When it comes to showcasing the beauty and power of top-tier stallions, few things are as exciting as a professional photo and video shoot. Today, I had the absolute pleasure of working with my two incredible stallions, VS Code Red and First Thingz First, for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. We teamed up with the talented Kirstie Marie Photography and her husband, Jake, a phenomenal videographer, to capture some breathtaking moments.
The Magic of Capturing Stallions in Action
The goal of this shoot was to create professional-grade photos and videos that will be used for 2025. While we were hoping for perfect behavior from the boys, anyone familiar with stallions knows that they can have a mind of their own! Still, I couldn't have been prouder of how well VS Code Red and First Thingz First performed. They looked absolutely majestic, showcasing their strength, movement, and undeniable presence in front of the camera.
Our shoot included a mix of headshots, action shots, and dynamic footage to highlight each stallion's unique qualities. While VS Code Red is already an established superstar, First Thingz First is stepping into the spotlight and proving why he's one to watch in the show ring.
From the Breeding Shed to the Show Ring
One of the most fascinating aspects of this shoot was how seamlessly these stallions transitioned from their breeding schedule back into show shape. Just five days ago, they were in full horse breeding mode, yet today, they performed like seasoned competitors. It's incredible to see how adaptable and talented they are! This ability to switch gears so quickly is a testament to their incredible training and the careful management that goes into preparing top stallions for both the breeding season and the show ring.
Fashion, Wind, and the Struggles of Perfect Hair
Anyone who knows me knows that getting my hair just right for a photo shoot is always a challenge - especially when the wind decides to make things extra difficult! But honestly, all of that fades away when you're working with horses as stunning as these two. Their presence and charisma steal the show every single time.
Kiry Marie Photography did an outstanding job capturing the bond I share with VS Code Red and First Thingz First. She truly understands how to highlight a horse's best angles while keeping the overall aesthetic classy and professional. Her work is a must-follow for anyone who appreciates high-quality equine photography.
Balancing Beauty and Performance
One of the interesting aspects of this shoot was the balance between photo-perfect moments and actual performance footage. In pictures, a stallion can look polished, poised, and flawless. However, in videos, you see the raw, unfiltered movement, which tells an entirely different story. This is why we focused on capturing both stills and action shots. Whether it's a perfectly posed moment or a breathtaking lead change in motion, both forms of media showcase what makes these horses truly special.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With this photo and video shoot wrapped up, I can't help but feel even more excited about what's ahead in 2025. Running Springs continues to be the heart of my equestrian journey, housing many of my incredible horses, and I am beyond grateful to be part of this journey. VS Code Red and First Thingz First have so much potential, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for them in the show ring and beyond.
What's Your Favorite Moment?
I'd love to hear from you! Which part of this behind-the-scenes experience did you enjoy the most? Did you love seeing VS Code Red in action, or were you more drawn to the powerful presence of First Thingz First?
Stay tuned for even more content from this incredible shoot, and be sure to follow along as we prepare for another amazing year of showing, breeding, and celebrating these incredible stallions!
See you in the next one! 💕🐴
1 comment
I love watching everything about you your family and your ranch thank you for sharing