Edmonton Horse Photographer: The Unbreakable Bond

In the depths of our hearts, there exists a sacred bond between a woman and her beloved horse. It’s a connection that transcends time, language, and logic. Together, they create a symphony of trust, understanding, and unwavering love. I know it. My friend and fellow collaborator, Colleen knows it. As an Edmonton Horse Photographer, I’m a visual storyteller and historian, creating a precious legacy telling the story of a horse and its human.

Unfortunately, life can sometimes put us through unexpected trials, shattering our hearts in an instant.

This is my friend Colleen, of Verstara Jewelry . If you asked me to her in two words, my answer would be Love and Compassion.

You see, Colleen’s business was founded by love. The backbone of her success is that love, and compassion for those she serves.

Colleen’s artistry is in handcrafting pieces for horse owners. They’re a way to celebrate your horse, and to honour them if they’ve passed.

I have pieces that Colleen has created for me over the years. She’s made me pieces when my horses were here with me. I simply felt that I needed to carry a piece of them with me. I also have pieces that she’s crafted to honour the horses that have crossed the rainbow bridge.

Edmonton Horse Photographer and Renowned Horsehair Jewelry Creator

Together, we’ve been working on a collaboration, The Legacy Sessions and The Celebration Sessions. The fusion of an equine jewelry artist and and Edmonton Horse Photographer makes us a powerhouse combo. However, we aren’t just in collaboration with each other. Colleen is my friend and fellow horse nut. She delivered her horse, Chicka to me, several years ago, and Chicka became mine. We have a lot of history together. In fact, I recently wrote about how much Colleen and her work means to me; how important it is to be photographed with horses.

Last November, I visited Colleen to create some branding images for her. She wanted to feature Bully, her heart horse in them. It was so much fun to see how smart he was. I loved watching him realize after the first few minutes that he was supposed to be posing for me, and connecting with Colleen. Bully started to simply perform, and it was magical, if I do say so myself.

I think I shot 1000 photos in the span of 2 hours. The entire session was full of laughter, memories, and love for Bully.

Last weekend, Colleen messaged me to tell me that she lost Bully. He passed very unexpectedly.

This is where moments truly become memories. As an Edmonton Horse Photographer, I want to get the perfect shots, but what I’m really after are the perfect moments.

Her words to me:

“I’m so thankful to have those pictures Carla, it means the world to me.”

Preserving the Legacy with an Edmonton Horse Photographer

This session that we created to help Colleen brand her business has become so much more than a fun session. These photos are now so much more than a marketing tool. They are a memory, a legacy, and more precious than gold.

They became a testament to the enduring love Colleen she held and will always hold for her Bully. In these images, we witness the unyielding strength of the human-animal bond, a reminder that love endures.

Colleen my friend, I’m sorry for your loss. I’m grateful that I got to spend time with you and Bully, to watch your unique relationship and see the love you had for each other.

It’s this friends, the moments that become memories. This is why I do what I do.

Through the lens of my camera, I had the honor of capturing the beauty that existed between them. Little did we know then that these photographs would soon become priceless treasures, holding the memories of a horse’s spirit forever palpable. As I clicked the shutter, each snap became a glimpse into the profound connection between Bully and Colleen.

The Intangible Magic in A Horse Photo Session

What makes the connection between women and horses so extraordinary? Perhaps it’s the silent empathy, the unspoken language that flows between them. It’s the way the horse’s gentle eyes mirror the woman’s soul, offering solace and strength in moments of vulnerability. There exists an untamed spirit within both, an unbreakable wildness and an undeniable authenticity.

May this heartfelt glimpse into the profound bond between a woman and her beloved horse serve as a reminder of the power that lies within the connections we forge. Cherish the life-changing relationships that grace our paths, for they leave an indelible mark on our souls. Embrace the healing power of preserving memories, whether through photography, art, or the written word. Let us honor the unbreakable bond between humans and animals, for it is through these connections that we truly learn what it means to love and be loved.

Share your thoughts with us in the comments below. Have you experienced the magic of a horse’s companionship, or perhaps another special connection in your life? Let’s celebrate the strength and resilience found within these relationships, as we learn and grow together.

Looking for an Equine Photographer in Alberta?

Finding the right person to tell your story with your horse means you need to find someone who knows and understands horses, just like you do. Looking for an equine session with your four legged soulmate? Maybe you want a competition session where you’re running the barrels, mounted shooting, or jumping. Perhaps you’re a western or horse themed business looking for personal branding session that tells your story. Reach out to learn more about how an Alberta top equine photographer can help you create the session of your dreams.

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