Genay Vaughn - Elk Grove, CA


All of my shoots hold a special place in my heart, but this one was even more special - this is my first COVER feature for Sidelines Magazine!


I had the pleasure of photographing dressage rider Genay Vaughn in Elk Grove, CA for the COVER feature in the August 2025 issue of Sidelines Magazine. It was a beautiful March day at her family's beautiful world class equestrian facility, Starr Vaughn Equestrian. Starr Vaughn Equestrian offers dressage training, sales, breeding, foaling and rehab, and also hosts events such as dressage shows and clinics. Genay and her mom, Michele, make a great team. Michele is the head trainer and manages the facility while Genay works more with the horses and clients.


We had so much fun capturing Genay and her horses, Gino and Goldie, and her cute little dog, Kona. Genay is such an incredible woman, competing at the Grand Prix dressage level and representing the United States on the international stage. Her lifelong passion has turned into an amazing career that she loves and is so thankful for.


Genay also has an incredible sense of fashion, so it was very fun to help her select outfits from her wardrobe that she brought out!


Be sure to read more about Genay and Starr Vaughn Equestrian in her Sideline's feature.

A majestic black horse stands with its caretaker on a tree-lined path during golden hour.
A dark horse wearing bridle and reins stands with someone in a pink sweater outdoors.
Woman in tan sweater and jeans leading a dark horse through a park on an autumn afternoon.
A scenic equestrian trail ride through autumn trees with riders on horseback enjoying the wilderness view.
A black horse stands beside someone wearing a peach sweater in a sunlit outdoor setting.
A black horse stands next to someone wearing a peach colored top in an outdoor setting with golden lighting.
A dark horse stands on a path in dappled sunlight beside someone wearing a peach sweater and riding boots.
Artistic black and white photo showing someone walking alongside a large black horse on a paved path.
Someone gently strokes the muzzle of a large black horse in a peaceful woodland setting at sunset.
A majestic black horse and someone in a peach-colored sweater pose together during golden hour.
A dark horse wearing riding tack stands next to someone in casual attire outdoors.
A dark horse stands beside someone wearing white boots and jeans on a grassy field.
Black and white equestrian portrait featuring a horse with traditional English riding tack.
Person in casual attire interacting with a black and white horse against a backdrop of palm trees.
A tall black horse stands beside someone in casual white clothing on a sunny day.

Sessions like this are thoughtfully planned from start to finish - from location and styling to capturing authentic connection between horse and rider.


You can learn more about what a session includes and what to expect at the link below.