How to Take Compliant Horse Photos
Required Photo Angles
You must include three clear, color photos of the horse:
- Left Side – Full body from head to tail, including all legs and hooves.
- Right Side – Same as left, but from the opposite side.
- Front View – Head-on photo clearly showing the face and distinguishing facial markings. The image must include a full view, including ears and hooves.
- Optional Image - Add a picture of any unique identification features, such as a brand image, lip tattoo, or scar.
Photo Quality Tips
- Lighting: Take photos in good, natural daylight. Avoid backlighting and heavy shadows.
- Clarity: Photos must be in focus — no blur or pixelation.
- Framing: Capture the entire body or head (depending on angle) with nothing cut off.
- Distance: Stand far enough away to include the whole body, but close enough to show markings clearly.
- Tack: The horse should be photographed without tack, which can obscure markings.
- Background: Use a plain, clutter-free background (e.g., open field or barn wall). Avoid other horses or people in the frame.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using black-and-white or filtered images
- Cropped or partial body views
- Dirty or wet horses that obscure markings
- Excessively bright or dark photos
Horse Preparation
- Groom before photographing: Clean horses show markings more clearly.
- Remove blankets, fly masks, and wraps.
- Make sure the mane/tail doesn’t block body markings.