Dan Oosterhous is the team photographer for Champions Equestrian, where he combines a lifelong passion for athletics, coaching, and storytelling through photography. Some of his favorite moments behind the camera are capturing equestrian athletes in their element. Dan is drawn to the moments that showcase the unique partnership between horse and athlete.

A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Dan served more than 21 years as an Air Force officer and pilot, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He later spent 14 seasons as head coach of the Air Force Academy Men’s Tennis Team before transitioning into athletic administration at the Academy.

Dan’s contributions to athletics have earned him induction into both the Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame and the Air Force Academy Athletics Hall of Fame. As a collegiate athlete, coach, and administrator, he has spent decades helping athletes pursue excellence both on and off the field of competition.

His journey has also been defined by resilience. In 2013, Dan suffered two brainstem strokes that significantly affected his mobility. Refusing to let those challenges define him, he turned to adaptive sports as part of his recovery. He competed with the U.S. Air Force Wounded Warrior Team and represented Team USA in the Invictus Games, earning medals and demonstrating the same perseverance that has guided him throughout his military, athletic, and coaching career.

Dan and Cynda enjoy working together, including coaching at Equestrian Athlete Training Camps at the Chula Vista Olympic Training Center in California. Their shared commitment to helping athletes perform at their best makes their partnership a natural fit both in and out of the arena.

Through Champions Photography, Dan seeks to share his love of the natural world, from star-filled night skies and mountain landscapes to sunrises, sunsets, and wide-open spaces. Today, he brings that same passion to the equestrian community, creating images that celebrate the connection between horse and rider, preserve meaningful memories, and tell the unique story of every athlete, family, and horse he photographs.

Visit www.danosphotos.com to learn more about Dan and Champions Photography!