THE ART OF PHOTOGRAPHY

It is no secret that Henrike H ormann is one of the most talented and beloved Arabian horse female photographers of our time, with a long list of spectacular achievements to her name. The stunning beauty and charisma of the Arabian horse have been captured by her lenses at the most important international shows for the best studs in the world. The opportunity to interview this immense artist for the beautiful Summer edition 2023 was an absolute pleasure.

AN INTERVIEW BY Sonia

Smaldone

H e n r i k e

Who is Henrike Hörmann, exactly?

I am a Photographer and Media Designer from Germany living on an old farm with my 2 Great Swiss Mountain Dogs and 26 Arabian Horses.

How did you become a photographer? Why did you choose the Arabian Horse as your favourite subject to photograph?

Photography was part of my studies at the University, but let us say: “It’s in the family…I already grew up with a camera in my hands, because my father and grandfather loved to capture family moments all the time. As a breeder of Arabian Horses, it was just a question of time that I also took pictures of horses, at home and during presentations or shows.

Which Arabian horse has won your heart as a photographer? Why?

It is difficult to name just one horse as I have had the pleasure to take pictures of many beautiful, showy and impressive horses in the past years.

What are your current commitments as a photographer? Are you working for any stud (s) or show organizations? In which country?

I am working for the European Breeders Trust AG, for which I am also doing the design work, social media and video editing, besides taking pictures at the events they are organizing. As well as for Arabian Futurity Europe.

Since years I am working with Privilege SFQ - Belgium and I am also covering some events for other Training Centers like Obi Training Center - Belgium and Schoukens Training Center - Belgium. I am taking pictures for Al Wajba StudQatar and worked in the past for example for Al Shaqab - Qatar, Al Zobair Stud

- UAE, Akmal Stud - KSA and Ajmal Stud

- KSA

As a freelancer I am covering Arabian Horse Shows for different Organizers such as: Alrubatiya Int. Show - Oman, Al Shiraa Int. Show - Abu Dhabi, Arabian Horse Weekend - The Netherlands, the City of Kings’Show -France and maybe some more Shows in Europe.

Henrike, how would you describe your photography style in one word?

Different, if it comes to People & Atmosphere!

Which is your favourite lens? Why?

I mostly use my 70-200mm lenses because it gives me the opportunity to zoom in if necessary.

When breeders call you to do a horse shooting, do you take any essential items besides a camera and lens?

Rarely...sometimes I use accessories or flowers but most of the time, I try to work with the natural surroundings of the location. Exceptions could be studio settings or specific backgrounds which need to be prepared in advance.

Henrike, what elements make the best picture stand out from the average?

It is all about emotions and expression.

How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?

Practice, practice, practice... This year I will have my first-time photography workshop and reallyI look forward to it!

Which tools do you use for post/processing?

Lightroom and Photoshop.

What is the least enjoyable part of being a photographer? And the most rewarding part?

The most enjoyable moments are taking sneaky pictures of people who are really not realizing it and you get the best natural moments. The post-production of these pictures makes me smile while working. For me as a person who works alone at the shows the most difficult part can be to send out pictures directly after taking them, because I could miss some other special moments in the meantime. I prefer to make my selection after each show day and work on the best ones before sending them out.

Who are other photographers you regard as idols in this sector? (If any)

I love the light in the pictuires of Glenn Jacobs and Alessio Azzali and also the composition. The upcoming Workshop with April Visel will be an incredible opportunity for me to learn a lot.

What are some of the biggest lessons in the Art of Photography rotating around the Arabian horse you have learned along the way?

With other commitments like my horses at home and my regular job, I sometimes struggle to make spontaneous invitations possible. I need a little time in advance to organize everything.

What are your hopes and dreams or future goals? Where do you see yourself in the next ten years?

In this world you often don’t even know where you will be in the next ten weeks so it’s difficult for me to say where I see myself in ten years... but I hope I will still be able to travel the world for taking pictures of wonderful Arabian Horses at beautiful locations.

Henrike, the Spring Breeding Season is in full swing. What is your message to the international breeders’ community?

Enjoy the foaling season…to see the little beauties exploring the world is one of the most beautiful moments in life!

Henrike, it has been an absolute pleasure to speak with you and witness the passion and dedication you bring to your work. We look forward to seeing what incredible images you will capture next. Thank you for sharing your time and talent with us!

Henrike Hörmann

+49 171 52 51 032 info@hh-photography-design.de hh-photography-design.de

2023 bay colt Abha Omani x Persia Le Soleil