When time permits, noted Equestrian Photographer Al Cook can be found reeling in striped bass along the Chesapeake Bay (Photo by Alice Cook/Courtesy Al Cook Productions).

AL COOK: THE OFFICIAL IHSA NATIONALS PHOTOGRAPHER

If you are an IHSA Nationals qualifier the chances are very good that Al Cook will be taking your picture sometime between May 4th and 7th. For the 14th time since Hollins hosted the championships in 1991, Cook is the Official Photographer of IHSA Nationals. Cook operates Al Cook Productions, which specializes in both Photography and Video Production (www.acphotovideo.com is his web site, with www.acphotovideo.com/equine being the direct link for his Equestrian work). Based in Virginia, Cook has taken photos for Corporate Catalogs, Book Covers and even the Washington International Horse Show, for which he is also the Official Photographer. Cook received the 2005 "Photography in Journalism" award from the Chronicle of the Horse for his 2004 photo of former Virginia Intermont rider Morgan Graber taking a jump with 'Miss Perfect.' We recently e-mailed Cook a few questions to find out how long he has been in the field, the circumstances of his award-winning photo and if riders from past IHSA Nationals can still obtain photos from their glory days.

CE: Can you tell me in your words about the photo that recently won you the "Photography in Journalism" Award from the Chronicle of the Horse?

AC: Actually there isn't a lot to say that Tricia Booker (editor at the Chronicle of the Horse) didn't say in her caption. It was one of those beautiful early springtime days, horse & rider going well, and me lucky enough to get a good shot of the event champion. I was certainly honored to be picked for that award in 2005 - among all the great photos that were in the running. Shooting with 460mm did add the look that compressed the image and shortended the depth of field. At outdoor events I go for long lenses as much as possible - giving greater attention to the horse and rider.

CE: How long have you been in the Photography business?

AC: I started in the business in 1975 - time flies when you're having fun. In addition to horses I do a good bit of corporate/advertising photography and video production. Last year I did a shoot for Sweet Briar College's riding program emphasing my expertise in equine photography but being enhanced by my advertising photography involvement. A number of those images have been, and are being used for the school, not only to illustrate the riding program but to promote all the offerings at Sweet Briar.

CE: Do you have a specific memory of something that happened at an IHSA show? This can relate to your photography but it does not have to.

AC: What stands out about the IHSA is the joy of the event. Kids and coaches from all over the nation getting together and competing with great sportsmanship and camradery. I'm treated as one of the family, and I appreciate that.

CE: How far back do you save your photos from IHSA Nationals? If someone rode at Nationals in 1999 can they still contact you for a print?

AC: We have photos back to my first IHSA in 1991, so if someone has an old proof, the negative or digital file should be available.

Cook, whose admits his favorite pastime is fishing, will always be found in the winner's circle following each class at IHSA Nationals. If you are not able to speak with Cook at the show itself, his e-mail address is studio@acphotovideo.com or he may be contacted through the equestrian portion of his website, www.acphotovideo.com/equine (which currently includes images from 2005 IHSA Nationals).

--Steve Maxwell