Blog #1 - Leveling Up with Jesse Klein’s Equine Black Background Workshop
Blog #1 - Leveling Up with Jesse Klein’s Equine Black Background Workshop
by Kaylin Markart Photography
If there’s one thing I believe in when it comes to photography, it’s the importance of continuing to grow. Whether that means refining a technique, learning something entirely new, or simply spending more time behind the lens with fresh inspiration, I’m always looking for ways to elevate the services I offer.
At the end of June, I had the opportunity to attend Jesse Klein’s Equine Black Background Workshop—and let me tell you, it was nothing short of incredible. The black background style has always intrigued me, and getting hands-on experience in such a thoughtfully curated setting helped me really focus on the finer details that make this style so striking and timeless.
Most importantly, it’s another step toward expanding the refined, high-end options I offer my clients. Whether we’re capturing the bond between you and your horse, celebrating a milestone, or simply freezing a beautiful moment in time, my goal is always to ensure the final product feels luxurious, intentional, and uniquely you.
These images are more than just portraits—they’re statements. The simplicity of the black backdrop allows the horse’s expression, muscle tone, and beauty to take center stage. And as someone who’s always been drawn to clean, purposeful imagery, it felt like a natural fit.
Day 1 (June 27, 2025) took place at the stunning Curtis Performance Horses in Georgetown Township, MI—a premier, full-service equine facility specializing in the training and showing of Arabian and Half-Arabian horses.
We spent the day fine-tuning our posing techniques, particularly as they relate to the unique standards of the Arabian breed and the nuances of both saddleseat and hunter discipline presentation. The horses? Absolute showstoppers. Each one brought a bold personality to the set, fully embracing the “I’m a looker and I know it” vibe.
Our seven stunning models—Roger, Gryffin, Coco, Whiskey, Woody, Roy, and Birdie—made the day unforgettable. Each had their own flair, and working with such expressive, elegant horses was the perfect way to sharpen my eye and further develop my creative approach to black background sessions.
A huge thank you to Cassidy and Jerry for preparing and handling these incredible horses so beautifully. Your work behind the scenes made the entire experience seamless and enjoyable.
Workshops like these aren’t just about learning—they’re about leveling up so I can offer you more. Black background sessions are officially part of the Kaylin Markart Photography lineup, and I’m so excited to share more of this work in the coming months. Keep an eye out for session openings and special offerings coming soon!
