Meet Michelle Randolph | Draft horse photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Randolph and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, other than deciding to work for yourself, what else do you think played a pivotal role in your story?
When I upgraded my equipment and bought professional cameras and lenses and invested in my self I saw my ability improve tremendously.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I had never even touched a draft horse let alone photographed one and didn’t know there were draft horse shows. In 2009 I got asked to shoot one. I’m an incredibly shy person and it’s hard for me to walk up to strangers and start shooting. Once I overcame my fears I realized I have a knack for catching emotion and interactions between horse and human.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Shipshewana Indiana is in the heart of draft horse country. I’d go during the 6 horse hitch finals. The top 5 hitches of Clydesdales/Shires, percherons and belgian draft horses are there to compete for the top spot. I’d eat at the blue gate and visit the flea market. Also take in some of the Amish farms around the area. Then watch the 3 days of the show. There are cart classes all the way up to 6 horse hitches. Then day 3 the champion is announced.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My friend, Linda Harmon, showed me how to set horses up and look for the best angles. She kept pushing me to realize I was good enough.

Website: Www.michellezphotos.com

Facebook: Michelle Martin Randolph