Behind the shot
One of Australia’s top equestrian photographers, MICHELLE TERLATO travels the world capturing equestrian athletes in action. Each month she shares one of her favorite shots.
Rider: Chris Burton
Horse: Chedington Hazy Toulana
Event: Longines Global Champions 2022
Location: London, UK
Camera Type/Settings: Canon EOS 1DX Mark II 70-200mm Lens ISO 200 f2.8 1/1250 sec
Challenges:
The Global Champions Tours are always very well organised and allow fabulous access for photographers, so the main challenge was choosing a fence that the horses jumped well while at the same time showcasing the Royal Hospital Chelsea. The weather was wonderful, the lighting was good, and as Chris jumped in the morning the sun was still behind us. To add to the atmosphere, there was a good crowd even though the main event was a few hours away. With the arena nice and close, the 70-200mm lens was perfect for the job.
Why this shot is special:
As always, Chris Burton is a picture of perfection. Soft hands, giving reins, great leg and body position, and his focus on the next fence making him look faultless. In this shot, his horse, Chedington Hazy Toulana, is slightly uphill with all legs tucked up beautifully. I think the fence, with its stone gargoyles and beautiful set dressings of colourful potted plants, is also a real feature in this image
However, the real scene-stealer is the Royal Hospital Chelsea – what a backdrop! I love this venue, which is a retirement and nursing home for the Chelsea Pensioners, all veterans of the British Army. It was such a privilege to meet some of these Red Coats, so called because of the iconic red tunics they wore when they served their country, who are so proud to host the event and love to chat and mingle with the crowd. It’s a wonderful memory and an image I look back on with great affection
Editor’s Note: Members of the Australian Olympic Eventing team, Chris and his horse Shadow Man won Individual Eventing silver in Paris last month.
Michelle is available for event, commercial, and private shoots. Visit Michelle Terlato Photography to view her impressive portfolio.
