A Heartfelt Reunion: Bianca, Kwela, and Storm at Brockenhurst Equestrian

There’s something truly special about returning to photograph familiar faces — both human and equine. When Bianca reached out for another photoshoot, I couldn’t have been more excited. I’d had the pleasure of photographing her and her beautiful horse, Kwela, before, and this time I got to meet the newest member of her equine family — Storm, a striking black SA Boerperd with a presence as bold as his name suggests.

Equine Photography in Cape Town.

The shoot took place at the gorgeous Brockenhurst Equestrian in Paarl, one of those locations that perfectly captures the spirit of the Cape Winelands and the elegance of equestrian life. The moment I arrived, the skies were a soft, even grey — that kind of overcast weather that often makes people nervous about how their photos will turn out. But personally, I love shooting under those moody clouds. The light becomes wonderfully soft and even, wrapping everything in a natural glow that’s so flattering for both people and horses. It sets such a calm and emotive tone — which couldn’t have been more fitting for this session.

As a Cape Town Equine Photographer, I’ve had the privilege of photographing many horses across the Western Cape, and each session feels uniquely meaningful. Horses have this incredible ability to reflect the emotions of the people around them, and Bianca’s connection with her horses is the kind that instantly fills the atmosphere with warmth and trust.

From the very start, the bond between Bianca and her two horses was undeniable. There’s a quiet understanding that exists between horse and rider — a connection built over years of care, patience, and shared experience. With Kwela, it was evident that their relationship had only deepened since our last session. She’s the kind of horse that wears her heart on her sleeve, responding to Bianca’s cues with gentle affection and loyalty. Watching them together again was like witnessing two old friends pick up right where they left off.

Equine Photography in Cape Town.

Then came Storm — the new addition to the family and an absolute stunner. With his deep black coat, strong build, and kind eyes, he brought a dramatic contrast to the soft, muted tones of the day. But beyond his beauty, what really stood out was his temperament. You could see that he’s still growing into his partnership with Bianca — still finding that rhythm that comes with time and mutual trust — yet there was already an unmistakable connection between them. Every subtle interaction told a story: the way he leaned into her touch, the flick of his ears toward her voice, the calmness that settled over him when she stood beside him. Capturing those tender, unspoken moments is exactly why I love equine photography.

Equine Photography in Cape Town.

The yard at Brockenhurst Equestrian offered the perfect setting for this story. Between the rustic stables, open paddocks, and soft green surroundings, every corner seemed to tell a story of peaceful companionship. The moody skies added an extra layer of emotion to the photographs, transforming them from simple portraits into pieces filled with depth and atmosphere. Overcast weather is often misunderstood — many people assume you need bright sunshine for great photos, but in truth, those soft, cloud-diffused days create some of the most timeless and flattering images. The even light allows every texture — from a horse’s glossy coat to the subtle details of a leather halter — to shine naturally without harsh shadows or squinting eyes.

Being a Cape Town-based photographer, I’m constantly reminded of how lucky I am to live in such a visually rich part of the world. From Paarl to Stellenbosch and beyond, the Western Cape offers an incredible range of backdrops for equine photography — from golden fields to mountain views and coastal dunes. Sessions like Bianca’s are exactly why I love offering photography services in Cape Town. Every client, every horse, and every setting brings something new to capture.

I always find something deeply grounding about photographing people with their horses. It’s not just about creating beautiful images — it’s about freezing a feeling in time. The companionship between Bianca, Kwela, and Storm was filled with authenticity, laughter, and quiet love. There were playful moments where Kwela nudged her affectionately, serene pauses where Storm simply stood beside her, and plenty of genuine smiles that came naturally — no posing required.

As I wrapped up the session, I couldn’t help but feel a deep appreciation for the journey photography takes me on. Reuniting with returning clients, meeting new horses, and witnessing the growth of these relationships over time is something I never take for granted.

To Bianca — thank you for trusting me again to capture the magic between you and your horses. Kwela and Storm are both truly magnificent in their own unique ways, and together, you make the most beautiful trio.

Sometimes, the best photos are taken when the skies are grey, the world feels still, and the connection between human and horse speaks louder than words. This session was a perfect reminder of that — and why I’ll always love being a Cape Town Equine Photographer.