A few weeks ago I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph two beautiful women and their beloved horses who live at the Milestone Stables in Campbellville, Ontario. This gorgeous countryside farm located at the base of the Niagara escarpment was the setting for a beautiful experience which went beyond the photo taking, as it often happens. To my delight, I shall soon return to the stable for yet another sweet story, so stay tuned!
It so happened that these two beauties (Romeo-left and Mighty Mouse-right) became stall neighbours and since, a deep friendship has developed. When turned out, these two are inseparable and they seem to constantly mirror each other. They love to graze and run together and when they do, they get into an incredibly synchronistic rhythm which makes them look like they are each other’s shadow. So wonderful to watch and capture on camera!
Mighty Mouse’s lovely owner, Susan, told me: “Mighty Mouse is much more calm when Romeo is there; he trusts Romeo and feels safe when Romeo is nearby. I think that in their relationship Mighty Mouse is like a goofy teenage boy and Romeo is more mature and sophisticated. Mighty Mouse is the instigator (‘Hey Romeo, lets gallop over here!’) but Romeo is the boss (‘Don’t talk to those mares, Mighty Mouse!)”.
Well, looks like Mighty Mouse does not always listen to his friend after all…
Mighty Mouse is a splendid 8 yrs old Quarter Horse-Paint cross who arrived at the Milestone Stables three years ago from a different local farm where he was born. Susan and Mighty have been together since his move.
I am fascinated by the horse-human relationships and each one of them is different, as it is made of a very particular kind of exchange between two beings, which can’t be replicated elsewhere. Each set of energies and personalities is unique and fun to observe.
I am an outsider in a way, but I do get emotionally wrapped into what unfolds in front of my eyes. I feel the connection in my own heart and it allows for an intimate view into one of the most powerful partnerships in existence.
Susan and Mighty Mouse have a very strong bond. Mighty’s curiosity, playfullness and intelligence make him seek out new experiences, so he is is always delighted whenever Susan invites him on an adventure. He loves to explore and sometimes he can be slightly hesitant when presented with new situations, but it is the trust in his human which will ultimately convince him that he is safe.
We took Mighty Mouse into a beautiful field as I wanted to photograph him in tall grass. To our delight, His Mightyness (I like to call him this way) started running around on his own, allowing me to capture what I love the most: grace and power in motion.
Susan also told me: “Mighty Mouse does not trust people easily – he wants to reach out to them, hoping they have treats, but his fear makes him worry about getting too close. Once he trusts you, he is very affectionate and loves attention. He is very tactile and likes being groomed, hugged and paid attention to.”
Thank you for sharing, dear Susan. I can’t wait to come back and see you and Mighty Mouse again. Your connection and knowing of each other are inspiring and I hope the images we captured will always remind you of it and bring a big smile on your face.
Romeo is a gorgeous Anglo-Arab gelding who was born at the Milestone Stables. He now lives right across from his best friend, Mighty Mouse.
Romeo’s lovely owner, Kelly, was not planning to have a horse until their paths crossed five years ago…and she fell in love. Well, totally understandable! I had the chance to hang out with Romeo in his stall before our shoot and I can tell you, this horse was made to love and be loved. He was so quick to warm up to me, as he just loves people. The Arabs knew what they were doing when they started breeding this kind of a horse!
Romeo and Kelly have a very special bond. Romeo whinnies for Kelly when he hears her car come up the driveway and park in front of the barn.
Even though fully at liberty in the field, Romeo chose to share a few moments with Kelly while his good friend Mighty Mouse was around. Sweet!
Romeo’s big love is speed! He loves to go very very fast – like the wind! He loves it when he and Kelly jump and he fully believes that faster is better!!!! Kelly works very hard to give him jumping puzzles to do so that he is not sure what is coming up next so he can’t go too fast.
With his head up and neck extended, Romeo looks majestic. This horse is super alert, sensitive and his different emotions show well on this face. Almost in a human way, which is so fascinating!
Dear Kelly, thank you for allowing me this glimpse into a very special relationship you have with this precious horse. Many more photos will come your way and hope to have more such opportunities in the future. Enjoy!
Thank you so much Manuela! You’ve captured our boys so beautifully :). I just can’t stop looking at these beautiful photos….such a special talent you have…and what a great afternoon we had. You are fabulous. Thank you!!