Equestrian, Horse and Rider, Equine Portraits Matina Cordell Equestrian, Horse and Rider, Equine Portraits Matina Cordell

Spring Flower Sessions at Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center

Spring is in full bloom at Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center, and there’s no better time to capture the magic of horse and rider among the wildflowers. In this dreamy golden hour session, Bryce and her horse Murphy, along with Veronica and her horse Skooter, brought such a peaceful beauty to the trails, surrounded by soft purple and white blossoms. Keep reading to see how the light, the flowers, and the bond between each pair came together in this unforgettable spring session.

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Equestrian, Horse and Rider, Equine Portraits Matina Cordell Equestrian, Horse and Rider, Equine Portraits Matina Cordell

Laura & Drake

There’s something effortlessly enchanting about the bond between horse and rider — a quiet, powerful connection that speaks volumes without a single word. During golden hour at the beautiful Artesian Valley Farm, we had the honor of capturing that bond between Laura and her stunning Friesian, Drake. As part of a mentoring session with Ashleigh Magnus Photography, we explored four unique locations across the property — each one offering a different backdrop, mood, and story. From tranquil paddocks to wide-open fields, every moment with Laura and Drake felt like stepping into a fairytale.

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A Birthday Celebration for Ashleigh & Banjo

There’s something incredibly special about photographing a bond that’s stood the test of time. For Ashleigh & Banjo’s birthday session, we returned to the same wild mustard-filled field in San Juan Capistrano where I first photographed them back in 2011. With golden hour casting a soft glow and the flowers towering all around us, it was the perfect setting to celebrate this iconic duo—and to witness Banjo, still full of spirit at 31 years old, rearing with joy like no time had passed at all.

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Equestrian, Horse and Rider, Equine Portraits Matina Cordell Equestrian, Horse and Rider, Equine Portraits Matina Cordell

Lara & Wiz

There's something incredibly special about capturing the bond between a horse and rider—especially when that connection is as playful and full of life as Lara and Wiz's. Set against the stunning backdrop of Rancho Sierra Vista Equestrian Center in San Juan Capistrano, this session at golden hour was a dream come true. From Wiz’s cheeky antics to Lara’s easy laughter, every moment of this shoot radiated joy, and I’m so excited to share it with you. Keep reading to see the magic unfold through the lens!

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Equestrian, Horse and Rider, Equine Portraits Matina Cordell Equestrian, Horse and Rider, Equine Portraits Matina Cordell

Savannah & Gladstone

Some horses and riders share a bond so special that it radiates in every moment, and Savannah & Gladstone are the perfect example. During my mentoring session with Ashleigh Magnus Photography, I had the privilege of capturing their playful, heartwarming connection at the stunning Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California. From joyful interactions in the arena to striking black background portraits, this session was nothing short of magical. Keep reading to see the unforgettable moments we captured!

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Equestrian, Horse and Rider Matina Cordell Equestrian, Horse and Rider Matina Cordell

Camryn & Feeling

Meet Camryn and Feeling—an inseparable duo whose bond shines just as brightly as the golden light at Blue Ridge Farm. From graceful moments in the dressage arena to Feeling’s adorable mirror check, this session was pure magic. Capturing their connection in such a picturesque setting was an absolute joy, and I can't wait to share more from this unforgettable day! ✨🐴💕

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Equestrian, Horse and Rider Matina Cordell Equestrian, Horse and Rider Matina Cordell

Ashleigh, Andy, & Moe

Some love stories are written in the stars—others are shared in the saddle. This session was extra special because I had the joy of photographing my dear friend Ashleigh, her boyfriend, Andy, and her beloved horse, Moe. Growing up with Ashleigh made life at the barn unforgettable, and capturing this chapter of her journey felt like coming full circle. With golden hour casting the perfect glow over Rancho Sierra Vista Equestrian Center, every moment was pure magic. ✨

Ready to see the magic for yourself? Click the photo for all the dreamy moments!

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Reflecting on 2024: Highlights and Milestones

A Year to Remember: 2024 in Highlights

As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible moments, growth, and milestones that shaped this year. From capturing unforgettable love stories to creative collaborations and personal achievements, it’s been a journey filled with passion, connection, and gratitude. Join me as I look back on the highlights of 2024—the lessons learned, the magic created, and the memories that will last a lifetime. ✨

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