread across species and possibly through the environment, impacting both veterinary and human health. Bacteria are often not species-specific, meaning that horses, cows, and even humans can carry the same types of bacteria. By shedding light on these transmission dynamics, this work could inform better practices in managing drug use in livestock, thereby protecting both animal and human populations.
Dr. Rosa, Dr. Roy, and Dr. Morrison are not just starting something; they’re starting something that could transform veterinary medicine and beyond. By harnessing traditional knowledge and pioneering scientific research, they are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether it’s unlocking the secrets of worm-fighting plants or understanding the nuances of antimicrobial resistance, their work promises to bring about significant change by creating new solutions and helping animals and humans adapt to changing circumstances.
So, keep an eye on these three – they’re stirring up some serious innovation, and the ride has only just begun. AB
By harnessing traditional knowledge and pioneering scientific research, the UCVM is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Photos provided by UCVM
A last minute change in Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics saw Selle Français mare, Caracole de la Roque, bring home a dramatic silver with her rider Karl Cook.”Cara”, as she is known, is reportedly a sweet and genial mare outside of the ring, but loves her job as a show jumper and turns into a “beast” when in competition.
Photo - Public Domain
THE SELLE FRANÇAIS
Taking the world by leaps and bounds.
What do you get when you create a stud book that includes all the great European sport horse breeds and start refining them into a breed of their own? You get a horse with a certain je ne sais quoi: a quiet, indiscernible quality that speaks to the depths of its history,
BY MONIQUE NOBLE
much like the country of France itself. The beautiful and proven breed of sport horse known as the Selle Français (SF) – which translates somewhat less impressively, as literally “French Saddle” – is a combination of the best-of-the-best bloodlines. A more recently established
breed, the SF stud book was opened in France in 1958. More concerned with performance than bloodlines, it was created when all the region’s half-blood horses were united under one “breed.” Heavily influenced by local French Norman breeding, the formative crosses
were commonly of lighter stock such as Arabians, Thoroughbreds, and French Trotters. Since the SF studbook was established, the breed has been almost exclusively used and bred as a sport horse.
While various breeds can still be registered in the SF studbook, they must pass a rigorous inspection before they are included. With every horse passing the high standards required to be registered, the breed has become refined and is starting to show a quality and athleticism that is distinctly SF in a very short period of time. Bred to perform great feats of athleticism, it is no surprise that this breed has started to demonstrate a definitive presence on the world stages of equestrian sport. They excel in jumping and three-day eventing. While they can perform in other events such as dressage, they have an economy of gait that, while serving them well in sport, can leave them looking a little less flashy than other dressage horses with more supple and elastic movement. Still, the SF have flourished globally as fierce competitors and, since the 1960s, there have been many SF horses leaving the competition ring with ribbons and reputations as world-leading sport horses, in everything from local shows to the Olympics.
As the SF is such a recently established breed with a diverse range of other contributing breeds, the SF is beginning to display distinct features that present themselves in a variety of ways. Because of this, the studbook does not look for conformational traits, but instead, looks for excellence. Chapters of the ANSF (Association nationale du selle Français, or National Association of French Saddle Horses) are now present throughout the globe and they all have the same stringent standards. All horses registered as SF must pass a review by a breeding committee. The committee will assess the candidate horse on type (physical appearance), gaits, performance records, pedigree, and health. Candidates may also be required to undergo inspections by ANSF-appointed judges. The age of the horse in question may also require it to have passed other conditions for
While most Selle Français are bay or chestnut, there are a few horses of a different colour. Irelkao l’Evidence is a SF stallion based in France who has made a name for himself with his very good jumping ability. He has an excellent balance, a good technique and elasticity. He is an excellent example of how the breed can vary in appearance. Photo provided by Suzanne Gomez
The Selle Français are very athletic, excelling in jumping and three-day eventing.
acceptance. For example, if a particular horse is over six years of age, the animal must boast top 20 (and in some cases, top ten) placings in national or international championships in order to be considered. As the horse gets older, the requirements continue to increase. Through these standards, based on excellence of performance, all future progeny registered as SF come from proven sport horse parents and should be up to the challenge of competing at the highest levels.
The varied breeds that produced
the SF make setting exacting breed standards difficult, but as the breed has become more in demand – and breeding has increased – certain qualities are becoming recognizable traits. As sport horses they are generally quite tall and range from 15.1 hands to 17.3 hands high. Bred to be athletes, they are a powerful animal. Strong hooves carry strong, muscular legs with excellent bone and broad, durable joints. The hind end is extremely muscular and powerful and blends smoothly into a slightly angled croup. Their bodies are short coupled but have well-sprung ribs, allowing for ample lung expansion and body movement during exercise. Deep chested and well balanced into their shoulders, the SF has an excellent range of motion in the front end, allowing for a lofty carriage while navigating jumps and terrain. A long neck with an elevated frame carries a noble head with typically a straight or slightly roman-nosed profile. Large, alert eyes set below a broad forehead and alert and expressive ears are indicative of the breed’s intelligence and awareness.
With excellent breeding programs for Selle Français spreading throughout the world, the future looks bright.
Despite their colourful genealogy, SF are usually chestnut or bay in colour with a generous, but not overly so, amount of mane and tail hair. Other colours, such as grey, are not uncommon. White features like socks and facial markings are also seen in the breed. Keenly alert and interested in their surroundings, SF horses are bright and bold. They are very social, enjoy their people, and eagerly work to achieve a common goal, making them excellent mounts in the sporting world. Fearless and athletic, they have incredible scope and agility with an almost inexhaustible stamina. Their movement is rhythmic, powerful, and balanced with great cadence and consistency. Their amenable and patient personalities, paired with an energetic nature and intelligence, make them quick and curious learners in most disciplines.
The SF’ ability to excel in all disciplines
Selle Français are usually chestnut or bay in colour with a generous, but not overly so, amount of mane and tail hair.
of horse sport has been noticed globally, and that excellence has already led this relatively new breed to influence and enhance other breeds of sport horses. SF bloodlines have supported such venerated breeds as the Oldenburg
and Holsteiner and contributed to the creation of newer warmblood breeds such as the Zangersheide.
Aware of the SF’ ability to bring excellence to a breeding program, Meagan Vandergoot of Evergreen Equestrian near Sylvan Lake, Alta., “jumped” at the chance to add SF blood to her operation. The 2019 SF stallion known as “Joey” was imported from France to breed to Canadian Warmblood mares. After passing his Canadian Warmblood Horse Breeders’ Association (CWHBA) inspection in 2023, Joey is now dually registered as both a CWHBA and a SF stallion. Vandergoot is looking forward to Joey’s first foals arriving in 2025 and is excited to see if the progeny has their sire’s bold and friendly nature. While currently only breeding her own stock, she is hoping to eventually breed Joey to outside mares and increase
Now Standing at Evergreen Equestrian near Sylvan Lake, AB, five-year-old Selle Français stud “Joey” is also now registered as a Canadian Warmblood and will hopefully be passing his style and sweet temperament to his future progeny. Photo provided by Evergreen Equestrian
Photo Ruth Armstrong of Armstrong Ranch.
the number of SF in Canada, while also strengthening the bloodlines of Canadian-bred horses.
Although SF horses are generally not a common sight in Alberta, there are a few around. Lisa Huhn of EQ Awakening Center: TLD Holistic Equine has encountered three, including her gelding “Nibbs.” Nibbs is on the larger side of the scale at 17.2 hh but is a gentleman on the ground. Huhn appreciates the breed’s ability to have such cadenced and balanced strides in all gaits. She notes they cover ground and seem to have boundless energy compared to other warmbloods or Quarter Horses. Huhn says, “I like the long, lean look of them, too, and their intelligent, respectful, and calm handling.”
This past summer, United States
equestrian Karl Cook and SF mare Caracole de la Roque were awarded a silver medal during the 2024 Paris Olympics. With this winning performance, and 60 years of Olympic and world cup accomplishments boasted by the breed, it is without a doubt that SF are becoming an essential part of the equine sport world. In a 65-year time frame, the SF went from being an upstart new breed of warmblood to becoming, as of 2013, the third best show jumping breed/studbook in the world. SF jumping greats like stallions Jappeloup and Baloubet du Rouet have both won Olympic Gold medals and World Cup Finals, being followed by SF mares like Dubai De Cedre and Caracole. There is little doubt that the future of the breed is bright and bold. Bred with sport in
mind, the breed is adaptable, strong, well suited to travelling, and hardy. SF are also currently winning in sports like vaulting, driving, and competitive trail riding. Additionally, the SF is also being bred to Thoroughbreds and Arabians to produce racehorses in France, which led to the creation of yet another new studbook (the hallmark of a new breed) called the “Autre Que Pur-Sang” or AQPS. Moreover, these horses are becoming increasingly successful in the world of steeplechase. The SF studbook may not promise uniformity of breed through its bloodlines. It does, however, promise excellence. It cannot be denied that this promise is being kept, as this phenomenal breed of sport horse continues to excel at every opportunity AB
Despite being a relatively new breed, their excellence in sports such as eventing have given the SF a global presence. Selle Français stallion, Frenchman, based out of Ontario jumps this eventing course with ease and style. Photo provided by Ruth Armstrong of Armstrong Farm.
LET’S TALK ABOUT CLUBS
It will come as no surprise that there are hundreds of horse clubs in Alberta, some of them going back a hundred years or more. These organizations come in all shapes and sizes with interests and activities that embrace every possible aspect of life with and around horses.
The horse culture is as entrenched in Alberta as it is anywhere on the planet and we are always thankful for being an active part of the community.
We often hear questions about the insurance needs of breed and discipline groups (horse clubs) – and the members that make up the group.
A few facts:
Many clubs register themselves as not for profit or charitable organizations to take advantage of grants and funding that might be available from a variety of sources. Having “legal status” is typically a requirement for funding and is an important issue when it comes to insurance. As the risk management / insurance partner for AEF, we offer coverage to registered entities (the club itself) for a variety of exposures, including general liability covering bodily injury and/or property damage claims that could be brought against the organization and, separately, management risks (directors’ and officers’ insurance) that are inherent in the operations of the club.
The next question has to do with insurance for the members that make up the club. Are they covered by the club policy? The typical answer is “NO.” The club insurance covers the club (as an entity unto itself), the board, employees if there are any, other volunteers, and landowners where the activities of the club are undertaken for their declared operations and activities.
The policy issued in the name of the club does not cover members for their own and very separate exposures as horse owners and participants in club activities.
As part of our service offering through and with AEF, we offer clubs, groups, and organizations very low cost insurance to cover their many and varied operations – but to do so, we mandate that all active riding/driving members of the club must also be members of AEF.
Individual membership in AEF includes a $5 million personal liability insurance policy – automatically covering the member for any number of horses owned, leased, borrowed, and used for personal purposes – covering them 24/7, anywhere in the world.
When the club takes advantage of our program:
a) The club can acquire very low cost insurance with very high limits (sometimes the insurance policies are the ONLY expense the club actually has and we want to keep costs down).
b) AEF can provide access to the club to confirm their actively participating members, or someone participating at one of their events, has their AEF membership in place by simply verifying the AEF membership number. This helps to mitigate some claims that might be directed at the club, even when the actual incident may have been caused by a member’s horse.
c) The club is contributing to the health of AEF by encouraging membership in the provincial association so that the good work that AEF does on behalf of the whole horse community in Alberta continues.
If you have any questions, just let us know. Insurance for horses and their people – it’s what we do! Contact us at: agri@ acera.ca or 1-800-670-1877.
Michael (Mike) A. King, Partner National Practice Leader – Equine
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