Every horse has two identities—a barn name and a show name.
IntroducING "Halston", AKA Lopin N My Blu Genes.
To the outside world, he is Halston. But in the show ring, he carries the name: Lopin N My Blu Genes. A striking blue roan, his coat coloring is the literal inspiration behind his registered name—and the exact where Blu Genes Photography.
If you know him, you know he is a bit feisty; he is the type of horse who isn't afraid to nip. But beneath that fiery exterior is a horse who deeply loves and protects the people he trusts. Our story began five years ago when we crossed paths on the UC Davis Division 1 equestrian team; he was the horse I did my first scrimmage on. After a few recurring suspensory injuries cut his competitive career short, the university made the decision to retire him from the team. They trusted me with his future, and he has officially been mine for the past year.
Halston represents everything I bring behind the camera. He is proof that breathtaking beauty often comes with a little grit, and that true connection is earned through trust, patience, and understanding exactly who someone is—whether they walk on two legs or four.
The Drive Behind the Lens
Get to know me
Spending those years competing as a Division 1 collegiate equestrian athlete at UC Davis—and accumulating over 20 years in the saddle—shaped entirely how I approach my craft. I don't just stand back and passively click a shutter; I bring a high-level competitive drive and absolute precision to every session.
Two decades of handling elite equine athletes means I read horse body language in a split second. I know exactly how to anticipate their movements, ensure we catch that flawless stride, and keep both horse and rider entirely safe, calm, and looking effortless in what could otherwise be a high-stress environment.
Creating the Potential I See
That same intuitive drive doesn't stay in the arena; it is the exact foundation of my photography work. Just like a spirited horse, humans often feel exposed, stiff, or entirely awkward the moment a camera lens is pointed at them. My job is to completely dismantle that pressure and capture the movement of the moment.
Over the last five years of shooting professionally, I’ve learned that the most breathtaking images aren't forced—they are created by providing a space where you can simply exist as you are. I guide away from traditional, rigid posing and into genuine, unforced interactions. I am here to translate the fleeting moments of real life into striking, timeless art.
The Journey Starts Here
Thank you for being here at the very beginning of Blu Genes Photography. Whether you are looking to capture the fierce bond between you and your horse, celebrate a milestone, or document your unique love story, I am ready to bring my drive to your vision.
Explore my curated collections, check out my latest session highlights on the blog, or check out on Instagram. I cannot wait to create more in the future.