Holly and Dolly – A Birthday Gift to Remember
When Rachel first contacted me, I knew this shoot was going to be something special. She wanted to surprise her niece Holly with a photography experience for her 18th birthday, a celebration of the bond between Holly and her beautiful horse, Dolly. Rachel described Holly as the kindest, loveliest human and Dolly as a gorgeous black and white cob with the most amazing personality. The gift was more than just a photo shoot. It was a way to mark a moment in time before Holly steps into adulthood, to preserve a friendship that has shaped so much of who she is.
We planned the shoot for a May evening, the perfect time of year when the light lingers softly and everything feels alive. The location was Newton Farm, a yard I was delighted to visit, conveniently right opposite my best friend’s house, which made it feel even more personal. The weather couldn’t have been better. The afternoon light was golden, warm, and full of promise, the kind of light photographers dream of.
We began beside a red brick barn, its wooden cladding glowing in the late sun. Holly wore a classic country outfit of jeans, a white top, a soft gilet, and her long brown yard boots. Dolly stood proudly in her leather headcollar, the perfect partner to Holly’s relaxed look. Together they were the picture of natural elegance, the kind of effortless connection you can’t stage.
Next, we moved to one of my favourite types of locations, a stable with racing heritage green doors and traditional brickwork. Holly changed into a soft frilled white top and Dolly, of course, took it all in her stride. There’s something about these timeless stables that always captures my attention, and they made the perfect backdrop for this moment between them.
As the light began to dip lower, Holly changed into a sweet summer dress paired with her long boots, keeping that equestrian touch while adding a hint of softness. The trees behind them caught the golden light and everything seemed to sparkle, that magical backlight every photographer quietly hopes for.
And then came the finale. Holly’s prom dress. Dolly didn’t blink, just stood quietly and looked at her like she’d seen it all before. The contrast between the elegance of the dress and the calm steadiness of this gentle cob made it the perfect way to end the evening.
Holly’s mum, Nicky, came along to help and was a star throughout, holding gilets, shoes, and accessories, and helping Holly step gracefully into her prom dress for the final set. It was a team effort full of laughter and warmth, and the results are simply stunning.
To me, this is what photography is all about, capturing a story, a connection, and the small moments that matter most. Holly and Dolly’s shoot is one I won’t forget, a reminder of how meaningful these sessions can be when they’re wrapped up in love and thoughtfulness.
If you’d like to create something just as personal, whether as a gift or for yourself, you can request a brochure or get in touch to find out more about booking your own equine portrait experience.
