In Sweden, a certified markings expert completes the markings diagram for registrations. Here in North America, our land mass is too large for a limited number of specialists to travel from farm to farm to note markings.
For SWANA to list the most accurate markings on a horse’s registration certificate, we ask that the owner provide two things:
- A set of photos clearly showing all markings from all angles, and
- A fully completed markings diagram (provided on the breeding certificate or on a separate markings form)
At a bare minimum, even for horses with no markings, we need four photos (front, back, left side, and right side). At least one of the photos should clearly show the horse’s facial markings from the front. The horse should be standing and should be clean and not wearing boots or wraps, and the area should be clear of obstruction. The horse should take up as much space as possible in each photo without being cropped. All markings should show up crisp and clear in the photos, leaving little room for doubt. It is important that all four legs are visible in all the photos.
If the horse has any unusual markings or markings that can not be fully seen from the four standard sides (such as underlip markings), additional photos should be provided.
Blurry, poor quality, or very small photos are rarely usable. When sending computer printouts of digital photos, please send large (but still clear and detailed) images. Do not send “thumbnails” since those rarely provide the detail we need. If the photos you send are not detailed enough for us to use, we will have to request a new set of photos from you before we can continue processing the horse’s registration.
Please write the name of the horse on the back of each photo, and do not staple the photos.
Please take time and care with your markings diagram. Complete the diagram with the horse in front of you – do not rely on memory or photos. Please try to be as accurate as possible. Be sure to draw all white markings as they appear from all sides. Please use an outline to indicate markings. Do not color them in.