If you’ve ever watched a war epic, a cowboy western, or a period drama featuring elegant carriages, you’ve likely admired the trained horses that bring these scenes to life. Horses play a vital role in many film and TV productions, and working with them offers an exciting blend of equestrian expertise and behind-the-scenes magic.
How do you get to work with horses in film and TV?
Why Do Productions Need Horses?
Horses are used across a wide variety of film and TV genres:
- Historical Dramas: Think Downton Abbey or Bridgerton — productions where carriages, cavalry, or country estates require equestrian flair.
- Action Films: Horses are often central to stunts, chases, or dramatic battles, like in Game of Thrones or Gladiator.
- Modern Settings: Horses appear in police dramas, sporting scenes, and heartfelt family stories.
Each production needs skilled professionals to manage and train the horses, ensure their safety, and sometimes perform in front of the camera themselves.
Jobs Involving Horses in Film/TV
Here are the main roles you can explore:
- Horse Trainer
- Train horses for specific tasks like galloping, standing still, or responding to cues on set.
- Desensitise horses to unfamiliar environments, such as bright lights, loud noises, and crowds.
- Horse Wrangler
- Manage and care for horses on set, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Coordinate horse movements during filming, often working closely with trainers and directors.
- Stunt Rider
- Perform riding stunts, such as falls, jumps, and high-speed chases. You may also double for actors.
- Equestrian Consultant
- Advise filmmakers on the historical accuracy of horse-related elements, including tack, riding styles, and horse behaviour.
- Groom or Stable Hand
- Handle the daily care of horses during production, including feeding, grooming, and preparing them for scenes.
- Actor with Riding Skills
- Many productions look for actors who can ride. If you’re already pursuing acting, strong riding skills can give you a unique edge.
- Animal Logistics Coordinator
- Organise the transportation, accommodation, and scheduling of horses used in the production.
- Horse Owner/Lender
- If you own trained horses, you can rent them out to production companies for use in filming.
How to Get Started
Breaking into this niche field requires a combination of equestrian expertise and networking within the film and TV industry. Here are some steps to take:
- Develop Advanced Riding and Training Skills
- Pursue certifications, such as those from the British Horse Society (BHS) or equivalent organisations in your region.
- Focus on specialised skills like stunt riding, groundwork, or desensitisation training for horses.
- Gain Experience with Horse Wrangling Companies
- Work with established horse wrangling teams or equestrian services for film. This is one of the best ways to learn the ropes and build connections.
- UK examples include:
- Understand the Film Industry
- Learn set etiquette and the basics of how productions operate. Familiarity with long hours, tight schedules, and working under pressure is essential.
- Consider taking short courses or workshops on working with animals in film.
- Build Your Network
- Attend equestrian and film industry events to meet professionals in both fields.
- Join professional organisations like Equity (for stunt riders and actors) or industry directories like Animal Consultants International.
- Start Small
- Look for opportunities to assist on smaller projects, like local independent films or student productions. This experience can help you build a portfolio and reputation.
- Create a Portfolio
- Showcase your equestrian skills and any relevant film work in a professional portfolio. Include photos, videos, and references to demonstrate your capabilities.
Working with horses in film and TV is both challenging and rewarding. You’ll need dedication, a passion for equestrian work, and the ability to adapt to the unpredictable nature of production life. But for those who love horses and storytelling, it’s an unforgettable way to combine two passions.
A couple of sites that may be able to give you more information.
