Black Background Portraits

Kelly J. Russo Photography

Your Heart Horse is a work of art...


Timeless and elegant, black background portraits are ideally suited for creating beautiful artwork for your home. Easy to set up in a barn aisle, all background distractions are removed emphasizing your horse as the main subject.

close up portrait of horse eye on black background
detail photo of braided horse mane on black background
profile image of warmblood horse on black background

No Studio or Complicated Lighting Set up Needed


What looks like a studio-type portrait is actually not!


All I need is a barn aisle, afternoon lighting and Photoshop! (and maybe some treats).


Holiday Add-ons Available!

black horse wearing christmas wreath on black background
close up of horse with fairy lights in background
holiday equine photo houston texas

Images You'll Want to Display In Your Home....


Ordering wall art is easy through your online, personalized gallery! A variety of frames, canvases and desk prints available.

Ready to get started?

You can email me at kelly@kellyjrusso.com

or just click the button below to pick a time on my calendar to schedule a call.

Additional Information

Preparing Your Horse For the Session


I've written a guide for how to best prepare for a black background session. You can read more by clicking here.

portrait of thoroughbred horse on black background looking over shoulder

Frequently Asked Questions

How are Black background sessions done?

The session is usually done with just natural lighting from the entrance to a barn aisle or indoor arena. Depending on the location, I might also set up some black backdrops to block out any additional background lighting, this is attached to the barn sides of the alleyway. Everything else is edited out with Photoshop for the final image!

Do you do holiday themed sessions?

Yes I do! I offer these as special sessions through out the year. In these types of sessions, the majority of the images are headshots, but we still will see the top line, shoulder, chest. I will usually bring a variety of wreaths to choose from but you can also provide your own!

How far do you travel?

I am based in Fort Bend County and will travel throughout the greater Houston area. Travel fees may apply for distances over 25 miles.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes! I offer discounts for 4 or more booked horses at the same barn on the same day.