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 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 [...]