Welcome to this guide - a collection of everything I’ve learned, tested, failed at, improved on and finally refined through years of photographing barrel races while also running barrels myself. Inside, we’re breaking down the things that actually matter:
essential camera settings you need for fast action and sharp images
correct timing and angles for each barrel
lighting and positioning
creative shots that elevate your gallery and add variety
exhibitions, candids and storytelling moments
Learn how to bring intention to every image you take. This guide is full of examples, explanations and more!
I’m not claiming to be the end-all authority on barrel racing photography. My opinions don’t “matter” in the sense that they’re the only way to do things. I’ve just been photographing this sport for a long time, and I’ve also been in the arena as a competitor for just as long. I know what the run feels like, what riders hope to see in their galleries and how important it is to capture a horse at their absolute best. I believe my work across multiple equine disciplines has helped me to refine this even more.
This guide isn’t about perfection - it’s about sharing a process that has worked well for me. So take what helps you, build on it, adapt it and make it your own.
Welcome to this guide - a collection of everything I’ve learned, tested, failed at, improved on and finally refined through years of photographing barrel races while also running barrels myself. Inside, we’re breaking down the things that actually matter:
essential camera settings you need for fast action and sharp images
correct timing and angles for each barrel
lighting and positioning
creative shots that elevate your gallery and add variety
exhibitions, candids and storytelling moments
Learn how to bring intention to every image you take. This guide is full of examples, explanations and more!
I’m not claiming to be the end-all authority on barrel racing photography. My opinions don’t “matter” in the sense that they’re the only way to do things. I’ve just been photographing this sport for a long time, and I’ve also been in the arena as a competitor for just as long. I know what the run feels like, what riders hope to see in their galleries and how important it is to capture a horse at their absolute best. I believe my work across multiple equine disciplines has helped me to refine this even more.
This guide isn’t about perfection - it’s about sharing a process that has worked well for me. So take what helps you, build on it, adapt it and make it your own.
