COTSWOLD Feature
Photo finish
Horses are an enduring feature of the Cotswolds. From starting-out ponies to highly-trained thoroughbreds, they are a familiar sight in the landscape. By Julie Dolphin
EQUESTRIAN pursuits are widespread and world-class events such as Cheltenham Gold Cup, Badminton Horse Trials and The Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park reinforce the region’s “horsey” reputation. It was this unbridled passion for all
things equestrian that prompted professional photographer Jo Hansford to capture horses on camera, with a particular focus on the bond between animal and owner. Jo, who has been a photographer for 20
years, said: “Horses are so unique in their shape, their majesty and beauty. Whether it’s a 16 hands thoroughbred stallion or a tiny, woolly Shetland, they all have their own spirit and character and I had an overwhelming desire to record that in my work. “I also wanted to capture the incredible
love an owner has for its horse. Getting both to work together in front of the
Inspiring life in the Cotswolds
camera is wonderful to witness.” One of Jo’s most heart-warning shoots
was in Berkeley, Gloucestershire, with dressage rider Flo Dawes and her horse Rommy. “Flo rides for England in international
dressage competitions aimed at young riders. Since she’s been with Rommy, she’s had amazing success. They are inseparable both on and off the competition field but when Flo is in the saddle Rommy is completely in his element. This special partnership was a joy to photograph.” But the work is not without its
challenges. “Horses are beautiful but also highly
intelligent and sensitive, reacting to everything around them. One step in the wrong direction or a wrong angle and a horse can go from appearing incredibly powerful to looking like a donkey, although I’ve nothing against donkeys,”
added Jo It was thoroughbred mare Bertina that
kept Jo on her toes during a recent shoot in Malmesbury, Wiltshire. “Bertina is a stunning horse but very
highly strung. There was a lot going on during the shoot and she was well aware of the camera, lights and people around her. It was a real challenge just to get her to stand still with her ears forward. It didn’t happen for more than a few seconds at a time. In the end, we got a cracking shot but it took patience and an understanding of the mind and instincts of a horse. “That said, I had an easier time with a
pony called Hercules. He was so relaxed, I was able to use balloons in one of the shots. Normally, they would spook out a horse but he didn’t bat an eyelid! But whatever the nature of the horse, the photo shoots are always fun and enjoyable for animal and owner.”
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