Phoenix, AZ - American Indian Rodeo Events

 These are my four favorite events to photograph.

Saddle Bronc Riding - Similar to bareback riding with with a saddle.  Riders must stay on the bucking horse for 8 seconds, using a bronc rein (rope attached to the horse's halter) to control the ride.

Bull Riding - One of the most intense events, where riders myst stay on a bucking bull for 8 seconds, using just one hand on the bull rope.

Ladies Breakaway Roping - A timed event where a female rider ropes a calf and lets go, with the rope "breaking away" from the saddle horn once the calf is caught.

Ladies Barrel Race - Female riders race around three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern, aiming for the fasted time without knocking over a barrel.

Meet the Rodeo Zamboni: A Tractor’s Time to Shine Before the Dusty Action!

 The first subject of the day wasn’t what I expected when photographing a rodeo—it wasn’t a wild bull, a cowboy mid-ride, or even the crowd. No, my first shot of the American Indian rodeo was… a tractor. But not just any tractor! This massive machine rolled out like it owned the arena, prepping the dirt for the main event, much like a Zamboni does for an ice hockey game.

As I snapped photos of it chugging along, the driver gave a little wave, like he knew he was the unexpected star of the show. The sheer focus of this behemoth smoothing out the arena floor with its mechanical grace was mesmerizing. It had the aura of a backstage hero, quietly setting the stage for the high-energy drama about to unfold. I couldn’t help but chuckle, thinking, “Who needs a Zamboni when you’ve got a rodeo tractor?”

Stay tuned for my upcoming photo set—yes, even the mighty tractor has its moment of fame. You’ll want to see how this unsung hero transformed the dusty arena into the perfect playground for rodeo magic!

Rodeo Thrills and Dusty Spills: Capturing the Heart of the American Indian Rodeo at the Arizona State Fair!

 On Friday, October 4, 2024, I had the thrill of attending the Arizona State Fair at the Colosseum Fairgrounds to capture day one of the American Indian rodeo for a photography contest. The energy was electric, with rodeo riders showcasing incredible skills in bareback riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, and much more. The crowd cheered as these brave athletes demonstrated their talent and heritage, making the entire event pulse with excitement.

As I roamed the arena, my camera worked tirelessly, trying to capture the perfect moments—the wild bucking of a bronco, the grace of a rider in perfect sync with their horse, and the dust kicked up as a steer was roped in mid-run. There were endless opportunities to photograph the raw beauty of this cultural celebration, each snap telling its own powerful story.

It wasn’t just the rodeo that stole the show—the spectators, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, added bursts of color, energy, and pride to the scenes. The enthusiasm was contagious, and I can’t wait to share the best shots from the day with you!

Stay tuned for my upcoming blog post where I’ll showcase the stunning images from this adrenaline-packed rodeo. You won’t want to miss it!

Arizona - Two Guns Ghost Town

 Two Guns is a historic ghost town located in Arizona, USA, along the old Route 66. It was a popular stopping point for travelers along the famous highway during the mid-20th century. The town got its name from a trading post that used to sell firearms to the Apache and Navajo tribes. Two Guns is known for its natural beauty, including the nearby Canyon Diablo and Apache Death Cave. The town's popularity waned as the route of Route 66 changed, leading to its decline. Today, Two Guns is mostly in ruins, but some remnants of the old trading post and other structures can still be found. It has become a popular spot for tourists and history enthusiasts interested in exploring its past and enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Arizona - Twin Arrows Ghost Town

 Twin Arrows, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Arizona, is a captivating destination that beckons travelers with its rich history and natural beauty. This small community gained prominence due to its location along the historic Route 66, where the iconic Twin Arrows Trading Post once stood proudly, offering a glimpse into the past. The twin arrow-shaped pillars, which give the area its name, have become a symbol of nostalgia and a popular spot for capturing memories. As travelers journey through this historic route, Twin Arrows stands as a reminder of a bygone era, inviting them to pause and appreciate the stories that have woven themselves into the fabric of this charming Arizona locale.

One of the arrows has fallen so be sure to stop to capture your photograph of the remaining arrow.

Arizona - Route 66

The Arizona stretch of Route 66 unfolds as a journey through time and terrain. From the cactus-studded expanses of the Sonoran Desert to the rugged canyons of the Colorado Plateau, the landscape shifts like chapters in a novel. Along the iconic route, you'll encounter classic diners, vintage motels, and quirky roadside attractions, each a testament to the route's storied past. As a blogger and photographer, I capture the essence of this historic highway, where the asphalt weaves through red-rock landscapes and sunsets paint the sky in hues only Arizona can offer.

These are some of the iconic sites  I didn’t visit all of them and plan to take another trip to complete the list  

1. **Wigwam Motel (Holbrook):** Sleep in concrete tepees reminiscent of a bygone era.

2. **Petrified Forest National Park:** Marvel at ancient petrified wood and vibrant painted desert landscapes.

3. **Winslow "Standin' on the Corner":** Strike a pose at the famous corner commemorated by the Eagles' song.

4. **Meteor Crater Natural Landmark:** Witness the impact site of a meteorite that hit Earth around 50,000 years ago.

5. **Jack Rabbit Trading Post (Joseph City):** Iconic stop with the "Here It Is" sign beckoning travelers.

6. **Twin Arrows Trading Post:** Discover the striking twin arrows that stand as a Route 66 relic.

7. **Route 66 Museum (Kingman):** Immerse yourself in the history of the Mother Road.

8. **Oatman:** Encounter wild burros and experience a taste of the Old West in this charming ghost town.

9. **El Trovatore Motel (Kingman):** Admire the vintage neon signs of this historic Route 66 motel.

10. **Seligman:** Step into a living museum of Route 66 nostalgia with classic diners and quirky shops.