Riders are divided into two to three classes, depending on the experience of the rider and the horse. Most trails offer a variety of terrains, including challenges to both horse and rider such as water crossings, rocky inclines and fallen logs across the trail. While trail rides are not races or endurance rides, they do test the horses' conditioning and are timed to make sure no one gets too far ahead or behind on the course. Riders are penalized if they fall outside a certain window. The men and women who ride are judged for riding skills and habits, while their mounts are judged on conditioning, training and manners.
Most riders welcome having a photographer at the event.
Photographs not only record the ride, but also provide a picture of a favorite horse and a way for the riders to assess their own riding form. What to shoot For most riders, the horse is the most important subject. While they don't want to look stupid or inept, riders care more about how the horse looks than how they look. I still like shooting the occasional rider coming up the trail towards me with the fall colors behind him, but trust me, those pictures don't sell. Shoot from the side, so clients can view as much of the horse as possible.