Behind the Scenes: COWGIRL Magazine Cover Shot

During the Hobby Horse, Summer 2022 photo shoot at 5M Ranch in San Juan Capistrano we shot 19 looks with 3 models and 3 horses. While the entire shoot was a huge success resulting in hundreds of images that have been used on our social media platforms, on our website, in advertisements, and more, the perfect moment came together at approximately 3:15 pm with only the 2nd look of the day. Model Lauren Kelsey, a 3 time Hobby Horse model, was paired with the equine model Notice I’m Packin (“Kimber”) owned by Julie Sherburne. Paige Morgan of @thewesternfashionpaige styled the look with pieces including a fashion hat by Greeley Hat Works, black shorts, a tank from her personal collection, Ariat booties, and Sunwest Silver Co turquoise jewelry from CEO, Kristin Titov’s personal collection. Hair and makeup were done by Cassidy Bulwan of Summit Beauty, who was pulling double duty at the shoot both modeling and beautifying the models. Photographer, Kirstie Marie Jones shares, "Working with the team at Hobby Horse is the greatest joy plus biggest blessing. This team’s talent and effort are unmatched. So much goes into the meticulous planning of a set this large, and everyone executed that plan flawlessly on the day of the photoshoot! I’ve had the opportunity to work with most of the team and models before, so instantly we had a relationship and connection. When no warm-up period is needed, it allows for magic to happen right out of the starting gate!"

Kirstie arrived early to the shoot and toured the entire ranch scoping out which spots might work best for each look. She has full creative control during the shoots deciding shot locations and even specific poses. At her direction, Lauren and Kimber lined up in the dark barn aisle with the only light coming from the sun in front of them and the chandeliers above them. No reflectors or wind machines needed, just natural light and a bit of a breeze - oh ya, and a talented photographer, gorgeous horse, and a fierce model styled to perfection!

According to Kirstie, "This was a brand new location for everyone, so immediately after scouting I had my eye on the dramatic barn aisle entrance. The Zaza top was a favorite of mine from this collection, and I love how Paige Morgan styled this for a fun, casual western fashion look. I paired this look with the barn aisle for two main reasons: the light here would really show off the dimension of the jacket, and the backdrop of the barn would compliment the beauty of Lauren and Kimber without competing for your eye’s attention. When I lifted my camera, Kimber’s attention locked onto something in the distance and Lauren expertly went to work posing!”

We are so proud of all the hard work and talent the entire team put into this shoot and it’s such an honor to have our image selected for the cover of COWGIRL Magazine!