A Sunrise Start to the Season: Lara & Estrella’s Golden Morning Shoot

There’s something undeniably special about sunrise shoots, especially when it comes to equine photography. As a Cape Town equine photographer, these early mornings are some of my favourite moments behind the camera. The stillness, the soft light, and the sense of calm create the perfect environment to capture genuine connection. This sunrise session with Lara and her beautiful horse, Estrella, was the ideal way to start the season — and a true reflection of why Cape Town photography is so unique.

Equine Photography in Cape Town.

We began just as the sun started to rise over the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow across the fields. The Western Cape has a way of transforming even the simplest landscapes into something magical, and this morning was no exception. The light was gentle and flattering, wrapping softly around Lara and Estrella and setting the tone for a relaxed, unhurried shoot. Sunrise is often overlooked, but for equine sessions, it’s one of the most rewarding times of day to photograph.

From the very beginning, Lara and Estrella’s bond was unmistakable. There was no need for forced poses or constant direction. Instead, the session flowed naturally, allowing moments to unfold organically. This approach is at the heart of my work as a Cape Town equine photographer — creating space for horse and rider to simply exist together, without pressure, so their relationship can shine through authentically.

Estrella was an absolute joy to photograph. Calm, attentive, and quietly expressive, she seemed completely at ease in the early morning light. Horses often respond beautifully to sunrise shoots, as the cooler temperatures and peaceful surroundings help them feel settled and relaxed. This calm energy allows their true personality to come through, resulting in images that feel honest and timeless.

Lara brought such a confident yet gentle presence to the shoot. Her connection with Estrella was evident in every interaction — from the way she held her lead to the subtle gestures of reassurance and affection. These are the details I love capturing in equine photography. They tell a story far deeper than a perfectly posed image ever could. They speak of trust, patience, and a partnership built over time.

One of the things I love most about Cape Town photography, particularly outdoor equine sessions, is how naturally the environment becomes part of the story. The golden grass, open space, and soft morning sky added depth and warmth to the images without overpowering the subjects. Nature played a supporting role, enhancing the connection rather than distracting from it.

Some of my favourite images from this session weren’t the obvious ones. They were the in-between moments — a quiet pause, a gentle hand resting on Estrella’s neck, a shared stillness as the light slowly changed. These moments are fleeting, but they’re often the most meaningful. They capture the essence of the relationship exactly as it exists in that season of life.

Equine Photography in Cape Town.

Starting the equine photography season with a shoot like this felt incredibly fitting. It embodied everything I aim to create through my work: authentic storytelling, natural light, and images rooted in real connection. Lara and Estrella trusted the process, embraced the early start, and allowed the morning to unfold naturally — and that trust translated into powerful, emotive photographs.

As the season continues, I’m so excited to capture more sunrise sessions across the Western Cape. Each horse-and-rider partnership is unique, and as a Cape Town equine photographer, it’s an honour to document these stories through thoughtful, intentional Cape Town photography. If this sunrise shoot is anything to go by, the season ahead is going to be truly special.