Ah, equine photography—the stunning horses, the people, the stunning locations, the... cutthroat media drama? Yes, folks, beneath the elegance of equine sports lies a realm where some media occasionally swap their lenses for knives. As a playground for both artistry and ego, the equine event world isn’t all picturesque sunlit arenas and people riding with grace. Instead, it sometimes plays out like a particularly dramatic soap opera, featuring characters whose actions could rival any reality TV villain. Let’s dive into this unexpected world where clicking a camera can mean war, and understanding horse behavior becomes secondary to navigating the human drama.
**Please note, names have been changed to Drama King & Drama Queen as I believe these things would be best said in person not shamed online.
When Your First Rodeo Becomes a Soap Opera
Picture this: I transition from the high-octane world of automotive photography, where for many years I was the only female automotive photographer in a very male dominated sport over to the much quieter world of equine events. Sounds like a walk in the park, right? Think again. My debut into this supposedly tranquil world was less "Welcome to the Community" and more "Welcome to the Thunderdome."
I posted my first equine event photos online, expecting maybe a few likes and some supportive comments. Instead, I got a full-blown drama starter kit. A seasoned photographer, whom I now refer to as Drama King, decided to inform me that I was as out of place as a donkey doing Newcomers and don't understand the dangers of photographing equine events. Because obviously, dodging 800hp flaming race cars running methanol doesn’t prepare you for the dangers of photographing horses.
Silly me.
Fast forward a few weeks, and Drama King's stares could have melted my camera lens. My assistant and I had front-row seats to a tantrum worthy of its own reality TV episode. Apparently, my mere presence at the event was enough to trigger an award-winning performance of eye rolls and gripes to the organisers who soon realised they had more important things to deal with, like pretending they had more important things to deal with to avoid having to indulge in such a childish conversation. Bravo, really.
So, that was my initiation into the cutthroat world of equine event photography. Not quite what I signed up for, but hey, every rodeo has its clowns.
Social Media Shenanigans: The Drama Unfolds
Social media, that wonderful world where drama has a longer shelf-life than a high school rumor. It didn't take long before my foray into equine photography sparked a digital soap opera. Side-eye emojis, passive-aggressive posts, and cryptic comments were flying around like a swarm of wasps.
At one point, I had sponsored an event—nothing huge, just doing my part to support the local community. Naturally, this turned into a spectacle. Drama King decided that the sandpit wasn't big enough for the both of us, because clearly 3 dressage arena's, 2 show jumping arenas and a cross country course gets pretty squashy when your ego is so big. Cue the tantrums. And we're not talking about a simple huff and puff. Oh no, this was a full-blown, stage-worthy performance. I half-expected they break into song, detailing the tragic tale of how my mere existence had wronged them.
You'd think there would be a statute of limitations on how long someone can hold a grudge over something like event photography. Spoiler: there isn’t. I started to feel like the pariah of equine events. Eventually, it became less about me and more about everyone vying for their piece of the sandpit, a struggle that hasn't ended with a couple of photographers.
Navigating these constant minefields requires finesse—or, failing that, a bloody good sense of humor. Because if you can't laugh at the absurdity, you'll end up with a starring role in this tragic drama they're writing.
The Art of Ignoring and Blocking—Literally
Mastering the art of ignoring negativity is like developing a sixth sense—you just learn to tune it out.
Imagine snapping away, focusing on your perfect shot, and there's Drama Queen in full flair, positioning themselves smack in your view. Lovely. My go-to move? The "I don't see you" stare. It's an art, much like ignoring your 40kg dog climbing on your lap as if they're a puppy again while you pretend nothing's amiss.
Years of these antics have given me an unexpected portfolio of... backs. Yes, the ever-magnificent back of someone who thinks blocking my view is a sport. I've captured these artistic backs in various lighting and angles—an underappreciated niche, if you ask me.
One day, I'll host an exhibit titled "The Backs That Blocked My Shots."
Blocking isn't the only trick in the book. There's the classic “accidental” hat throw in my view, the sudden need to yell out and reposition a horse in the arena you are shooting, and the ever-popular 'mono-pod leg' swinging in front of you. And there you are, in the middle of this circus, trying to maintain a shred of professionalism while silently plotting a heist to steal Drama Queen's energy for your morning coffee.
The thing is, while you’re perfecting your attempt at Zen-like calm, the real challenge is not letting it turn you into a recluse, or snap. It’s like being in a real-life game of dodge-ball, where instead of balls, you’re avoiding passive-aggressive remarks and well-placed obstacles.
The reality is, navigating this minefield is less about changing the bullies and more about building an emotional fortress so strong that their antics just bounce off. It does take a toll on your mental health over time as it has mine. However, now I have decided to step back from covering events, it's time to hold people accountable for their actions. It's crucial to set boundaries and remind them that this behavior isn't acceptable.
The Live Stream Fiasco: When Mic Placement Matters
Ah, the live stream fiasco—a delightful cocktail of mic placement, a foul mouth and poor timing. Picture it: I'm at an equine event, everything’s being live-streamed, and I’m doing my thing, capturing everyone during the morning classes. All of a sudden, my phone blows up with messages- ok, ok I got three messages. Turns out, Drama Queen decided that nearby the live mic is the ideal spot to unleash their grievances about me. Classy, right?
Let’s set the scene: Adults, sponsors and kids glued to their screens at home, enjoying the live-stream. Then, bam! They’re treated to an unscripted tirade that could make a truck driver blush. A wave of “I guess that was directed at you” messages hit my inbox. Fantastic. Clearly, someone missed the memo on etiquette.
Being the diplomatic soul that I am, I thought I'd do the right thing and give them a heads-up in case they didn't realise. I casually mention, “Hey, the live stream mic is just over there,” with all the calm of a monk meditating in a hurricane. What do I get in return? An explosion of expletives so loud and colorful directed at me across a dressage arena. For a good two to three minutes, I stood there, getting verbally roasted in front of judges, competitors, and spectators.
If this were a show, it would have definitely been rated R for Ridiculously Unprofessional.
The Other Side of the Lens: Live View
Oh, the joys of witnessing a live-action drama unfold, all while you’re just trying to do your job. Ever watched someone make a kid cry because their shutter speed isn't the only thing they're focused on and suddenly they think their opinion need be herd? It's like a twisted reality show: "When Photographers Attack."
I've seen our resident Drama Queen turn into a veritable tornado of tantrums.
Picture this: they’re blocking shots like they’re playing defense in a basketball game, but with a camera. Judges looking like they’ve aged ten years overnight, participants second-guessing their life choices, and fellow photographers wondering if they missed the memo about this event doubling as a wrestling match. All this while you're trying to remember to pee, have a drink or wondering if you packed enough memory cards.
Then there are the moments where they decide to become a self-appointed enforcer of some imaginary rule-book. Yelling at officials, making sure their voice carries enough drama to make Shakespeare proud. My personal favorite? Watching them compromise judging and basically rewrite the event’s scrip by calling out entrants names, getting in the way of the workouts, showing the judge their images, telling the judge why they didn't make a good choice or deciding to stand up when a novice horse is about to go by causing them to exit stage left... Yeah, I have witnessed it all.
So, yeah, capturing these equine events is sometimes less about shutter speed and more about dodging the real-life episodes of "Drama Queens Gone Wild."
Standing Up Without Losing Your Cool: A Delicate Balance
Ah, the tightrope walk of maintaining your sanity while standing up to the Drama Queens—it's an art form. Imagine you’re juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle on a high wire, above a pool of drama sharks. Now, add the challenge of keeping a straight face and a professional demeanor for YEARS when in your world, you would probably drag the person yelling at you behind the bar for a... errr hum "chat."
Welcome to my world!
My secret weapon? The art of "nothinging" them. When Drama Queens launch their theatrics, I channel my inner Zen master: "Your negativity, it's not worth my time."
Another fellow photographer came to me last year and said “Oh Drama Queen said you hate them” and my reply to that was simply “I don’t hate them, I never felt strong enough about them in the first place to feel that strong about them now, I just nothing them”. But I don't want them to starve, I just don't want them sitting at my table to eat.
Let’s talk about the power of the perfectly-timed “I’m too busy for your nonsense” glance. While they’re busy acting like a toddler who missed nap time, I focus on my work, capturing those shots. If you can master the look that says, “I see you, but I don’t see you,” you’re golden. Blocking and ignoring aren’t your only tools. Sometimes, a polite yet firm “Hello, have the day you deserve” can work wonders. Delivered with a smile, it disarms even the most aggressive Drama Queens. It’s the adult version of flipping the bird, but with a professional twist.
The key is to keep your cool, because nothing irritates a Drama Queen more than seeing you unfazed. Think of it as your personal game of psychological chess—except in this version, the checkmate is you walking away with stellar shots and your dignity intact - Something after years of copping abuse, saying nothing is now almost impossible.
The Power of Community: Supporting Each Other in the Field
Picture a world where photographers are more like a supportive troupe of performers than rival gladiators, which mostly is how we already work together!
Imagine complimenting someone on their stunning shot and meaning it, sharing tips that help everyone elevate their game rather than hoarding them like a dragon guarding treasure. A little positivity can go a long way in transforming the field into a community rather than a battlefield.
In this utopia, seasoned pros mentor newbies, showing them the ropes with a smile instead of a scowl. When a fresh face shows up, instead of side-eyes and cold shoulders, they get a warm welcome and maybe a few pointers. And let’s face it, sharing knowledge not only helps the newcomer but also reignites your own passion. Who doesn’t love a win-win?
We’ve all experienced those moments of doubt, where you wonder if your work is good enough or if you’ll ever get that perfect shot. In a supportive community, those doubts are met with encouragement rather than criticism. Constructive feedback becomes a tool for growth, not a weapon.
When we lift each other up, we create a space where art and camaraderie flourish. So, let’s put aside the drama and make room for genuine connections, mutual respect, and maybe even a bit of fun.
Educating New Photographers: Passing on the Wisdom
Alright, seasoned pros, it’s time to swap out the sneers for some genuine mentorship. New photographers entering the equine scene don’t need a crash course in navigating drama; they need a guiding hand to show them the ropes. Instead of hoarding your secret sauce for the perfect shot, why not share a recipe or two?
Imagine a world where you see a newbie struggling with their settings, and instead of a smug grin, you offer a helpful tip. Picture the look on their face when they finally nail that shot, thanks to your guidance. It’s not just about capturing stunning photos; it’s about fostering a community where knowledge flows as freely as compliments.
Remember when you were starting out? A little advice went a long way, right? Pass it on. Share your experiences, both the triumphs and the mistakes. Help them understand the intricacies of lighting, timing, and yes, even how to dodge the occasional Drama King. When you lift others, you elevate the whole field, creating a supportive and collaborative environment where everyone can thrive.
Dealing With Stress: Self-Care Tips for Photographers
Alright, fellow shutterbugs, let’s talk self-care. The drama might be unavoidable, but how you handle it is entirely up to you. First things first: remember to take regular breaks. Staring through a viewfinder for hours can turn anyone into a grumpy old hermit. Stretch those legs, hydrate, and maybe sneak in a quick snack. Trust me, hangry photographers are not fun to be around.
Healthy boundaries are your best friend. If Drama Queen is staging their next Oscar-worthy performance right next to you, it’s okay to step away. Prioritize your mental health over capturing every moment of the chaos. After all, a burnt-out photographer isn’t going to get that perfect shot anyway.
And for the love of all things holy, don’t forget to breathe. When the passive-aggressive comments and not-so-subtle obstructions start piling up, take a deep breath and channel your inner Zen master. You’ve got this.
Finally, find your support system. Connect with fellow photographers who get it—those who can share a laugh over the latest drama or offer a sympathetic ear. After all, a little camaraderie goes a long way in all aspects of life. .
Legal Rights and Responsibilities: Know Where You Stand
Navigating the wild world of equine photography isn’t just about capturing that perfect shot; it’s also about knowing where you legally stand. Imagine: you’re at a private equine event, camera in hand, ready to snap away. Not so fast!
Venues have their own rules, and it’s crucial to get the lay of the land before you start shooting. From restrictions on photographing minors to rules set by private property owners, you need to know what’s kosher and what’s not.
Don’t assume you can just waltz in and click away. Some venues require permission, working with children checks, public liability insurance especially when kids are involved. And let’s be real—nobody wants to get booted from an event because they didn’t read the fine print. Familiarize yourself with local and venue-specific regulations. Trust me, a little homework can save you a lot of headaches.
Knowing your legal boundaries not only protects you but also keeps the atmosphere professional. So, strap on that camera, but make sure you’ve got your legal ducks in a row first!
Steps to Create a Safer and More Respectful Environment
Alright, so how do we turn this drama series into a harmonious haven? First off, let's roll out some crystal-clear policies against bullying, harassment and inappropriate behavior, tailored for everyone—photographers, officials and participants. Stop messaging other people about the issue and DEAL with it directly. How on earth these Drama Queens are able to continually be cruel, rude, inappropriate and just plain nasty yet are still INVITED to events has got me beat. Hence this blog post... I have had enough.
But policies alone won’t cut it; we need to stop allowing people constantly get away with such toxic behavior. Holding them accountable shouldn't be avoided, these people need to know it's not ok! Because honestly, knowing your tantrum could land you on the ‘Do Not Invite’ list might just keep them in check.
When you witness or are on the receiving end of this toxic behavior, you should be able to easily report it without fear of becoming the next target. Make it easy, make it safe, and—most importantly—make it effective. When people feel heard, the atmosphere instantly improves.
Finally, enforce consequences for bad behavior. Because when all else fails, a little accountability can work wonders. As an event holder YOU HAVE RIGHTS!
Let’s make equine events a place where the biggest drama is deciding which shot to post first. Photographers should be not seen and not heard as much as possible...
Anyhow, back to editing for mE
x Christie Lyn
FURTHER READING - A few articles for everyone who thinks the photographers have more rights than anyone else in attendance:
"Where a sporting event is held on a club's private property, privately owned land, a school or council owned facilities, the owner of private property or venue is able to restrict, ban or require permission of photography anywhere in their venue" - CLICK HERE
"Photographing and filming children Policy: Sport and recreation organisations are expected to create and maintain safe environments that are fit for purpose, provide positive experiences and ensure the safety of children" - CLICK HERE
Where to get help - CLICK HERE
