I have followed the rise of SDNN since their numerous “BETA” releases back in March. I watched with optimism as they professed their commitment to “hyper-local” coverage. I cringed and turned away when a torrent of courtesy photos, some straight from Flickr, told me that they were not interested in funding quality professional photojournalism. In the earlier days, with their front page often dominated by nationalstories from the Associated Press, I strongly questioned whether they really had a commitment to substantive local coverage. It remains to be seen how things will bear for the fledgling network.
So of course I enjoy a good rodeo. The Wild West Extravaganza in Del Mar didn’t offer any bullriding, barrel racing or other competition, but what it lacked in western athleticism it made up in corny yet heartfully sincere nostalgia. The historical past of the 19th century western United States may not have been so noble, but it has spawned a modern yearning for a time of chivalry, brotherhood andromance that can make even the most jaded urbanite get lost in tales of cowboys and Indians.
I covered a youth flag football tournament recently, and besides being creeped out by the absurd number of Yes on 8 signs posted in front of the Christian academy hosting the teams, the hot sun was putting the pressure on me to get the shots I needed and leave.
After three hours of distilling the drama [...]
I covered a PBR rodeo not too long ago in an arena that tested the limits of my camera and lens’ ability to deliver in low light. During the main event I saw that the official rodeo photographer had found his own solution with the biggest flash reflector bowl I had seen mounted on a [...]