Hooves and Hocks Photography

The Synchronized Trot

2008-09-11T02:42:00.000-07:00

Almost perfect! I give them a 10!
Perhaps this could be a new Olympic Equestrian Sport!!!

Just Out For a Sunday Stroll...

2008-08-30T04:17:00.000-07:00

... in horse country.

Maremoto de Profeta

2008-08-28T02:52:00.000-07:00

Do you remember this beauty from a few months ago? This is the beautiful stallion Maremoto de Profeta, owned by Steve White Motors, Inc. Riding him is his trainer, German Higuera of Santa Ana Paso Finos Farm. They make a very handsome pair don't you think?

Just look at that gorgeous red hair!!!

I Love Their Eyes

2008-08-27T11:15:00.001-07:00

It's funny what different horse owners love about their horses. Some love the manes, some love the neck, some love the hock (I think I said that right!), some love the butt (surely THAT'S not the correct term!).... I love the eyes. I love the way they get those little wrinkles above the eye. I love their beautiful long lashes. I love those long curly hairs that grow below the eye. A person could just get lost in those large soulful eyes. They're one of my favorite things to photograph.

This beauty lives at Santa Ana Paso Finos Farm. She has lovely eyes. :)

A Sneak Peek

2008-08-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

A little peak at one of the photos I've been working on the last couple of days. I should be back in the "saddle" on Monday. I will have lots and lots of fabulous new photos to share with you in coming days, so be sure and keep checking back!

Out Of The Loop

2008-08-20T14:05:00.001-07:00

I must apologize for my lack of blogging, editing, delivering pictures, etc. I've been out of the loop for the last couple of weeks. Between losing a beloved friend, fighting a nasty UTI and kidney infection, trying to get kids ready to go back to school and college, and my husband taking a week off, I've just needed to take a couple of weeks off myself.

I promise that next week, after everyone is safely back where they belong and I have the house to myself again (aaaahhhhhh - can't wait!), I'll be back in the swing of it again! So expect to see blogging and those that are waiting for pictures, I'll be hard at work on them.

And I promise I won't fall "out of the loop" again until Christmas!!!

To Lisa and the Iriarte Family

2008-08-16T03:22:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful job you did celebrating the life of Juan Carlos. I know he would have been deeply touched. Love to you all ~ Sandy

Peace for Juan Carlos

2008-08-12T04:30:00.000-07:00

JUAN CARLOS IRIARTE

I'm sad to say that my friend, Juan Carlos Iriarte, passed away last night, surrounded by his guardian angel, Lisa, and his loving family. He fought hard and he suffered hard and now he's in a far better place. We will miss him dearly. He was quite a man. I'm so honored to have had him in my life, if only for a short while.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lisa and the whole Iriarte family.

~ Hugs to you all, Sandy and family

Just A Little Patience ...

2008-08-11T18:46:00.000-07:00

Meet Otis and Ollie. Are they not adorable? These little mini mules belong to Brian and Jill and live on a little slice of Heaven up in the NC mountains. My girls and I spent a wonderful Saturday afternoon at their place a couple of weeks ago. We had such a wonderful, relaxing day. And we just loved all the animals.

Jill told us that Ollie is not very social. He does not like to be touched or caught.

Kelly decided she would try and entice him over for a little pet. You could tell he really wanted to come closer, but he stayed just one step out of reach.

So close ...

But she didn't give up and her patience was rewarded. Ollie came close enough for a little nose nuzzle. And it was oh so cute!

Thinking of You Juan Carlos

2008-08-01T03:47:00.000-07:00

~ Sandy and Family

FUNDRAISER BENEFIT FOR JUAN CARLOS IRIARTE

2008-07-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

Those of you who follow this blog know that Juan Carlos Iriarte has been battling Leukemia for 2 1/2 years. He and his fiance, Lisa, have been having a particularly hard time over the last few months. But Juan Carlos is strong and continues to fight hard.

The Paso Fino Horse Association - Trainer's Association is sponsoring a Colt Raffle Fundraiser Benefit for Juan Carlos. Please visit Juan and Lisa's website at www.ranchoeldestino.com to find out how you can purchase tickets and help Juan Carlos and Lisa.

Below are photos of the beautiful grey yearling colt. The raffle will be held on September 19, 2008 at the PFHA National Championship Show in Perry, GA.

www.ranchoeldestino.com

The Three Amigos

2008-07-21T16:05:00.000-07:00

As promised, here's some more of the three colts that I had the great pleasure to photograph last weekend. These guys were so much fun.

I'm sure ya'll know by now that my knowledge of horses is somewhat limited - okay, alot limited, so I was pleasantly surprised to watch these three frolick and play all over the pasture.

After they all came up and hesitantly gave me and my camera the once over, Brandie shooed them off to go run. And run they did! They were like puppies!

They chased each other and bit each other!!! I couldn't get over how many times they nipped each other! I saw one walk right up behind another and grab his back leg! Ouch! Just like puppies! Trust me, I got a whole bunch of fabulous "nipping" photos!
But this one is by far my favorite!!! It makes me laugh out loud every time I see it!

Positively LOVE this picture ... cept that pesky bush in the foreground ... anyone got a chainsaw????

Look at the pretty boy Romeo posing so nicely for his human, Brandie. (Actually he was having a "nature call", but don't tell anyone!)

This is how my subject posed for me!!!

I hope to see these three again one day soon!

A Note...

2008-07-20T15:20:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a moment to thank all my fabulous horse clients. Ya'll have just been so wonderful to me and I've thoroughly enjoyed myself each and every time I am around you and your beautiful horses. Everyone has just taken me in and really taken the time to answer my endless questions and make me feel right at home. I regard each and every one of you as a dear friend.

I have been hard at work shooting and processing horse photos steadily since last fall when I took my first shots at Juan and Lisa's place. Since then it's just been a whirlwind of horse photos in and out of my poor, weary little computer. And I have loved it!

I want everyone to know how very much I appreciate your patience and understanding. I know that it takes me quite awhile to get your photos processed and back to you. I wish I could turn them over more quickly, but I truly believe that each and every photo is like a little masterpiece and deserves the time it takes to make it all it can be. Thank you so much for understanding that. I truly appreciate it!

Jaime and Leonor, I'm sure you've given up on me by now, but they'll be on their way to you tomorrow! They should arrive in your mailbox in just a couple days!!!

Brian and Jill, I am going to work like a dog this week to make sure your pictures are in the gallery on time! I don't want folks beating down your door wanting to know where they are!!!

German and Brandie ... well, you'll be lucky to get yours by Christmas!!!! HO! HO! HO!

I wanted to leave you with a sneak peek of some beautiful and humorous photos I took on Saturday. I spent an entire "fun day" shooting with Brandie and German. This is just one of a boisterous threesome that I fell in love with. The one on the left is Romeo. He's German and Brandie's baby. Isn't he gorgeous!

... more to come in a day or two ...

More from Santa Ana Paso Finos

2008-07-16T08:43:00.000-07:00

As I continue to sort through and edit the hundreds of horse photos I've taken over the past several weeks, I keep coming across ones that are just so pretty that I want to share! Like these ....

These are from my day spent with German and Brandie at their farm, Santa Ana Paso Finos. I just love the scenery at their place. It's so beautiful!

Shot of the Day

2008-07-12T16:57:00.000-07:00

Today I traveled up to beautiful Blowing Rock, NC, where I shot some photos of a Paso Fino Trail Ride.

This is one of my favorite shots of the day. This is Jill and Eco enjoying a little splash in gorgeous Trout Lake. Eco loved it! Jill says he would lay down in it if she would let him! There were other horses with them, but they wanted no part of the water.

Thanks Brian and Jill for inviting me up! We had a wonderful time and I can't wait to share the rest of the photos with you!

A Flower for You

2008-07-11T04:24:00.000-07:00

I just love this picture!

This one, too!

Santa Ana Paso Finos

2008-07-07T12:46:00.000-07:00

Look at these beautiful stallions!!!

This gorgeous gray stallion is Fantasma de Santa Ana, owned by Santa Ana Paso Finos.
He had posing down pat! Just look at him!

Now this beautiful Chestnut, named Maremoto de Profeta, was a little more difficult. He was much more interested in eating the lush green grass than posing for me! I did manage to catch a couple of him looking very handsome! Will you look at that mane!!! I know that's a good thing in Paso Finos, but I sure would have liked to get a pair of scissors and given him a little trim so he could see!!! ssshhh....don't tell anyone I said that!

Fantasma is a real heart-breaker. He just has a sweetness and gentleness to him that I just adored.

I couldn't have asked for a more scenic background than this lovely pond...and the rolling hills behind it. So pretty. Perhaps German and Brandie will build a lovely house back there someday. (hint, hint)

Note to German - so sorry but I just had to nix you out of these pics!!! hah!

A Few For Brandie...

2008-07-06T04:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spent the day at a lovely little farm called Santa Ana Paso Finos. It has beautiful rolling hills and a lovely pond. We took hundreds of photos (which I will post more of soon). Here is a series I took of Brandie and their gorgeous stallion. He was just too, too sweet!

LOVE this pic!!! Have you been kissed by a horse lately???

Something A Little Different

2008-06-29T13:25:00.000-07:00

I snapped a couple photos of an unusual "horse" today. I thought she was the cutest darn thing! Now, I'm not sure what those of you with purebred horses think .... but I loved her!

I must say she was the biggest, tallest donkey I've ever seen! She was as tall as a horse ... hey, you don't suppose she's a "h"onkey do you???? Is that even possible???
Anyway, she was tickled pink to find out that she was going to be on my blog today.

A mythical creature ... perhaps?

2008-06-20T18:27:00.000-07:00

As I finish up the photos from the Startown Stock Sale, I came upon this one. There's something about this horse that just touches me. Imagine her in a lush green field running free with her gorgeous white mane and tail flowing about her ... maybe with a horn jutting out the center of her forehead ... okay maybe THAT'S a little much (haha). But I really am drawn to this beauty. I always thought I preferred the rich dark colored horses, but I have to say I really like the white horses as well. Shoot, I love them all!!!

Juan Carlos

2008-06-19T13:59:00.001-07:00

Ya'll did such a wonderful job of keeping Juan Carlos Iriarte in your thoughts and prayers last month ... well, I just know it helped to bring him a miracle.

He is once again struggling to be healthy. I know it would mean the world to him and his family if you would once again keep him in your thoughts and prayers. And be sure and send him a message via their webpage. I know he loves to hear from everyone! The link to their website is on the right side of this blog.

Here's a recent picture of him at the Startown Stock Sale about 3 weeks ago. It was so good to see him up and about.

Hey, You Talkin' To Me ???

2008-06-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

And I thought humans came up with some funny faces!!!

I was trying to get a headshot of this beauty, but just like a little kid, he had to get all his sillys out first!!!

I'm Sure Ya'll Can Relate!

2008-06-14T05:08:00.000-07:00

My Artistic Side....

2008-06-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

I am a very artistic person by nature. I suppose all photographers are. Once upon a time I used to draw and paint. And, now, on occassion, I find myself playing with a photograph to see what I can make out of it. I love how this one turned out. I think it would make a beautiful framed canvas to display over a fireplace or in a den. I'll wait to see if this rider recognizes herself!

Worth a Thousand Words

2008-06-07T03:59:00.001-07:00

You've heard the phrase "a picture is worth a thousand words", right? It is so true! How many times do you look at a photograph of a loved one or a special place and have strong emotions and memories? That's what photographs do - they capture a tiny little moment in time, that might otherwise be forgotten, and bring that moment and those feelings back to us over and over. They have the power to keep people connected when miles apart. They bring out feelings that sometimes "being there" or a moving video just can't invoke. A mere photograph is a powerful thing.

This group of photographs is from my recent visits to Blake-Cliff Stables for their trail ride and Startown Stables' stock sale. I consider myself to be a "lifestyle" portrait photographer. I prefer to catch people being themselves, doing what they do. I'm really not into stiff, formal posing. I like to just sit back and "catch" little moments of who people really are and capture it on film. These photos are all little snippets of what went on these days. When I'd just turn my head and catch a moment that made your heart go "aaawww, how sweet!". That's how I feel about each one of these photos.

I've been doing horse photography for several months now, and I have to say that I just LOVE it! The horses are so beautiful. I love the surroundings, the pastures and barns and white fencing... I love the sound of the horses calling to each other, the sound of their hooves, their sweetness, and their spirit. I love horse people. They have all made me feel so welcome. They are gracious and patient. I feel so blessed to have been given this opportunity.

Alot of the "humans" you see here are of the Iriarte clan. I just adore them. Every moment I spend with them is just a delight. Such a warm loving family. Every time I'm around them they teach me something new. Did I say how much I adore them??

Blake-Cliff Stables has the most fantastic views! It's like sitting on top of a mountain. It's a photographer's dream. I have taken so many beautiful photos there.

I'm so excited to be going to my first Paso Fino horse show (well, for that matter, any horse show) in a couple of weeks! All new photo opportunities and challenges. New things to learn and I'm sure, many, many more snippets like these. I can't wait to share them with you!

Juan and Lisa

2008-06-06T05:43:00.000-07:00

... looking healthy & happy...

Startown Stallions (and a filly)

2008-06-04T07:01:00.000-07:00

Look at these gorgeous Startown Stable stallions!!! They are so beautiful and strong.

I just love this next photo. There's just something so sweet about the way he's gazing off so intently...

Now here's where I may be a little off. You know after you've photographed 100+ horses (which I've done over the past couple of weeks) you start to get them mixed up - just a wee bit. If I'm not mistaken this is a young stallion. I do know that he needed a couple of minutes to run around and burn off a little energy before he was ready to settle down and pose.... as most of the stallions seem to do.

Love this next photo ... just a man and a horse ...

(This photo has an antique desaturated finish)

Now, I'm pretty sure that this pretty little red-head is a filly! Not sure how she snuck into the boys' photo-shoot. But isn't she a beauty!?

I will be starting on the Blake-Cliff Stables' trail ride photos next. And then on to the Startown Stables' Stock Sale photos after that ....

I'm going to the horse show in Asheville on June 28th. I'm so excited!!! I've never been to a horse show! It should be great fun and I'm sure I'll come home with several hundred MORE photos!!! So be sure and check back frequently!

Just A Little Sidetrack ....

2008-05-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

Ok. I know I said my next post would be the stallions of Startown Stables, but I got a little sidetracked by these beauties....

These horses are from Blake-Cliff Stables. I spent a wonderful day there on Saturday photographing their annual trail ride. I took almost 600 pictures, so you will see them trickling on here slowly as I have time to go through them all.

You know one of the things I love most about the Paso Fino horses? I just love how natural they look. I love their long shaggy manes and tails. I love how sturdy and compact they are. When I look at them out in the pastures, I can just imagine them running free across the plains hundreds of years ago. They just seem to have that feeling about them.

If I remember correctly, these two are a little on the elderly side, and yet they are still so beautiful. I can only hope to age so gracefully!

Startown Stables

2008-05-26T03:45:00.001-07:00

The story of Startown Stables began over 50 years ago in a small town in Columbia, South America, known as Tarqui. It was there that Luis Carlos Iriarte, a respected Paso Fino breeder and trainer, instilled into his only son a love for the Paso Fino horse. Alvaro grew up and became the fourth generation in his family to breed, train, judge and show Paso Fino horses. * (*Info gathered from various Iriarte family material).

Alvaro vowed that one day he would come to America and become a citizen. He accomplished his dream at the age of 35. He moved to America and became a US citizen in 1979.

Startown Stables is a fabulous place and is home to about 100 Paso Fino horses. The stable and it's owner are well known and highly respected in the Paso Fino community.

I pass this stable several times a week and seldom a morning goes by that you don't see Alvaro out riding those horses, with the "funny little gate", out in his fields. They're a beautiful sight.

I was so excited when I found out I was going to Startown Stables to photograph their horses! I've been driving by this place for years and have never once stepped foot on the property. It was exciting to finally be there and meet Alvaro. As I said in my previous post, he was charming. Thoroughly enjoyed my time spent with him and his beautiful horses.

One of my tasks was to photograph the mommies and their babies. Of course, I was THRILLED! I just love the babies! There were several moms and babies in the big pasture, so my daughter (who came with me) and I hiked the fence and went in the pasture with them. I'm getting so brave now! hah! They were having breakfast but kept a watchful eye on us at the same time. Every time we'd get close they'd all take off. I ended up in the middle of the pasture with my long telephoto lens on a tripod in hopes of catching just a few shots of the beauties. They were tricky. The babies are like little magnets, always stuck to their mommies' sides. And it seems that they're frequently on the back side! I did manage to get quite a few decent shots however....

This Palomino and her baby were just gorgeous! I understand that Palominos are quite unusual in the Paso Fino breed. Her baby was only a couple weeks old. We so wanted to get closer, but they were quite shy.

Now these two were the brave ones of the bunch. They actually came towards us a couple of times.

Not these two - they were at the far, far end where they just completely ignored us.

So pretty...

He looks like a little stuffed animal!

Here's the brave pair again....

Loved this baby! So cute!

These two decided that they would just stare us down in hopes that we'd leave.

I could have spent all day with the mommies and babies. But it was time to move on to the stallions! Oh Boy!!! They're always exciting!!! See them in my next post!

Alvaro Iriarte

2008-05-22T12:50:00.001-07:00

Alvaro Iriarte

Fourth generation Paso Fino horse breeder and trainer.

Owner of Startown Stables.

~~~

Today I had the great pleasure of meeting Alvaro Iriarte. What a lovely gentleman. He welcomed me and made me feel right at home immediately. He was a true pleasure to work with. I will have many pictures to post soon. And I will be returning to Startown Stables several times over the next few weeks. So be sure and check back!

~~~

OH!!! And guess who I saw today???? JUAN CARLOS IRIARTE!!! He stopped by Startown Stables with Lisa for just a few minutes. I must say he looks fabulous! You'd never know the trauma he just went through! It was just so, so wonderful to see him. Made my day.

New Photos Soon!!!!

2008-05-20T16:28:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone!!! It's been a long time since I've posted. I'm excited to say that I've got some new Paso Fino sessions coming up soon, so be sure and check back for new pics!!! I've missed the horses and am looking forward to being around them again.

ALSO, please check out Blake-Cliff Stables new webpage! It's beautiful! www.blakecliffstables.com

GOOD NEWS!!!!

2008-05-09T16:17:00.000-07:00

Juan has made it through his surgery successfully! The doctors are feeling very optismistic about his recovery. Thank you everybody who kept Juan and his family in your thoughts and prayers. All those prayers have resulted in a miracle. Juan still has a rough road ahead though, so keep them coming!

~ Sandy

Update on Juan

2008-05-07T13:56:00.001-07:00

Please check in on Juan and Lisa's website (click on their link on this page) under their Message Board. There have been several new posts over the last couple of days regarding Juan and his treatments. He is still awaiting surgery, but is receiving anti-fungal medications while he waits.

My heart breaks for him and his family. Please, please keep Juan and his family in your thoughts and prayers. They need all the prayers that they can get during these difficult, difficult days.

PLEASE PRAY FOR JUAN

2008-05-06T11:45:00.000-07:00

The Iriarte Family has posted a prayer request on Juan and Lisa's website. Juan Carlos is undergoing surgery again today. They fear that the fungal infection may have spread. They ask that everyone pray for Juan.

Another Small Prayer ...

2008-05-03T17:24:00.000-07:00

For a beautiful little filly who ran her heart out against "the boys" today.
God Speed Eight Belles.

Prayers for Juan Carlos

2008-05-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, Juan Carlos (who I've spoken of often on this blog) is battling leukemia. He is literally in a fight for his life. I learned today, that Juan contracted a severe sinus infection which became life threatening. In order to save his life, Juan had to have an eye removed. It appears the operation was successful and that the infection was removed. Lisa says he is doing well and recovering nicely. I have to say that these two people are so amazing to me. I've only known them a few short months, but feel like I've know them for years. And never once have I ever heard them feel sorry for themselves or the situation they find themselves in. They are always so positive and so optimistic. Always finding the silver lining in the dark cloud that lurks nearby. I have a profound admiration for them.

Please keep them in your daily thoughts and prayers as they battle with this disease. I can't wait for the day when I can see Juan in the saddle again doing what he loves. That will be a picture perfect moment for sure.
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To Juan and Lisa, take care of yourselves and know that my family and I think of you every day and are sending all our thoughts and prayers your way. ~ Hugs, Sandy
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Feel free to leave a message here for Juan if you'd like or you can click on their link and leave a message there. Juan and Lisa read both sites and love hearing from people!!

The Horses of Blake-Cliff Stables

2008-04-26T18:40:00.000-07:00

First, I must apologize for taking soooo long to post! I'm suffering from a bad malady though! Maybe you've heard of it...it's called Spring Fever. The symptoms of Spring Fever are (but not limited to), going outside even though you have other more important things you should be doing. Gross neglect of other responsibilities such as laundry, dusting, vacuuming, cooking, etc.
And work. I've been neglecting that too. You see my office looks out over my beautiful back yard and well, it just calls to me. The only way I can get ANY work done is to close the blinds completely so I can't see out or, well, pray for rain. So, that's my excuse. Are you buying it???

I did want to share some more of the fabulous pictures I took at Blake-Cliff Stables! As I said before, they too, house and raise Paso Fino horses. However, whereas Rancho El Destino has stallions and mares, Blake-Cliff has geldings and mares. They are a little calmer and ... more my speed. haha! Every bit as beautiful though!! Here's Jaimie on one of their beauties.

Leonor's bribing this one with just a little treat. We were hoping for a big cheesy horse smile, but no such luck. He just wanted to nibble.

Look at these lovely eyelashes! I'm jealous!

I just love it when they pose so nicely. I wish my human subjects were this easy!

I just love their eyes.... so soulful. And their noses ... so soft. And their ears ... always moving and listening .....

So pretty.

I loved it when they opened the stall windows and they all popped their heads out. I think they were all hoping for a little treat!

My daughter was off of school that day and went with me. She was quite taken with this little one. It was tooooo sweet!

I had to laugh, because the stallions of Rancho El Destino sometimes require a few minutes to wear off a little of their "energy" before they're ready to stand still and pose nicely. Blake-Cliff Stables geldings come right out of the stall and just strike a pose! It was amazing! There was really only one or two who took any real coaxing from us. Made my work super easy!

I loved these silhouette shots. They speak to me.

Leonor said this guy is usually pretty shy, but not on this day. He was just popping that head out and posing for all sorts of pictures!

This one is a real looker! Love his color!

I can't wait till May 24th when I will be returning to Blake-Cliff stables to photograph their trail ride! I'm sure it will be a busy and eventful day with lots of photo ops! Can't wait!

Blake-Cliff Stables

2008-04-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce you to Blake-Cliff Stables, a little piece of Heaven on Earth. Blake-Cliff Stables are located in Maiden, NC, almost to Denver. They also raise and train Paso Fino horses. Who knew there were all these Paso Fino stables around here. I never even heard of one until a few months ago. I thought they were just pretty little horses with a funny gait!

I was recommended to them by Juan and Lisa. Jaime Sarmiento is the manager of Blake-Cliff as well as a trainer. His wife, Leonor, gives riding lessons. Now, Leonor is an Iriarte. She is, in fact, sister to Juan Iriarte and daughter to Alvaro Iriarte, of Startown Stables.

Lisa told me that their place was beautiful ... about 500 acres of rolling pastures and hills with trails. But, let me tell you what, when I came around the corner and saw ALL that white fencing, my mouth fell open and I had to pull over and get a picture BEFORE I even pulled into the drive! I don't think I've ever seen so much white fencing in my life!

Jaime took us on a golf cart (thank goodness!) around the property first thing, so I could get some shots from all different angles. When you're up on this hill you can literally see for miles and miles. I bet it's just lovely when all the trees have leafed out and everything is lush and green.

See that fence that just kind of leads off out of the picture ... that's the long drive up to the stable. Where Rancho El Destino is small and quaint, Blake-Cliff is large and grand. Both beautiful, beautiful places.

I just loved these silhouette shots. Took several of these. Couldn't help myself. :)

Do you see that big hill behind the stable (yes, that big white building on the left IS the stable!), well, they sponsor two trail rides a year in those hills. Actually, I'll be attending the trail ride next month, on May 24th, to take photos. I'm so excited! I know it's going to be just an awesome photo shoot!

Just so pretty, everywhere you look.

Jaime opened up all the stall windows so that the horses could poke their heads out! How funny is that! They loved it!

This shot is from one of the fields where they grow hay for the horses. I had to use my major telephoto lens cause we were so far away from the stables! And, let me tell you, it was downright chilly out there!

It didn't matter where I looked, there was a picture to be had. Everything was just so well groomed and taken care of. I must say, these horse stables are very nicely maintained places!

I've got many more pictures of Blake-Cliff Stables to post, so be sure and check back.

Some Of My Faves ... Part II

2008-04-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

This absolutely gorgeous horse is Napoleon De La Hacienda. This is one of my all time favorite photos. He looks like he could be a unicorn!

Juan on a cute little pinto, Chipiro Sin Par.

Love the way Silverado and Juan are looking at eachother.

These two look like they're having fun, don't they?!

This beauty is Afortunado de El Dons. I just love the braided manes!

The magnificent Reggaeton.

Lisa and La Campana del Juncal.

This is Lisa's beautiful horse, Duquesa de Quisqueya.

Please don't ask me to pronounce that. I wouldn't have a clue!!!!

Love the coloring of this photo. Reminds me of a painting.

Silverado Bravo at the beauty salon. He's getting his hair done today.

Some Of My Faves ... Part I

2008-04-16T09:20:00.000-07:00

~ Juan Carlos and Lisa ... two of my favorite people ~

Juan on the gorgeous Napoleon, wearing traditional chaps and hat. I can't get over how looooooong these chaps are!!!

I have a thing for photographing "things". I found the tack at Rancho El Destino very interesting. As I've said before, everything at this little stable is in picture perfect order.

I absolutely love the next shot. One of my all time faves.

Lisa and Reggaeton.

Meet Chepe and Chola

2008-04-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

These are the puppies of Rancho El Destino. Adopted from the local animal shelter, these two have it made in the shade. They get to run and frolick on the ranch and are spoiled rotten by Juan and Lisa. What more could two little cast offs ask for?

Chepe is such a joy to photograph. He's got such an expressive little face. And I just love his coloring.

He's just a bundle of energy and curiosity. On this particular day he was totally infatuated with my daughter's shoelaces! I'm no dummy. Mine were double-tied. :)

Chepe has certainly changed since this photo was taken! He's literally 3 times as big! He's like a little horse, actually!!! I will get some new pics of him next time I'm there so ya'll can see just how big he's gotten!

Chola was just out of the vet on the day these pics were taken. She was a little underweight and a little tired after her stay at the animal shelter. She spent most of her day just soaking up the sun. I'm happy to report that she's fat and sassy now! And growing like a weed!

Chepe pretty much uses Chola as a chew toy. But she fights back when necessary. You can see she's got some mighty ferocious little teeth in there!!!

Absolutely LOVE these two pictures!

...

Don't you just want to take her home?? Such a sweetie!

Running and playing is really hard work. Occassionally you just got to plop down and take a little rest.

Hard Work and Training

2008-04-14T16:15:00.000-07:00

Days start early at Rancho El Destino. One of the things that really struck me about this stable was the sense of organization and neatness. Everything runs like a well oiled machine. Juan and Lisa start their days early, and along with some very dependable employees, the horses are up, bathed, groomed and ready for a workout about the time that I'm usually eating my breakfast!

Lisa told me that she had never ridden a horse until a few years ago! Could have fooled me! She handles a horse like someone who's been around them her whole life. Very impressive! Course, I could tell you a really funny story about Lisa and a certain horse .... but I'll save that particular story for another time. You'll love it!!! :)

Something that I found very cool was the way Juan and Lisa braid their horses' manes and tails. Now, being a non-horse person, I thought it was just to make them pretty for their picture. Silly me! I soon found out that they braid their beautiful long hair so that it won't get all snarly when they're out training hard. Well, who would have thought??? I prefer to think that it just makes them pretty. (ssshhhhh....don't tell Juan!)

Juan tends to be a little camera shy, not really wanting to be in the photos himself. But, as you can see, I captured him with my lens many, many times. He looks very handsome, don't you think?

Juan had no qualms throwing Lisa out in front of the camera, however! He would say "Lisa, come ride!" She seemed quite happy about it though. She said she never passes up an opportunity to ride.

Juan and the frisky youngster, Retono. Just running off a little energy. Isn't he pretty???

I love all the different horses at Rancho El Destino. They're all so unique and each with their own personalities and little quirks.

I absolutely loved this big girl. She's proof that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes and you don't have to be some svelt little filly to be beautiful. Just look at her prancing proudly along. You go girl!

This Chestnut is a gorgeous boy! He is very photogenic. Beautiful coloring, very regal and sweet disposition. I took lots and lots of pics of him!

Do you recognize this fabulous guy?? Well it's the magnificent Reggaeton, of course!!! I don't think he can take a bad picture. He's sorta like the Brad Pitt of the horse world!

To Blake-Cliff Stables

2008-04-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

I HAVEN'T FORGOTTEN ABOUT YOU!!!! I promise I will be posting your photos soon! I'm going to try and get the rest of my Rancho El Destino posts up so I can move on to yours.
Thanks so much for being patient. I can't wait to show off your absolutely glorious place!

~ Sandy

Youngsters

2008-04-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

The above is one of those "one in a million" shots that you couldn't duplicate again if you tried! The way all four horses were standing there waiting for .... I don't know .... maybe me to tell them what to do ... maybe a carrot ... maybe they were trying to decide if they should trample me or not !! ??? hah! This will forever be one of my favorite pictures.

And this little (ummm... guy/girl?) is just a doll. I don't know if it's appropriate to call a foal a "doll" but look at it! It couldn't be any cuter if it tried!!!

This next shot was an interesting capture. Didn't realize what I had until after I downloaded it. Isn't it cool??? Love the way their heads are all lined up.

This next guy is a little bit older, but still a younster in horse-land. This gorgeous black colt is Temor. He so reminds me of Reggaeton!

I couldn't have asked him for a more perfect pose. So alert!

This buckskin colt is Retono. Juan says he's in his awkward, adolescent stage. I think he's just beautiful. I love his coloring! He was a little bit stubborn when it came to getting his photo taken, however. Sorta like my 3 teenage kids. He just made us work extra, extra hard for the perfect shot. Dang teenagers.

Here he is running free in a small arena. And let me just say that I was very brave this day!! I actually stood in the CENTER of this tiny arena while he ran circles around me. Lisa stood guard. It made my dizzy (literally) trying to catch a shot of him as he ran around and around! I finally just stood in one place and tried to catch him as he whizzed by. Here's a couple of those.

I could have used a wide-angle lens for this particular shot. Then I would have gotten something more than just his head and neck. But he is pretty, none-the-less.

This pretty little filly is Anastasia. Unfortunately, it was a very overcast day. Wish we would have had the sun to really show off her beautiful coat!

Okay. This next little baby has a face that only a mommy could love. However, Lisa assures me that he/she will grow up to be a beautiful horse some day. One can only hope. :)

I mean, reeeally, just look at this face! It reminds me of the story of the ugly duckling. It's just waiting for the "beautiful swan" to come out!!!

Oh, to be young again ... wish I had this much energy!

Black Beauty

2008-04-08T17:05:00.000-07:00

This black stallion is Reggaeton La Estrella. He is an upcoming 4 year old performance colt and the pride and joy of Rancho El Destino. You can see why! He's just gorgeous!!!

Now Reggaeton is one spirited boy, let me tell you what! On my second day of photographing, Juan tells Lisa to just let Reggaeton run loose around the arena so I can get some action shots. So after a little grooming, to make him nice and pretty, Lisa walks the, seemingly docile animal, to the arena. She asks if I'd like to stand in the center of the ring. I politely decline (thinking to myself "There's NO WAY I'm standing in the center of that ring while that horse runs laps around me!!!) :) Good thing to! As soon as the halter came off Reggaeton kicks up his heels and takes off, hooves thundering, as he runs with sheer abandon around the large arena. "WOW!", I'm thinking. "He's so beautiful and so happy!" It was all I could do to keep up with him (camera-wise). Twice around he goes, then he slows down just a bit when he comes to the gate, sorta nudges it open a little and leaps over the rest (out of the arena!) and takes off around the corner of the barn!!! Lisa, my oldest daughter (who came with me that day), and I were totally shocked! Lisa said something like "OH NO HE DIDN'T!!!", before running after him dialing for help as she ran. I said something like "HOLY COW!!!" And my daughter just stood there mouth gaping while she uttered this nervous little laugh ...... but, don't worry folks. This story has a happy ending.

Reggaeton, being a typical male, only made it as far as the pretty mares on the other side of the barn. It was there, while strutting his stuff, that he was captured and led back to his stall for bad behavior.

I'm sad to say, I totally missed the shot of him jumping the gate that day. I was much to busy picking my gaping jaw up off the ground!!! But, next time, you can bet I'll be ready! Bring it on Reggaeton!!

Here he is running with such joy - right before the Great Escape!!

Reggaeton truly is a beauty. He has such a regal air about him, and yet could sit for hours while you rub his silky soft nose. He's definitely a fave of mine.

Lisa pictured with Reggaeton, above, and Juan with him below.

Initiation Day at Rancho El Destino

2008-04-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

My initiation to horse photography began one rather chilly morning at Rancho El Destino, home of Juan and Lisa. What a beautiful little stable. I was in love. I could have spent my morning just going from stall to stall ooohing and aaahing over all the beautiful horses and rubbing their silky little noses ... but, no! I was there to practice and to learn! I spent a couple of hours traipsing around the ranch shooting this horse and that horse, which is quite different from shooting people I might add! People, except for little kids, basically stand still for you. But these horses go fast!

I learned that the type of horses raised and trained at Rancho El Destino are Paso Finos. They have a very fast natural gait, almost like they're marching, which almost made me giggle when I watched them. Juan Carlos is a 5th generation Paso Fino trainer. His family came from Colombia where they began the Paso Fino horse training tradition. His father, Alvaro Iriarte, owns Startown Stables in Newton, NC, another well known local Paso Fino Stable. Juan taught me to look for certain things to make the photos beautiful - ears pricked forward, tail "quiet", legs square under the horse .... Paso Finos are a smaller breed of horse, so in order to make them look larger we placed them on a hill and I would squat a little. We wanted those beauties to look larger than life! And they did!

Yessiree! A New Blog!

2008-04-03T17:45:00.000-07:00

My name is Sandy. Sandy Keys. I have a blossoming photography business, known as S Keys Photography, that I established in October of 2007. I am a portrait photographer specializing in natural light (basically the great outdoors). I'm not a fan of studio photography. I've enjoyed taking pictures of little tots, kids, teenagers, engaged couples and families.

So how in the world did I end up taking pictures of horses you ask??? Well, it's Juan's fault. Juan Carlos Iriarte that is. He and his lovely fiance, Lisa Dwyer, own Rancho El Destino, a beautiful little Paso Fino stable in Newton, NC. I met them by chance at our local country vet, while we both waited to have our dogs seen. We got to chit-chatting and one thing led to another. I found out they owned a horse stable and that Juan was a horse trainer. They found out I was a photographer. They asked if I took pictures of horses .... uh, noooooo, but I'd be willing to give it a try ..... and a few days later I was at their place learning the art of capturing a horse on film (digitally speaking, of course). I had a blast! Horses are such beautiful creatures, I could just photograph them all day!

Now that I've been to Rancho El Destino three times, and some 500 or so photos, and now another gorgeous stable, Blake-Cliff Stables in Maiden, NC, I decided I should start a separate blog to showcase my equine photographs. My regular "people" client's might not quite grasp why in the world these horses keep showing up on my portrait photography blog!!!

Juan and Lisa's horses are especially dear to me. They're a little frisky and high-spirited and tend to want to run a lot, but they just melt my heart. And, of course, the two puppies they adopted the week I met them, well, I just adore them. You'll see their pictures here, too!

I hope you enjoy looking at these beauties as much as I do. ~ Sandy