The Photographer, Trainer, Showman
I got started with horses late in life, as it wasn't until I was in my early thirties by the time I got introduced to the Equine World, thanks to my better half and love of my life. I still remember to this day, on our first date, she told me, all I had to do, was to like horses. I had never been on a horse up to that point.
First I had to learn to ride, then I learned to show, followed by learning how to train my own horses. There were many, many hours of blood sweat and tears from my coach and trainer Bill Rinzema, as I was not an easy student, none of this came naturally to me like it does for some. I can remember my very first lesson with him, and I was on my first horse, ( a three yr old paint mare "Cheyenne") asking me to lope a circle and when I did, thinking I'll show him, only to be told I was on the wrong lead. "What's a Lead?" I said.
I can still hear him groaning in the background as I think he began to realize how much work this was really going to take. The countless hours logged in teaching me confirmation, mechanics and developing a good eye, I will always be forever grateful, thanks Bill.
Most of my experiences were involved in and around the western disciplines, as I showed Reining horses for years, but have been known to chase some cows, run some barrels and do a pattern or two in the Ranch classes. I have been blessed with some really great horses along the way and have had the opportunity to work with and befriend many different people. I no longer show or train, but I am still constantly on a learning curve. I think that is the beauty of this passion, is we are truly never done learning, there is always something new each and everyday. I find that gives me an edge when taking photos of our four legged friends, whether it be in competition or just a candid shoot. To capture not only the rider but to capture the horses expression and energy.
