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Consider the dream-like quality of a herd of white horses as they thunder—manes flashing, foam flying—across the shallow marshlands of France’s famous Camargue. Consider, too, the prospect of five days of electrifying photography, capturing every nuance of these powerful “wild” horses, hurtling directly toward your camera, or of stallions engaged in battle for herd dominance. If that notion doesn’t stimulate your photographic creative juices, nothing will!
In the wild, the white Camargue horses are found only on the wetlands and salt marshes of southeastern France. They are thought to be descended from prehistoric horses that lived during the Paleolithic period more than 17,000 years ago. Throughout history, this ancient breed is believed to have been crossed with several other breeds—particularly Arabian horses. This genetic combination permits these brawny animals to withstand the region’s bleak, cold winter and intensely hot summer. They are so strong it is said they are able to canter through mud up to their bellies!
The Camargue horse is the traditional mount of the “Guardians.” The French equivalent of a “cowboy,” these ranch hands of the Camargue are responsible for rounding up the wild black “fighting” bulls that graze the land. Over time, the Guardians have developed the original breed of Camargue horses into a surprisingly agile, surefooted and reliable horse. The Camargue is considered one of Europe’s few remaining original breeds, although it was not officially recognized as a unique breed until 1967. Today, there are about 30 separate herds spread over an area of around 346,000 acres. Foals are born from April through July. And though they are born dark in color, all the Camargue horses are white when mature. It is speculated that white coats may provide a natural mosquito repellent for animals adapted to salt marsh living.
Our amazing photo shoot will concentrate on shooting the horses during the best light of day, with the goal of creating images depicting as much of their untamed life as possible. Horse drives orchestrated by the Guardians will be at the top of our shooting list, but fighting stallions, mares with foals, and quiet moments in the marshes will also be on our agenda. Our Photo Safari takes place on private ranchland adjacent to the Parc Régional de Camargue—a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Here, along with the famous horses and bulls, dwell an interesting assortment of wading birds and shorebirds, including impressive flocks of flamingos. With luck we’ll see some of these colorful waders during breaks in the action. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to photograph the dream-like white horses of the Camargue for yourself! This shoot can be combined with an optional post-trip extension to the picturesque villages and countryside of Provence in springtime.
Day 1
Depart from home.
Day 2
Arrive in Marseille. Meet this evening for a get-acquainted dinner. (D)
Day 3
Drive to our ranch in the Camargue, afternoon horse photo shoot. (BLD)
Days 4–7
We photograph the famous white horses running through the shallow water of salt marshes or on the beach. There will be shots of mothers and foals,
fighting stallions and many opportunities for detailed close-up images—head shots, and Guardian riders in their gear. (BLD)
Day 8
After a morning horse shoot, drive back to Marseille. (BLD)
Day 9
Depart for home at any time or continue on an extension to the villages of Provence. (B)
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