Being a rodeo photographer for the PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) definitely has its perks.  My favorite perk is the behind the scenes access. Shooting the action is fun, but there is something about the process the rodeo athletes go through as they prepare for competition. Getting ready for the ride is different for every competitor. They all have their own ritual of how to get their mind and body right for the moment. In the case of bareback riding, it is that 8 seconds.

A couple of weeks ago, Joe and I were shooting the North Texas Fair and Rodeo. The bonus of having two shooters is that one can focus on the lifestyle, behind the scenes, while the other takes care of the action in the arena. The last performance of the PRCA rodeo was my turn behind the scenes. Standing behind the bucking shoots, I saw a bareback rider warming up and followed him through to the ride. Here is the photo story to give you a glimpse of what we get to see as the contestants get “Ready to Ride…”

Please follow and like us: