Creative, commercial photographers.

Camargue horses – the mane winner

June 21, 2010

Determined to capture majestic Camargue horses on camera, a British photographer Austin Thomas travelled to the south of France earlier this year. The photographer’s persistence and patience were well rewarded when the resulting photograph saw him win an award  from the International Federation of Photographic Art, and the Daily Telegraph’s ‘Big Picture’ contest.

The Camargue horse, the mount of choice for French cowboys, is an ancient breed renowned for their power of endurance and intelligence. In their natural habitat, the Rhône delta in southern France, with nostrils flared and manes and tails billowing behind them, they make a striking subject for creative photographers.

Professional commercial photographers, whether in Leeds or London, think about an animal’s character in the same way as they do when taking photographs of people. The photographer ensures they know what they want the images to convey about the animal and then put their knowledge of composition, lighting and angles to good use, capturing the animal’s personality on camera, and achieving the picture their client desires.

Creative photographers waiting for the perfect moment to capture a show-stopping photograph require perseverance and patience. They also need the ability to predict how an animal will be likely to act, and this necessitates an understanding of animal behavior, in respect of both domestic pets and wildlife. Mr Thomas spent many days observing the famous Camargue horses before finally capturing his award-winning photograph, a stunning shot of three running through the shallow waters of the Rhône Delta.