Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristina Truluck.
Hi Kristina, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I joined the U.S. Army in 2009 as a Combat Documentation/Production Specialist, better known as Combat Camera. My deployment to Afghanistan from 2011 to 2012 was a pivotal experience, and after returning home and welcoming my youngest son, I began to seek healing from the challenges I faced, including severe PTSD. In 2014, I found solace in volunteering at a horse rescue in Maryland. Working with these incredible animals brought a new light into my life, helping me to heal as I helped them recover from their own traumas.
It was during this time that I began bringing my camera to the rescue, initially just capturing moments with the horses. Little did I know that this would spark a passion for equine photography. After being medically retired from the Army, I joined my husband in Kentucky and continued to immerse myself in the world of horses, volunteering at a therapeutic riding center. Horses once again played a crucial role in helping me rediscover myself after the loss of my identity as a soldier.
It was at this center that I met my heart horse, Dinero—a sassy, opinionated gelding who became the perfect project and partner for me. When we learned we were moving to El Paso, Texas, in 2021, Dinero’s owner gifted him to me, believing we were a perfect match. Owning Dinero was a dream come true and a testament to the healing power of horses.
Upon arriving in far west Texas, I decided to channel my passion and experience into establishing my equine photography business. Since then, I’ve traveled across the southwest, capturing the unique bond between horses and the people who love them. My journey has been one of healing, growth, and finding a new purpose through my lens.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth road—it’s been a journey marked by healing, pitfalls, growth, and love. My journey began with a simple passion for photographing horses as they were, but it took several years for me to discover my love for capturing the beauty and power of horses through black background photos and the deep connection between equestrians and their horses through portraits. My photojournalistic heart is also drawn to the joy of photographing teams in the show pen, where I can celebrate their wins and growth.
One of the biggest challenges has been starting my business almost from scratch each time I moved. Each location has its own unique set of obstacles, but despite these challenges, I’ve cherished the opportunity to connect with fellow equestrians wherever I go. These experiences have not only shaped my business but also deepened my love for this art and the community that comes with it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in equine photography, capturing the beauty, power, and personality of horses, as well as the deep bond between horses and their people. My work primarily focuses on two distinct areas: black background portraits that emphasize the horse’s raw beauty and strength, and intimate, emotive portraits that showcase the connection between equestrians and their horses. Additionally, my photojournalistic style shines in capturing teams in the show pen, highlighting their victories and progress over time.
What sets me apart is my background in Combat Camera, where I honed my skills in storytelling through imagery, and my personal journey of healing through horses. This unique combination allows me to see beyond just the technical aspects of photography—I’m deeply connected to the emotions behind each image, whether it’s the power of a horse or the love shared between horse and rider. I’ve been through my own journey of growth and healing with horses, which gives me a profound understanding of what my clients feel and experience in those moments.
I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients and the fact that I’ve been able to create art that holds deep emotional value for them. Each time I reveal a gallery, whether it’s capturing a proud moment in the show ring or the tender bond in a portrait session, I know I’m preserving memories that will last a lifetime. My work goes beyond just beautiful photos—it’s about telling a meaningful story that resonates.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I take risks every time I work with horses, but I believe that risk-taking is part of the beauty of what I do. Horses are unpredictable by nature, and photographing them requires a deep understanding of their behavior and instincts. Over time, I’ve developed an ability to read and anticipate their actions, which allows me to capture dynamic moments while ensuring safety for both myself and the horse.
In many ways, I put trust in the entire process—in the equestrians who work with their horses, in the horses themselves, in my instincts, and in my healthcare, which helps me manage my own physical well-being. Some of my favorite images have been captured during high-energy moments, like having equestrians lope their horses toward me, knowing they’ll steer away at the last second. These are calculated risks, but they result in incredible, powerful photos that tell the story of the connection between horse and rider.
Beyond the physical risks, I’ve taken emotional and financial risks in pursuing this career—building my business from the ground up each time I move and betting on my passion to carry me forward. I view risk as necessary for growth, whether it’s putting myself in the middle of a fast-moving show pen or investing everything I have into building a business that aligns with my heart. Taking risks has taught me resilience and given me the confidence to push my creative boundaries.
Pricing:
- 500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.truluckphoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truluckphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/truluckphoto
Image Credits
Personal photo by FoxTrot Photography
