Meet Samantha Baker | Premier Equine and Pet Portrait Photographer

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

Hi Samantha, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Growing up, I was deeply in touch with my artistic side; doodles of horses and animals adorned the margins of my class notes. I took numerous art classes, incorporating animals into every piece. Eventually, I worked as a veterinary technician and loved it, but I wanted to also share my art. Living in the rolling hills and horses in Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, I purchased my first DSLR camera, set out on my journey as a professional photographer. My adopted dog became my muse as I practiced new techniques. The beautiful artwork I created of her (still displayed in my home) inspired me to establish Steed and Hound Photography. Now I can celebrate with others the love they have for their furry and feathered companions by creating them personal fine art portraits of their pets.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Love’s bond is unbreakable and I create art for those whose family extends to the furry and feathered members. My goal is to ensure everyone who owns a horse, dog, cat, bird, or other type of pet can own a beautiful piece of wall art or a photo album that when looked at invokes a deep feeling of love and personal meaning.

I hold my client’s experience at the forefront of my success. By spending time with each of my clients before and after the session, I get to know their needs and what they are looking for in their portrait session. We start with a planning call, where we discuss where the session will be, and what they are wanting to do with their portraits (wall art or albums), as well as assist in what to wear, settle any worries they may have with their horses or pets not paying attention during the session, and we will even discuss how to get the significant other to have fun. After the session, I sit with the clients for a reveal and design session where we walk through their curated gallery to choose their favorite portraits and design their homes with museum-quality wall art. This experience allows all worries to be eased by knowing they are in the hands of an expert the entire process to help with any questions that come up.

My most proud and difficult decision was to leave my life in Kentucky. At the time I was in my early 30s and for the past 10 years, I was exactly where I wanted to be as a child. However, I knew deep in my soul I was being pushed down a different path. It was a bittersweet decision, and looking back through the highs and lows I would not change anything. That path has brought me to the place I am today and to have a business where I can do what I love and meet some pretty awesome people!

A quote that I hold close over the past few years to help with overcoming scary decisions is “You will never feel ready to do things that scare you. If you want to change your life, you must make the decision to change your life”. Embrace the thrilling sensation of uncertainty, for it is the driving force behind change. Life-altering decisions may terrify you, but they are the stepping stones on your path to success. Things don’t always go as planned and I might dwell on the setbacks, I ultimately learn from the experience and create a new strategy. This persistence continues until I achieve my goal. Developing self-confidence has been crucial in adopting this approach to risk-taking. So, take a leap of faith and transform your world – despite the fear that holds you back.

My heart-dog has played a significant role in the branding and success of my business, forming the inspiration behind Steed and Hound Photography. My driving force is to ensure that everyone with a horse, dog, cat, bird, or any other pet has the opportunity to own a beautiful piece of wall art or an album that captures cherished memories. We understand that our pets are part of our lives for only a short time and we mourn for their presence after they’re gone. With exquisite framed hand-printed canvas for the walls or artisanal albums for coffee tables, we can maintain our love for them through memories these portraits bring back.

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.
Well of course the Stockyards are on everyone’s list that comes to visit… so it is a must! Who am I to disappoint… Haha. There is a little bit of everything from shopping to great food, and we can not forget about the historic Longhorn cattle drive through the streets.

Being a photographer, I do enjoy taking visitors to Kimbell Art Museum. Not only do they have great exhibits and collections, but also workshops where you can learn new skills from a professional guest artist.

There is a little place in Denton called Northpoint Cafe, where we would definitely stop for brunch… My go-to is the chicken and waffles!

Babe’s in Sanger is also must stop for dinner! It’s a classic and it wouldn’t be a visit to Texas without the iconic chicken served family style… YUM!

I am very much an outdoorsy person, so horseback riding will be on the itinerary for sure… Even if you are no into saddling up, there is so much to do around here!

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?
I what to dedicate my shoutout to all of those who have not only stood by me, but also pushed me to follow my dreams as a photographer! If it was not for these people, I would not be where I am today.

Also, a special recognition goes to my Heart-Dog, if it were not for her Steed and Hound Photography would not exist.

Website: steedandhound.com

Instagram: steedandhoundphoto

Facebook: steedandhoundphoto

Image Credits
Steed and Hound Photography