POSING PONIES

HOW TO GET THE PERFECT PIC OF YOUR PONY

We all love looking at photos of our favourite pony, but how do you make sure you capture him looking at his best? Here are a few tips for getting the best photograph possible of your pony pal:

1. The first thing you need to do is recruit a friend or two to help you with the process. There’s a lot to organise in getting your pony ready for his photoshoot, and the more people you have there, the easier it will be.

2. Then you need to make sure your pony is looking his very best. You should give him a thorough groom, wash off any stubborn stains and apply some shine spray to his coat, mane and tail. Once you’ve got him looking slick, you’re ready to go!

3. Next up is to make the scene of your photo look great. It’s no use having a beautiful pony if you stand him against an ugly backdrop. Try to choose the prettiest part of your yard and tidy up any yard equipment lying around.

4. Once you’ve decided on your location and given it a quick spring clean, you need to look at which direction the light is shining. Ideally, you want the light to come from behind the camera, not behind your pony for your photographs.

5. The next challenge is to get your pony standing in the position you require for the image. Think about which angle will capture your pony’s best side too. Do you want him to be head on to the camera, at an angle or maybe even side-on? Check how his weight is distributed to ensure he isn’t leaning to one side or the other or tipping forwards over his front legs. Ideally, you want him to stand square.

6. You must always check that your camera settings are correct, and remember to make sure the lens is clean!

7. Once you are ready with your camera, you can get one friend to hold your pony and the other to stand at a distance jiggling a bag of treats to help encourage him to put his ears forward.

8. Do a final check to see that your pony is in focus, and then snap away! It’s always a good idea to take more pictures than less so that you have a good chance of getting one you are happy with.

9. Editing your pictures afterwards is a critical step in the process. Of course, you need a shot that is set up well in the first place, but editing really does add those finishing touches and create magazine-worthy images!