I just wrapped up editing photos from the Midwest Youth Rodeo Association yesterday—just in time for the final rodeo happening this weekend in Cloverdale, IN! While nothing too wild happened at this event, it was still a productive and rewarding experience behind the lens.


As a Midwest rodeo photographer, not every event needs to be packed with chaos to be successful. This one gave me the opportunity to focus on something just as important: consistency and efficiency in post-production.

A young sheep rider participates in mutton busting at a rodeo event while spectators watch from the bleachers.
A rodeo rider competes on a palomino horse in an indoor arena during a barrel racing event.
A Border Collie dog runs through an agility course tunnel during a competition event.
A sequence of action shots showing a cowboy competing in a barrel racing event at a rodeo arena.
A dark cowboy hat sits on a wooden display shelf in a dimly lit retail store.
Young cowboy in blue western attire practices roping skills in a dusty rodeo arena.

Rodeo Winter Mini Session


Something a little different at this rodeo was a mini session for an 8th grader who needed a few quick portraits for his yearbook. Shooting portraits at a rodeo—especially in winter—comes with its own challenges. The biggest one? Bright snow and harsh sunlight. The sun was intense, and while neither of us were complaining about the beautiful weather, it definitely made things tricky. Snow reflects light, which can: Cause harsh shadows, Create blown-out highlights, and Make subjects squint.


We tested several different spots around the grounds before finally settling into some shaded areas. Once we found open shade, everything came together. No more squinting, softer light on his face, and a much more natural look overall.


It was a quick session, but a great reminder that sometimes the best solution is simply finding better light.

Young person in western attire with cowboy hat and patterned shirt poses against rustic wall.
A person walks through a snowy winter forest landscape with bare trees and deep snow covering the ground.
A cowboy in western attire poses together in a snowy winter setting with mountains in the background.
A snowy winter landscape with evergreen trees and mountains in the background during golden hour lighting.
A person in a cowboy hat and scarf leans against a white fence in a snowy winter landscape.
A person in a black cowboy hat and blue patterned button-down shirt poses against a wall.