Appaloosa Breed Show Photography

Vivienne & Ted (and Charlotte!)

Vivienne & Ted (and Charlotte!) | Appaloosa Breed Show Photography in Franklin, KY

If you’ve ever shown horses at breed shows, you know the bond with your show partner runs deep. It’s built in early mornings, endless arena laps, and those quiet moments after a class where it’s just the two of you. That’s what made this session with Vivienne and her lease horse, Ted, so special.

Ted is a handsome Appaloosa gelding who Vivienne shows in Hunter Under Saddle at ApHC shows. Their connection is one that only happens through time spent both in and out of the ring. We spent the afternoon in Franklin, Kentucky, capturing portraits that reflect both the elegance of the hunt seat world and the affection between this pair.

We also took a few special portraits with Charlotte, another Appaloosa who Vivienne will be transitioning to soon. Charlotte will be her next show partner in Western Pleasure, and it was so meaningful to document this chapter of overlap—one horse she’s currently riding, and another she’s preparing to bond with.

For riders who show in the Appaloosa circuit (or any breed show), having portraits like this is such a valuable way to preserve your journey. From your first lease horse to your next big show prospect, each horse holds a place in your heart—and deserves to be remembered that way. Whether you’re a youth, amateur, or seasoned pro, these moments between the ribbons are often the most important ones.