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Charleston, WV
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Meet the Photographer

I’m Amanda, a fine art horse and rider photographer drawn to the moments that can’t be forced—the quiet trust, emotion, and connection shared between horse and rider. I believe the most powerful portraits aren’t posed; they’re felt. They happen in the in-between moments, when both horse and rider are simply present together.

My journey with photography began early. My very first 4-H project in elementary school focused on photography, and from that moment on, I was hooked. I grew up learning the discipline of film, transitioned through the evolution of digital photography, and now work with modern mirrorless systems—always refining my craft as both the tools and my vision evolved.

Photography has never been about documenting moments for me—it has always been about preserving stories. From years of observing light, movement, and expression, I’ve developed a thoughtful, detail-driven approach that allows each image to feel timeless rather than trendy.

Today, my work is centered entirely on horse and rider partnerships. Each session is approached with patience, care, and respect for the bond being captured, resulting in portraits designed to be lived with—displayed as fine art and treasured long after the moment has passed.

Rooted in experience. Guided by intention. Curated as fine art.

A Personal Connection to the Equestrian World

My work in horse and rider photography is deeply personal. It began through my daughters, Elaina and Julia, whose passion for riding opened the door to the equestrian world and reshaped how I saw connection, partnership, and trust. Watching them grow alongside their horses revealed how powerful a single image can be in telling a story—one built on dedication, patience, and love.

While I’ve always been an animal lover, horses introduced me to a deeper, quieter bond—one that unfolds over time and is often felt more than spoken. That understanding now guides the way I approach every session, allowing me to recognize and capture moments that feel genuine and unforced.

The name AJE carries that story forward. It represents Amanda, Julia, and Elaina—our shared connection to this world and the values behind my work. On occasion, my girls assist during sessions, bringing a calm presence and an intuitive ease around horses that helps both riders and horses feel comfortable.

When we work together, my focus is on creating an unhurried, relaxed environment where trust can take the lead. I rely on natural light, patience, and thoughtful observation to draw out authentic moments. The result is refined, timeless imagery—portraits that reflect not just how it looked, but how it felt to stand beside your horse in that moment.

For me, this isn’t just photography. It’s storytelling. It’s preserving a piece of your life and the relationships that matter most, so you can treasure them for generations.

Beyond the Camera

When I’m not behind the camera, I also work in higher education and public health. Outside of work, home life is where I’m most grounded—spending time with my husband, Michael, and our three kids, Landon, Elaina, and Julia.

Life is full and simple in the best way: quiet evenings on the porch, family game nights, traveling together, and cheering from the sidelines at our many activities. Our three dogs—Paddy, Gertie, and Rubble—are always close by, adding their own energy and joy to everyday moments.

At heart, I value being present and connected—to my family, to the animals we love, and to the moments that often become the most meaningful over time. It’s that same appreciation for connection and home that quietly shapes the way I see and photograph the world.

The moments that matter most often live in the spaces we call home.
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Charleston, WV