Behind the Scenes

Working cowboys are common in many areas of the West. In some areas, annual competitions are held with ranch managers and ranch hands as the participating contestants. Similar to a rodeo but a lot more casual, they are typically called Ranch Rodeos or Roundups. The regional ranches participate in these competitions and, although not considered "professional" as those in the rodeo circuit, they are definitely professional in their skills. What I like about these events is that I can get reference photos that are much more candid. In this way, I can capture the mood of the working cowboy and infuse that feeling into the modern approach of my style.

This cowboy has nailed his objective - the calf who is perpetually-dodging the ropes to prevent his capture  - and is ensuring the loops remain in place on the snared 4-legged critter. He glances behind him while nudging his horse forward to keep the ropes taut. The two of them are a team, each knowing his own duties to complete the mission - to be as efficient as possible with this routine. Although this is a common operation on a working ranch, in a Ranch Rodeo, the clock determines the team winners as they head for the goal of having the best timing.

Gallery info coming soon!