Top of the class!

There is one particular event that I have been covering since 2003.  It is dear to my heart because I love the people and the atmosphere.  The competitors enjoy what they’re doing and it always shows.  Here is a favorite shot from this year’s Carriage Classic, featuring one of the top winners demonstrating their gratitude to the cheering crowd.  This photo also ran in the local paper highlighting this year’s event.

Ready-Set-Action!

A fellow equestrian photographer asked if I would team up with her to cover an eventing trial in late May.  I was thrilled to be asked and excited about trying something new.  I love adventure, so this sport was right up my alley for action shots!  There were 3 disciplines:  dressage, cross country, and stadium jumping.  Here are few highlights from the cross country course and stadium jumps.

Time flies!

Well, I cannot believe that it’s almost August!  Spring breezed by, and now it seems that Summer is following along!  Obviously, I haven’t posted anything new in awhile.  This is partially because it has been a very busy season for me.  Here are a few of my favorites from a Morgan show in May.  As much as I love to work with varying subjects and disciplines, I also enjoy looking for ways to capture them from different angles and perspectives to create interest and variation.

The Southwest puts on a nice show!

I had the pleasure of meeting a great group of friendly folks showing their beautiful Morgans in Oklahoma last Thursday-Sunday.  What most caught my eye was the cute group of talented junior riders, from toddler to teen.  It is such a joy to see the equine enthusiasm expanding into the next generation.  These riders were serious about their sport and had an endearing love for their horses.

Proofs are now on-line!

Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, don’t delay!

Have you considered a family portrait as a gift for Mother’s Day or Father’s Day?  This is a superb time of year to capture a moment in time with your loved ones while the weather is still comfortable, the blooms are bursting with color, and you can wear cheery Spring attire!  Plus, these make great gifts for Grandparents Day, too!

And they’re off… I mean, they’re up! (matinee races)

Sunny skies and swift drives… What a superb Spring day to capture the 60th year of harness races surrounded in Pinehurst style.  Proofs are now available.

MCH Hunter Trials proofs are ready.

This past weekend was the 77th MCH Hunter Trials.  We faced less than ideal weather this year – high in the low 40s and 90% chance of rain!  This event offers no protection from the elements since it’s held at the top of a hill, overlooking a large field of natural jumps that also wind through a wooded area.  Spectators pre-pay for parking spots along the outskirts of a big jump on the hill, which serves as the starting and finishing points of a class’ course.  It was not surprising that most folks just stayed in their cars, not the usual tailgating and cheers.

I must admit that I had to break away a few times just to feel my fingers again.  I’m so thankful that my car has seat warmers!

I have been extremely fortunate that most events seem to bring along great weather.  However, I have gambled way too long on the need for rain gear to cover my DSLR, solely for the “just in case.”  The time has come though, so I am officially shopping after battling several hours of constant drizzle, mixed with occasional heavier rainfall.

Cold and rain don’t mix well, but that didn’t prevent this year’s riders from another great tradition.  If you’re looking for your photos, they’re on-line, www.eagle-eye-photo.com.

2009, Rain or Shine!

Part of the fun involved with being an event photographer is the weather.    I stay tuned to the forecast a few days prior to an outdoor event, just so I can try to pack the most appropriate gear, attire, etc. given the predictions.  No matter what’s in the forecast though, flexibility is always a must!

This is my sixth year as an equestrian event photographer.  In that time, I’ve only seen two events cancel or delay part of their show, due to severe lightning.  If there are no safety concerns at stake, equestrian folks are seldom discouraged to ride, drive, or compete.  I admire the adventurous aspect of this group.  Though it can be tough some days, I’m out there with them in the sweltering heat or frigid cold… rain or shine!

a new year, a new way

Welcome to the blog for Eagle Eye Photo!

Since it’s a new year, I thought it was time that I try the new way of keeping in touch with my great group of clients, supporters, and camera comrades.  This is truly a learning process for me, so I appreciate you coming along for the ride!

My new web site was launched this past Fall with a blog tab on the home page.  Now, it will actually do something when you click on it!

My goal is not to overwhelm you as a subscriber, but to keep you informed through this tool.  I plan to update my event clients when proofs are available on-line, share some favorite shots, announce specials, and relay any news along the way.

Please stay tuned!  And may the new year bring new and exciting things your way!