What Motivates Me
Krisco Kid was at his last stop before the “kill pen.” His 85 racing starts and career earnings of $141,884 did not keep him from being considered expendable. Now his life depended on someone in the small gathering of people at the auction to think he still had enough promise for them to raise their hand, but the sticker wasn’t helping. It meant “no Coggins”—a blood test many bidders require. Begin Again Horse Rescue recognized his contribution in life, as well as his promise. 50 bucks. Sold. Next?

My Solution
The fact that this happens on a regular basis motivates me to create imagery that changes how people feel about horses–photos that strengthen the connections we have with them by reinforcing how much they matter to us. We put a tremendous amount of effort, time and focus into our cherished companions. We’re devastated when we lose them and know we’ll miss the emotional gifts they provide, but so often have nothing beautiful and tangible to remind us of their value now and after they’re gone.

I offer a reflection of that value in creative, compelling imagery–the artful essence within each horse and each relationship. Reflections that matter.

I want to add to everyone’s conscious awareness of the enormous benefits of a two-way trust and respect between a horse and a human. I believe when this becomes common knowledge, “excess” horses will find a better place than a slaughterhouse.

I donate a portion of all that I make in this work to horse rescue and rehabilitation because my dream is that one day, many more horses will be needed to fill medical prescriptions for children and adults to calm down and/or experience positive emotions instead of relying on drugs.

My Offer
I promise…I’ll capture the sweetest tries, talents, and the most telling and amusing expressions as I follow you and your horse like a fly on the wall. I’ll let your connection reveal itself naturally to tell your unique story.

My passion for doing this work is supported by a degree in art, a love of photography, a long career as a graphic designer and photo editor. I have an underlying belief that when the horses’ best interest determines the human’s approach to interaction, magic happens. And that’s what I want to show the world.

I’ve experienced the love, tears, intuition, hope, determination, guts and guessing that go into loving and interacting with a horse. I know what to look for through my lens and I hope you’ll give me the opportunity to honor the relationship you’ve built with imagery of a story you’ll always treasure.

Thank You
The photo of Krisco Kid was taken by an inspirational equine photographer in the northeast by the name of Carien Schippers. She sent me her photo to share the story of what happens to horses when they outlive their “usefulness” or our capacity to care for them. Rescue organizations, typically operating on shoestring budgets, are their only hope (more stories and links below).

Michelle Twohig      

P.S. I’ve listed a few equine rescue organizations below, each with many heart-warming stories. Perhaps you’ll find one that speaks to your heart and support them in memory of a horse you’ve loved:
Second Chance Ranch Elma, WA
Horse Rescue United Allentown, NJ
Angel Acres Lenville, PA
Begin Again Horse Rescue Honeoye, NY
Golden Carrot Rescue Anza, CA
Changing Leads Equine Rescue Kansas City, MO

Horses in Need Documentary Project
photos, stories, and links to many more rescue organizations.

Here’s the before and after of Dodger, the horse I rescued and fell in love with: