River's Bank

"Banks"

Owned and Loved

by Kiara LeMaire

Bay Yard Farms

Black Background Studio Portrait Session

The Great Southwest Equestrian Center

Katy, Texas

"Banks isn’t just a horse, he is a whole presence. He’s the kind of horse who fills every space he walks into, not because he’s the biggest, but because he has a personality that refuses to go unnoticed. He’s goofy in all the best ways, a master of dramatic expressions, and somehow grumpy and endearing at the exact same time. He has opinions about everything, prefers people to other horses (unless you count his one equally weird best friend), and will never turn down a cuddle as long as there’s at least a 50% chance of snacks involved.

He’s the horse who meets you with a soft nicker one day and a full-blown “don’t talk to me” face the next. He’ll make you laugh right when you need it, roll his eyes at you when you deserve it, and remind you—constantly—that life doesn’t have to be so serious.

But more than anything, Banks is light.He’s the bright spot in the chaos, the comfort in the hard moments, the one consistent reminder that joy still exists even on the days you don’t feel it. There is something about him—something warm, grounding, and steady—that makes the world feel a little easier.

Riding him feels like a gift I never take for granted. Every time I swing a leg over him, I’m reminded of how truly magical he is. He tries his heart out, he listens, he learns, and he gives—even when he could so easily choose attitude instead. The way he meets me halfway, the way he grows with me, the way he trusts me… it’s rare. It’s special. And it’s something I’m grateful for every single day.Banks may act like a comedian trapped in a sport horse’s body, but he has the soul of a once-in-a-lifetime partner. He’s the one who lightens the heavy days, brightens the good ones, and makes the simple act of being around him feel like a privilege."

~Kiara LeMaire

Based in Katy, Texas, Kristie Scholten photographs horses throughout the country, creating treasured artwork for the ones that love them.  Horse and Rider and Equine Studio sessions are available at upcoming events in 2026 at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center, the Kentucky Horse Park, HITS Ocala, or at your barn, by appointment.  

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