Of the last 30+ shows we've been to this season and I'd say only one didn't have an official photographer.
The bigger ones use the huge companies like Equinational which provide photographers in every ring.
The smaller ones often are a one man band with him/her just rushing about taking photos of key classes, championships etc.
Even one man bands tend to have somebody back in a tent loading the chips on computers these days though.
Virtually all shows seem to let you access your classes via a computer these days. You can scroll through and pick out the ones you want to buy and order there and then.
Only one local photographer doesn't subsequently load them onto a website for purchase from home - and he's pretty hopeless anyway even though he's been doing it for ages. There is a definitely a knack in getting the sort of photographs people want to buy and usually best if horsey because then they capture the right movement (jockey sitting, horse/pony striding out well etc).
The sort of things we look for in a photograph we'd buy are:
- Good pose by pony and jockey - either at trot or canter (or jumping of course). We also like ones of her with her rosettes on/with judge and trophy if she wins..
- Ability to look at it blown up on computer to check DD hasn't shut her eyes etc!
- Ones that print the name of the show on the cardboard frame are always appealing - especially at well known shows.
- A variety of sizes well priced. We particularly like it if there is a bulk discount.
You'd need to check with your local shows to see how they work it. I guess the photographers pay them to work there.
I imagine that smaller shows are the way to go as more first timers will be keen to get a record whereas people like us are more choosy.
If you print on site I imagine those professional machines are very expensive to buy and run so you need to be sure you'll get enough business to buy one but I think you would need to get one as internet alone may not be enough.