The value of professional photography.
Hiring a professional photographer is more than just booking someone with a camera — it’s an investment in experience, artistry, and storytelling. You’re not only paying for the time spent during your session, but for the years of dedication, training, and care that go into capturing images that truly reflect the bond you share with your horse. From top-of-the-line equipment to thoughtful editing, travel, and behind-the-scenes preparation, every detail is handled with the goal of creating something meaningful — images that feel as special as the moments themselves.
What are your prices and how do I book a session?
You can view my current session options and pricing on the Services page. Once you’ve chosen the session that fits your needs, booking is simple — just reach out through my contact form or by email to reserve your date. A session fee is required at the time of booking to secure your spot.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, I offer gift certificates for all of my portrait sessions – they’re the perfect gift for the horse lover in your life, or anyone who wants to preserve precious memories with their equine companion.
Do you have a referral program?
Yes! When a new client books through an existing client’s referral, you’ll both receive 10% off one portrait session! (Mini sessions, discounted offers, and existing bookings are excluded. Limit one discount per session. Referral discounts must be redeemed within six months of the new client’s booking and will expire automatically after that time).
How it works:
Simply mention your friend’s name when booking, and I’ll apply the discount to both sessions once the new booking is confirmed.
Do you offer equine event and show coverage?
Yes, I photograph select equestrian events and shows throughout the year. Availability depends on my current schedule, so please contact me for event inquiries.
Do you travel outside the Lower Mainland?
I’m based in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia and travel for select sessions and events. Travel fees apply outside my standard service area. If you’re interested in booking elsewhere in BC or beyond, please contact me for a custom quote. Travel fees may be reduced for group bookings of three or more sessions in the same location.
How far in advance should I book?
I accept a limited number of sessions each month to ensure every client receives the highest level of attention and service. During show season, I recommend booking at least four weeks in advance to secure your preferred date. While availability may be limited, I’ll always do my best to accommodate last-minute requests whenever possible.
Do you provide a horse for the session?
No, I don’t provide horses for photo sessions. Most clients use their own horse, a leased horse, or one owned by their riding instructor or trainer. All horses photographed must be used with the owner’s knowledge and permission.
Do you photograph riders under 19?
Yes, I photograph riders of all ages. A parent or legal guardian must be present during the session with a minor (anyone under 19) and must sign the photography contract before the session date.
When is payment due?
Your session fee is due in full on the day that you make the booking.
The session fee acts as a retainer to hold your session date and time. The fee is non-refundable, but transferable if the weather is uncooperative.
All artwork can be purchased separately once your gallery has been delivered – usually within two weeks of your session.
When is the best time of day for my session?
I’m experienced in working with a wide range of lighting conditions, and my portfolio reflects the quality I can achieve in any setting. That said, I typically recommend scheduling your session around sunrise or sunset—within approximately 45 minutes on either side—for the most flattering, golden light.
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
Client Cancellations: Must be made with at least 48 hours’ notice, defined as written notice (via email) received and acknowledged by the Photographer no later than 48 hours before the scheduled start time of the session. Deposits are non-refundable.
Rescheduling: The Photographer allows one (1) reschedule due to illness or other personal reason without a rescheduling fee. Any additional rescheduling requests will incur a $75 administrative fee per occurrence.
Late Arrivals: Sessions begin at the scheduled time. Late arrivals will result in a shortened session with no fee reduction. If the Client arrives more than 15 minutes late without prior notice, the Photographer reserves the right to cancel the session and retain the session fee in full.
No-Show: failing to show up for the scheduled session will result in the forfeiture of the session fee.
Photographer Cancellations: In the event of emergency, Photographer will refund all monies paid, or reschedule the session at no additional cost.
Group Mini Sessions:
In the case of Group Mini Sessions, cancellations are not permitted under any circumstances. These sessions are offered at a special rate based on group participation and are scheduled as a collective block. By booking, the Client agrees to attend at the assigned time and understands that failure to attend, for any reason, will result in the forfeiture of the session fee. No refunds or reschedules will be provided for missed Group Mini Sessions.
Weather & Safety Rescheduling: In the event of heavy rain, unsafe winds, thunder/lightning, or extreme temperatures, the Photographer will determine whether to proceed or reschedule for safety and to maintain artistic quality. Cloudy weather is not considered unsuitable.
Should rescheduling be required, the Photographer and Client will agree upon a new date subject to availability. The Photographer is not responsible for weather-related delays or cancellations beyond their control.
Can I include family members, dogs, or friends in my session?
Additional fees apply for extra subjects such as family members, dogs, or other animals. You’re absolutely welcome to include them — just let me know ahead of time so we can plan the session accordingly.
How should I prepare myself and my horse for our photo session?
All of my horse and rider sessions (mini sessions excluded due to time constraints) include the option for one outfit change. I usually recommend bringing one casual look and one more polished or stylish outfit—think jeans and a cute top to start, followed by a flowy dress or your show attire if you’d like to highlight your discipline and equestrian style. You’ll receive a detailed prep guide before your session with everything you need to know, and you can also check out my blog post From Boots to Bling: What to Wear for Horse + Rider Portraits for wardrobe inspiration!
For all sessions, I strongly recommend having a helper available for the duration of your shoot. Having an extra set of hands can make a big difference in helping everything run smoothly and ensuring we capture all the images we need.
I’m not photogenic and feel awkward in front of the camera — can you help?
Absolutely! You don’t need to know how to pose — that’s what I’m here for. Sessions are a mix of guided poses and candid moments, so you’ll have a variety of images that feel natural and genuine. I’ll guide you every step of the way and never rush you or your horse — we’ll go at your pace to keep the experience relaxed, easy, and enjoyable.
What if my horse is anxious or unsettled during the session?
Every horse is unique, and I always work at their pace. We’ll take time for walking and grazing breaks as needed to help them relax and keep the experience low-stress and enjoyable.
How should I prepare my barn for a (BBG) black background session?
A barn aisle is required for successful black background sessions.
Please ensure the area is clean and free of distractions—sweep the aisle and remove any clutter, tools, or objects that could be in the way. Block out any light from behind the horse by closing barn doors, turning off overhead lights, and shutting windows. This helps create a seamless, professional backdrop and keeps the focus entirely on your horse.
When will I see the photos after my session?
I will usually have them ready about 2 weeks after your session. During peak times, such as show season or holidays, it may take closer to three weeks.
You will be emailed a link to a private gallery of your best images. From there, you can go through your photos and decide which are your favorites.
Can I have the RAW files?
I don’t provide RAW (unedited) files. Think of them as the digital “negatives” of your images — the foundation I use to create the final, polished photos you see in your gallery. They’re not meant to be viewed or shared as-is, since they don’t yet reflect the color, tone, and artistic style that define my work.
Every image you receive has been thoughtfully edited to bring out the best in you and your horse, and to reflect the care and artistry that go into my photography.
Is photo credit required when I share my photos?
Crediting your photographer is more than a courtesy—it’s a professional and respectful way to acknowledge the time, skill, and creativity that goes into every image. Even if you’ve commissioned the session, the photographer retains copyright and the moral right to be credited. Proper attribution protects intellectual property, promotes the artist’s work, encourages ethical image use, and supports a strong creative community. It can also benefit you by increasing your reach through connection to the photographer’s audience.
How to Credit:
Please include a linked credit in the caption, not on the photo itself, when sharing online.
Example:
📸 Birgit Berghofer – Equine Images
(@bb.equine.photo on Instagram // Birgit Berghofer – Equine Images on Facebook)
Do you offer prints or other artwork?
I work with a professional lab to offer beautiful, high-quality prints, handcrafted albums, and custom artwork designed to elevate your images. If you’d like help choosing the right pieces for your home or tack room, I’m happy to help you select the perfect pieces to bring your photos to life and create lasting keepsakes.
Can you Photoshop my images?
Light retouching (touch-up of small imperfections, stray hairs, and minor distractions) is included with your portrait session.
What’s in your camera bag?
I use high-end, professional gear to ensure the best quality images for your session. A list of my equipment can be found here.
What are your terms and conditions, and how can I use my photos?
You’re welcome to share your images on your personal social media and with friends or family, as long as proper credit is given to the photographer (Birgit Berghofer – Equine Images).
Please note that commercial use — any use that promotes a business, product, service, or brand — is not included with any session.
This includes (but isn’t limited to):
• Advertising, marketing materials, or website content
• Posts on business or sponsor pages promoting a rider, trainer, stable, or brand
• Paid sponsorships, endorsements, or product features
• Editorial features or publications tied to business promotion
Even if no money directly changes hands, if the image is used to promote a business or professional entity, it’s considered commercial use.
All commercial, promotional, or editorial use requires separate licensing and written permission from Birgit Berghofer – Equine Images.
A full set of terms and conditions is available here.