Although I’ve never been able to put into words what’s so magical about horses, for me, they are the most beautiful of all subjects. Thoroughbreds can run with breathtaking power and stunning speed, but, on the other hand, they can also have such gentle personalities and so much patience. Whether I see a horse dance into a racetrack paddock or stand unmoving at a farm, gazing off toward who-knows-what, it will forever be a magical sight.

You can sometimes tell through the viewfinder if a photograph has potential. You can even change camera settings while shooting a race, for instance, if several horses approach a race finish together. But even then, a shot may not be what you’d hoped for. I never assume I’ve captured a great photo; I’m happy with a good, usable one. I’ll try for a great photo again during the next race.

While it’s not my all-time favorite photo that I’ve shot, the most important moment I’ve photographed professionally is likely American Pharoah winning the 2015 Belmont Stakes. His was the first Triple Crown victory since Affirmed won in 1978, an extremely important historical moment for racing. I was pleased with my resulting photo of American Pharoah zooming past the wire, shot at ground level with a remote camera. You can see the large crowd and old Belmont Park in the background.

Some horses shine with personality while other horses are more quiet, laid-back, difficult to “read.” But the more you study them, their personalities begin to show. When I’m at the track, horses can be antsy, relaxed or something in between before a race. Regardless, each deserves for me to record them in the most positive light possible. At farms, there’s more time and leeway, since horses and handlers are in a more relaxed setting. Horses sense the more relaxed conditions and often respond very favorably, which (hopefully) leads to good photos.

The founder, Michael Blowen, was a writer for The Boston Globe who wanted to start a farm for retired thoroughbreds. Daily Racing Form formed a partnership with Blowen early on to produce an annual magazine to help raise money for the farm. I roam the farm quite a few days each year, seeking the best shots of the farm’s roster of wonderful “old friends.” Every day there is a new adventure. Their horses range from Kentucky Derby winners to horses very few people have ever heard of. But each one deserves to have dignity in their retirement years. Each one has a story and is unique, beautiful and inspirational. I’m very honored to work with Old Friends.