Capturing Elegance at the Young Horse Show: Lara & Estrella in Action

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the Young Horse Show at the Stellenbosch District Riding Club. As an equine photographer based in Cape Town, I was there to support and photograph Lara and her stunning horse, Estrella, who was beautifully bred by Karorado Nooitgedacht Stud. The atmosphere was an absolute delight—despite being a competitive event, there was an undeniable sense of calm, making it the perfect setting for capturing truly special moments.

Equine photography in Cape Town

The day started off with a drizzle and gloomy skies, setting a dramatic tone for the early morning classes. However, as if perfectly timed, the weather cleared just in time for Lara’s events, allowing for crisp, natural light—an equine photographer’s dream! It was an honour to photograph Lara and Estrella during their dressage test, and they performed exceptionally well. Seeing the bond between horse and rider unfold in the arena was nothing short of magical.

From the precision of each movement to the grace with which Estrella carried herself, every moment was a testament to their hard work and dedication. The beauty of dressage lies in the harmony between horse and rider, and through my lens, I was able to freeze those fleeting, elegant moments in time. Every soft cue Lara gave, every perfect transition Estrella executed—it was poetry in motion.

One of the things that stood out the most at the Young Horse Show was the supportive and encouraging environment. Even though it was a competitive event, there was a strong sense of camaraderie among riders, trainers, and spectators. Everyone was there to celebrate the incredible young horses and their progress, and it was truly inspiring to witness. Events like these are a great reminder of the dedication and passion that drive equestrians forward, from training sessions at home to the adrenaline of competition day.

Watching the young horses gain confidence in the ring was a joy. Some were experiencing their first big show atmosphere, and despite the nerves, they rose to the occasion beautifully. The Young Horse Show is such an important stepping stone for these talented equines, helping them gain valuable experience in a structured and welcoming environment. As a photographer, I love capturing these defining moments—the small victories, the quiet focus, and the joy of partnership between horse and rider.

Equine photography in Cape Town

Why You Should Capture Your Equine Events

Whether you’re competing in dressage, showjumping, or just attending an event to celebrate your equestrian journey, having professional photos ensures that those memories are preserved forever. The dedication, the partnership, the triumphs—each of these deserves to be captured with artistry and care. If you’re ever in need of someone to document your event, from the warm-ups to the final salute, I’m your girl!

The importance of high-quality equine photography goes beyond just memories—it also helps riders and trainers analyse their performances, appreciate their progress, and share their journey with loved ones. Social media has become a major platform for equestrians to showcase their hard work, and having professional photos can truly elevate the way you share your story.

With my expertise in equine photography in Cape Town, I focus on creating timeless images that tell your story in the most beautiful and authentic way. If you’re planning your next event and want to ensure that those special moments don’t go unnoticed, let’s chat!

📷 Book your equine event photoshoot today and let’s create stunning imagery that you’ll treasure for years to come. Reach out to me, and let’s make magic happen!