Senior Portraits with OTTB gelding

Paige & Journey’s senior photos in Ripon, WI

When I had the opportunity to take senior photos for Paige, I was pretty excited. Not just because it was going to be taking place at the picturesque Cedar Ridge Stables, not just because the day was beautiful and warm, and not just because senior photos are some of my favorite projects to take on—rather, I was so excited to get to meet her horse Journey, an Off Track Thoroughbred. It’s not every day that one gets to meet such a powerful and accomplished horse, and I was looking forward to getting to know more about Paige and Journey’s history together.

An Off-Track Thoroughbred (OTTB) is a horse that was bred and trained to be a racehorse but is no longer an active racehorse. Retired racehorses may no longer be racing for a variety of reasons—some have been injured, and some simply do not show the willingness to compete on the track. That being said, these horses often go on to have successful careers off the track. Dressage, hunter, and jumper are just some of the disciplines many OOTB go on to excel at. Journey, for example, is an accomplished hunter/jumper. 

Thoroughbreds are known for their athleticism, speed, and heart, and it was evident that these are all qualities possessed by Journey. Paige had so much to tell me about him, and it’s clear that this gorgeous boy is settling into some of the best years of his life with Paige by his side. And as far as Paige goes, this lovely, happy, and soft-spoken girl is also branching out into what is sure to be some of the best years of her life, as well. With high school now behind her, Paige has her sights set on exciting new things, and I can’t wait to see where her life takes her! 

With both Journey and Paige at such monumental moments in their lives, it was clearly special that we were able to take some quiet moments to celebrate their bond and capture their love on camera. And I hope that these ensuing pictures are going to be something that Paige can keep close to her no matter where she finds herself. Because Journey will always remind her of home, and these pictures will remind her that home is never far away.