Blog #2 – Communication, Connection, and Creativity: Day 2 of Jesse Klein’s Black Background Workshop
Blog #2 – Communication, Connection, and Creativity: Day 2 of Jesse Klein’s Black Background Workshop
by Kaylin Markart Photography
After an unforgettable first day at Curtis Performance Horses, we moved into Day 2 of Jesse Klein’s Black Background Workshop, held at The Barn for Equine Learning in Lowell, Michigan. This location brought a whole new energy to the experience—with models of all shapes, sizes, and colors, ranging from pint-sized minis to towering warmbloods. It was the perfect setting to put our skills to the test with a truly diverse lineup of equine beauty.
While day 1 was all about learning the technical details and refining posing techniques, day 2 centered around something equally important: communication. Not just with the horses in front of the lens, but with the people behind the scenes as well.
I had the chance to practice fine-tuning the skills I’d gained the day before while also focusing on how to clearly communicate my vision to assistants and clients. I realized how much of a successful session relies not just on artistic ability, but on setting the right expectations and creating an atmosphere where everyone feels safe, confident and comfortable.
From discussing what poses or expressions a client hopes to see, to directing assistants on movement or positioning, asking the right questions upfront is essential. What’s most important to highlight about the horse? Are there any areas you’d like me to retouch in the final edits? Would you like your horse to be photographed in line with breed or discipline standards, or would you prefer a more relaxed, personal approach? Are there specific details—like mane, tail, tack, or markings—that you’d like emphasized or adjusted?
By slowing down, communicating effectively, and listening closely, I saw firsthand how those conversations shape the session and ultimately lead to results that exceed expectations. Because at the end of the day, a black background portrait isn’t just about creating a striking image—it’s about telling a story that feels authentic to the client and their horse.
Day 2 was the perfect reminder that artistry and communication go hand in hand. I left The Barn for Equine Learning not only more confident in my technical skills, but also more intentional about how I guide my clients through the process from start to finish. Every horse, every client, and every session is unique—and it’s my job to honor that individuality while ensuring the experience feels seamless and enjoyable.
Workshops like this one reaffirm why I love what I do: they push me to refine my craft, elevate the services I provide, and deliver images that clients can cherish for a lifetime. I’m beyond excited to bring these lessons into future sessions and to continue creating portraits that are as thoughtful, timeless, and unforgettable as the horses themselves.
