Nikon D90, 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 lens @ 170mm, 1/80 sec @ f/5.6, ISO 640
Jackson, Wyoming and summer rodeos go hand-in-hand. But trying to capture action at night with a fairly slow 200mm zoom lens without a tripod was definitely a challenge. “Why no tripod?” you ask. Simple answer: I didn’t yet own one. So I cranked up the ISO, found a railing for support, and did my best.
And then this scene unfolded, quickly. I picked up my camera, zoomed in, held steady as best I could, and fired a burst of shots. And managed to catch this moment. I had never attended a rodeo before, so I have no idea how frequently something like this happens. I hope the answer is “infrequently.”
But there’s an incredibly happy ending to this story. Yes, the cowboy was taken off the grounds via ambulance. Yes, it was a moving sight to see the rodeo workers and fellow cowboys, hats removed, form a pathway to block him from view as he was moved. But it was a downright miracle to hear 45 minutes later that he had not sustained any injuries.
Crazy business, rodeos.
Photography 101 Assignment: Capture a fleeting moment and experiment with blur and movement.
Visual Venturing 
Great action shot. In this situation a monopod would work better than a tripod – more freedom to rotate the camera, but maintaining stability. Some tripods come with a detachable leg to act as a monopod.
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Thanks for this great tip. The tripod I now own does have the detachable leg – besides learning when it’s better to use it, I need to become efficient at converting it!
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It must have been fun to photograph and witness such an insane event! I’ve only seen it on TV, but it could have been fun to watch it live.
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There were so many fun events, including the sheep chase: all the kids in the stands come into the ring and chase a herd of sheep with the goal of getting the red ribbon attached to one of them. Hysterical (though the sheep probably didn’t enjoy it as much)!
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Stunning photo!
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It still takes my breath away to see this photo, Lucile. And I still can’t believe he wasn’t hurt!
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I can imagine, Stacy. Being there might have been much more exciting. Just looking at the photo makes my heart beat faster.
These guys are amazing!
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wow omg was what i said when i saw this, crickey x
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Crikey – now that’s a great word to use for this!
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hah i love crikey !
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Good capture. But yes, that happens quite a bit.
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Sounds like you’re familiar with the rodeo circuit, Mary. I guess I should think about it in terms of the extreme sport that it is!
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Wow Stacy. Risky business this one. Great moment!
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Can’t even imagine how frightening it must be to be the “man down,” Desleyjane. I think the most telling expression in the photo is the face of the cowboy in the back left!
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Ha, I had to go take another look. Yes, that sums it up!
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