3 Key Tips for Action Shoot Days

You've already heard my tips on prepping for conformation photos, but what about action shoots? The kind where your horse needs to look good and work sharp. These types of shoots — whether for sales, promos, or just showcasing your program — bring a different kind of pressure.

The good news? A lot of the basics stay the same. But there are a few key differences to help make the most of your time (and money) when the cameras are rolling.

Here are my top 3 tips for getting the best out of your action shoot days:

1. Make Them Pretty

Yes, looks still matter — even when they’re moving.
Just like with conformation photos, you want your horse to be:

  • Fed up and filled out

  • Slicked off and brushed out

  • Shiny and clean
    Small things like a clean tail, polished hooves, or a spritz of shine spray can make a big difference on camera — even when they’re in motion.

2. Have Them Tuned Up

Action shoot days are often intense. There’s more pressure, more eyes, and a lot of reps.
Leading up to the shoot, focus on:

  • Giving your horse confidence-building runs

  • Scoring extra if it’s a roping horse

  • Polishing only the spots in their performance that can improve without adding stress
    Now is not the time to overhaul their style. You want them to feel prepared, not confused. Think “sharp and settled” — not “wired and worried.”

3. Set Up for Success

One of the most common mistakes on shoot day?
Trying to go above and beyond.
It’s natural to want to show off… but sometimes that backfires.

Maybe you bring faster steers. Maybe you try a new move you’ve only done once. Maybe you chase something that isn’t your horse’s strength.
It usually doesn’t go how you planned.

Instead, focus on what your horse is already great at.
Highlight the best. Forget the rest.
That’s what makes a video stand out — not perfection, but showing a horse confidently doing what they know how to do.

Bonus Tip: Keep the Pressure Low

Shoot days can be high stress, especially for trainers not used to being on camera.
The pressure to perform perfectly, quickly, and with limited takes can rattle even seasoned horsemen.

That’s why I prioritize clear communication with my clients — before, during, and after shoot day. If you're prepared, calm, and have a plan, the whole process gets smoother for both you and your horse.

Want to book an action shoot or have questions about prepping your horse?
I’m happy to talk through the process with you so you know exactly what to expect and how to get the most out of your time behind the lens.

Let’s show them what your horse can do — at their best.

Sami McGuire