EQUESTRIAN PHOTOGRAPHY AT SCOPE

Charlotte Davies

For the last four years, I’ve been the Championship Ring photographer at the Scope National Equestrian Festival, in Cheshire, England. Every year we have 6 days of intense competition, with thousands of horses and riders from across the UK battling it out for the prestigious titles available. As a photographer, I am in the prime position to capture these athletes at the top of their sport. Seeing my photos go up on their social media with thousands of likes and comments always comes as a much-needed boost after a 10-hour shift carrying a 3kg camera, sometimes in the pouring rain!

Aside from being at the mercy of the elements, there’s nothing not to love about sports. Emotions run so high, and I get to witness the sheer elation of victory on people’s faces. The Junior sections are particularly tense, as these Championships are young athletes’ best shots at getting headhunted for international competitions, in turn a step closer to future Olympic dreams. The prospect of your work going up on an Olympian's living room wall, or even just their social media, is a ridiculously exciting one!

Alongside competitions, I also do a bit of equine portraiture. My favourite shots are the ones that happen accidentally, because there is no way to force any of their movements or facial expressions – they always capture the most honest reflection of both the people and horses! In terms of how I got into this job, I started by simply attending and practicing at local competitions, until I was spotted and recruited to work for my current agency. So, if you’re at all interested in sports photography, my best advice is to turn up and do it! Refine your skills and push for recognition!

This article first appeared in PRISMA, Issue 1.