How to Take Equine Conformation Photos

Conformation photos are used to judge a horse's build and conformity to breed standards. Good conformation is considered essential in show horses and horses that will be used for breeding. Taking conformation photos requires a certain amount of practice and skill because the photos and the horse have to present properly in order for the photo to provide an accurate view of the horse's good and bad characteristics. Conformation photos are often sent to breed registries as well as potential buyers if a horse is for sale or up for stud.

Things You'll Need

  • High-quality digital camera
  • Tripod
  • Halter
  • Lead rope
  • Clear area
  • Helper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pick a sunny or slightly overcast day to take your conformation pictures. Natural lighting is ideal for conformation pictures. The best lighting is normally in the morning or late afternoon.

    • 2

      Wash and groom horse until he is in prime show condition. The horse's mane should be styled according to breed standards, hooves should be recently trimmed and polished and the horse should appear to be the picture of cleanliness and health.

    • 3

      Put halter and lead rope on horse and lead him to a clean area free of debris or distractions. The background for your photo should be neat and clean with good lighting (no shadows or shade trees). It also should contrast with the color of the horse so the horse is clearly visible against it. Clear, treeless pastures work well for conformation photo backgrounds, as do the outside of barn walls.

    • 4

      Use a tripod for your camera. The sun should be to your back. The camera should be positioned at roughly the same height as the horse's stomach. The pictures should be taken looking straight at the horse. Do not angle more toward one side or the other, as it will skew the appearance of the horse's conformation.

    • 5

      Set the horse in proper position. Most competitors train the horse in advance, but you should be able to get your horse into position without too much work. The horse should be standing square with weight on all four legs. His neck should be stretched out slightly at a normal level. His ears should be pointed forward, not laid back or flopping sideways. It is your helper's job to get the horse to stand in position and stay there.

    • 6

      Take as many photos as possible. Reposition the horse several times and take pictures of both of his sides, depending on the purposes of your photograph.