Horse and Rider in harsh sun

[caymiss]

I will be shooting a Hunter/Jumper event in a couple of weeks. Here in Florida, the sun will likely be bright and harsh for most of the day. Any suggestions for combating the shadows under riders helmets and glare from the well groomed horses coats.

I breezed over an article recently about using filters even when shooting humans, but cannot remember if it was a UV or Circular polarizer. Now I cannot remember where I saw that article. DUH.

I may be able to use fill flash but am trying to have a backup plan if that is not possible. I hope to use a Canon 17-55 f2.8 IS USM or Tamron 28-75 f2.8, but may have to use
Tamron 18-200 f3.5-6.3 for the reach. Depends on where I post myself at the arena edge.

All suggestions welcome,
Becky

[Gatorboy]

With it getting later in the year, the sun will be lower in the sky which will help. Scout the jumps beforehand and setup at certain jumps in the morning and then as the sun moves, move to other locations to get the best angle in the afternoon. You may even find a location that is good all day long.

[caymiss]

Thanks, I am sure I will have to relocate several times over the day. Competition runs sunrise to sunset. Early and late day should make for some nice light, but the midday sun is still a killer all year. I am hoping for a little cloud cover, too.

[Photodawg1]

Although I prefer not using them, I have a B&W Circular Polarizer that I just love! I recently shot Rodeo with it and it really helped alot.

[gsgary]

Shoot into the sun thats what i do, and would never use flash with horses
http://gsgary.smugmug.com/photos/213171768-M.jpg

[caymiss]

gsgary, wonderful shot!

Yeah, one person at the barn had suggested the flash when we were reviewing the previous photographer's images (hard shadows, underexposed, hot spots on horses). She said the horses were used to flash. I do not feel comfortable about using fill flash.

I have taken some images for myself and practice that were over all very good, and an improvement over what the stable now offers. I am really nervous about presenting them with consistant, hi quality images. Being a horse lover I am also excited about an opportunity to be around a barn again!!

Thank you,
Becky

[gsgary]

gsgary, wonderful shot!

Yeah, one person at the barn had suggested the flash when we were reviewing the previous photographer's images (hard shadows, underexposed, hot spots on horses). She said the horses were used to flash. I do not feel comfortable about using fill flash.

I have taken some images for myself and practice that were over all very good, and an improvement over what the stable now offers. I am really nervous about presenting them with consistant, hi quality images. Being a horse lover I am also excited about an opportunity to be around a barn again!!

Thank you,
Becky


I shoot at Chatsworth, Burghley, Bramaham the top riders in the world ride these events and if i took my flash out i would be shot and hung up in the media tent
here's some from Bramham http://gsgary.smugmug.com/gallery/2987979/1/161845105
http://gsgary.smugmug.com/gallery/2980891/1/161364420
They might give you some ideas, i nearly always shoot wide open but never above F4

[Victoria Trout]

I also shoot top riders here in the US, mainly Eventing. Using a flash is pretty much out of the question. The only time you see it is indoors, then it is acceptable for hunters and saddlebreds. I would not worry about shadows on the riders faces. Riders hate how they look in a shot anyways. If the sun is out try to angle yourself so you always get that beautiful gleam on the horse's coat. If you want to guarantee a high quality product make sure you are highly consistent with your timing.

http://www.vicspics.exposuremanager.com/g/training_stadium

[caymiss]

Gary and Victoria,

Your images are inspiring!

I have permission to visit the barn in the morning for turnouts. It will be fun (and no pressure) to catch shots of the horses playing. I also have my fingers crossed that there will be some early morning training going on to practice my timing.

I am so excited about this oportunity.