Sometimes the best sessions come from unexpected connections.
I first met Christine through my obsession with Shelvis and the Roustabouts. Over time, she became one of my favorite dancing buddies at their shows. She’s also the partner of Donny Dark—one of the band’s lead guitar players—who surprised her with a Valentine’s Day photo session I was running earlier this year.
When Christine and I started talking about ideas, she wasn’t sure what kind of shoot she wanted. I asked about her interests, and she mentioned her love for the outdoors and horses. That was all I needed to hear.
Through my connections in the recovery community, I reached out to Serenity Stables, a beautiful nonprofit that helps people heal through connection with horses. The owner, also named Christine, and her team—especially Kelsey—welcomed us with open arms. Their kindness and passion made the entire experience unforgettable.
For Christine, this was a chance to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with something bigger than herself. The horses offered her a few kisses and created moments that felt genuinely moving. Bear, the dog, was the unexpected bonus—adding a touch of warmth and humor to the evening.
I’ll be photographing with Serenity Stables again soon, and I can’t wait to highlight the incredible work they’re doing. For now, I’m simply grateful for the day we all shared—the light, the laughter, and the reminder that connection can heal in more ways than one.
