OLYMPIC PHOTOGRAPHY
Pauline Von Hardenberg
Horses and photography have been my two greatest passions ever since I was young, so combining them to become a professional equestrian photographer in my adult life came naturally to me. Around 12 years ago, I began working for German equestrian magazines, which allowed me to cover incredible events and travel to major championships worldwide, including the 2016 Rio de Janeiro and 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The Olympics are as meaningful for sports photographers as they are for athletes. We might not win medals, but we certainly win photos of a lifetime. The thrill of being close to the action—capturing raw emotions, victories, and defeats—is incomparable. Those goosebump moments, the excitement, and the effort to get the perfect shot are indescribable. Therefore, it is not an exaggeration to say that the Olympics is one of the greatest experiences in the world for athletes and photographers alike.
I believe Versailles was the most special Olympic venue the equestrian world has ever seen. For two weeks, we were all captivated by the stunning Palace of Versailles and the cross-country course winding through its gardens. One joy of the Olympics is reconnecting with international photographers, sharing experiences, and driving each other to excel. Our photo manager ensured excellent working conditions, but it is on us to stay motivated. The logistics are impressive, with cables running all around the field to send images immediately. I still recall Rio’s cross-country day, where I nearly faltered. Excited, I shot blurry images of Michael Jung, except one!
This article first appeared in PRISMA, Issue 20.