Wyoming Army ROTC Field Training Exercise: A Father's Reflection on Leadership and Legacy
In April 2025, I made a 2,400-mile round-trip drive from Sacramento to Laramie, Wyoming, stopping in Guernsey for a weekend I’ll never forget. I was there to spend a few days with my son Ryan, a senior in the University of Wyoming’s Army ROTC program, as he and his fellow seniors ran their culminating training event—the Joint Field Training Exercise (JFTX).
A Father’s Reflection on Leadership, Legacy, and the Bright Future of the U.S. Army
In April 2025, I made a 2,400-mile round-trip drive from Sacramento to Laramie, Wyoming, stopping in Guernsey for a weekend I’ll never forget. I was there to spend a few days with my son Ryan, a senior in the University of Wyoming’s Army ROTC program, as he and his fellow seniors ran their culminating training event—the Joint Field Training Exercise (JFTX). What made it so significant wasn’t just that it marked the end of their time as cadets, but that they were fully responsible for planning, resourcing, and executing the entire training operation. This wasn’t a scripted drill handed down from above—it was a live, student-led operation, built from the ground up by the people running it.
But what I witnessed over those four days was much more than a personal milestone. It was a powerful glimpse into the next generation of Army officers, and it left me not only proud as a father but hopeful as an American.
The Road to Guernsey
Long before I arrived at Camp Guernsey, I had already begun to feel the weight of what this trip meant. The drive out took me through snow-dusted mountains, desolate stretches of Nevada desert, and into the red cliffs and open skies of Utah and Wyoming. Every turn seemed to echo the history of this country—from the Oregon Trail ruts near Guernsey to the sandstone cliffs of Echo Canyon that once guided westward-bound settlers. It felt right that something so timeless and rooted would be the setting for a new chapter in Ryan’s life.
Camp Guernsey: Training Ground for Future Leaders
Camp Guernsey Joint Training Center is an expansive, 78,000-acre facility with multiple training zones: live-fire artillery ranges, land navigation courses, obstacle fields, and an airfield capable of handling C-17s. It’s the kind of place designed to push cadets past their limits—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
The Field Training Exercise Ryan participated in is a long-standing joint event between the University of Wyoming and Colorado State University. While this annual event is unique in its scale and collaboration, it’s important to understand that every ROTC program nationwide is designed to be cadet-led. Events like this one are not just opportunities for cadets to train—they are built, resourced, and executed by the seniors themselves.
Ryan and his peers spent countless hours leading up to this weekend learning and applying concepts like training management, prioritizing objectives, and planning for short-term, mid-term, and long-term training goals. This JFTX wasn’t just a culminating experience for the underclassmen—it was the senior cadets’ capstone assignment. And they did an outstanding job from start to finish.
On arrival, cadets were flown in by UH-60 Blackhawks, a first for the event thanks to the Wyoming National Guard. From there, the intensity never let up. Gear was inspected, platoons were formed, and a Tactical Operations Center (TOC) was established. Over the next three days, cadets rotated through five missions, each one testing leadership, teamwork, and decision-making. Juniors were placed in rotating leadership roles—squad leader, platoon sergeant, platoon leader—and evaluated based on the Army Leadership Requirements Model.
At one point, temperatures surged to 85 degrees—a rare spring spike that prompted the seniors and cadre to proactively adjust the training plan to mitigate risk. I watched as they issued jerry cans full of Gatorade and made other real-time decisions to keep the cadets hydrated and safe. While I initially thought I was witnessing heat-related injuries, I later learned the actual incidents included a hip injury and four knee-related injuries—each managed quickly and professionally by the team on site.
The final challenge was land navigation, a course designed by Ryan and CDT McDonald. Cadets had five hours to locate four points during the day, and four hours at night to find three more. No GPS. Just a compass, a map, a pace count, and an unwavering focus. It was physically grueling and mentally demanding—by design.
Watching My Son in His Element
Seeing Ryan in this setting, I was moved in a way I didn’t expect. He stood tall, clear-headed, and in control. Confident, but never commanding attention for the sake of it. One particular moment stays with me: a younger cadet returned to the TOC frustrated after failing to find a single land nav point. I watched Ryan calmly pull them aside, speak to them quietly, and help them regroup. It turned out the cadet’s compass had been miscalibrated—an important lesson in verifying your gear—but what stood out wasn’t the technical correction. It was the way Ryan led with empathy, not ego.
I’ve seen him on the football field, in the gym, at family dinners. But here? I saw him as the man he’s become. That kind of quiet, steady leadership doesn’t show up overnight. It’s built. And it’s earned.
Mentoring the Next Shooter
Throughout the weekend, I had a shadow of my own—Louis, the battalion’s Public Affairs Officer (PAO). He was assigned to stay with me and soak up whatever he could. And he did. I showed him how to work with off-camera flash, use natural light to shape emotion, and edit creatively using just an iPhone and the Tintype app. The cadets were thrilled with the portraits we made—images that made them feel strong, proud, and seen. And Louis? He got inspired. I saw it happen in real time.
I brought my Nikon Z9 with a 70–200mm lens and my Z8 with a 24–70mm. Both were set to medium RAW, auto ISO, and daylight white balance. I bracketed exposures for group shots and worked quickly under unpredictable conditions. Time was tight. Lighting changed by the minute. But like everything else that weekend, the challenge was part of the reward.
Leadership That Leaves an Impact
One of the most meaningful parts of the weekend was the time I spent riding to and from the site with Lieutenant Colonel Paul W. Hanson, the Professor of Military Science at the University of Wyoming. LTC Hanson oversees the entire ROTC capstone program—the training, the commissioning, the academic interface with the university.
He’s also a seasoned Army officer, with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan and experience advising at the Pentagon. But more than his credentials, what struck me was his character. He spoke with clarity, conviction, and genuine care for these cadets. He sees the mission behind the mission: not just to prepare soldiers, but to build leaders of integrity and resilience.
He told me that having me there for the FTX was the best decision he made this year. That meant a lot. And I believe he meant it.
A Personal Testament
Photography has never been an easy road. The highs are incredible. The lows can be brutal. But it’s given me the one thing I value most—presence. I’ve coached my kids, cheered for them, mentored them, and stood beside them with a camera in hand. And because of the life I chose, I was able to be here—to watch my son step fully into the role he’s been working toward, and to see with my own eyes how ready he is.
I’ve always tried to stay involved in my kids’ lives without becoming overbearing. My wife worried early on that, as a former athlete, I’d bring that same intensity into fatherhood. Maybe she wasn’t wrong to worry. But I’ve done my best to walk that line—to support, not push; to guide, not pressure.
This weekend confirmed I did something right.
The Future is Bright
As I made the long drive back to Sacramento—1,050 miles of empty road and full reflection—I couldn’t help but feel something deeper than pride. I felt hope.
These cadets—their dedication, their adaptability, their leadership under pressure—represent everything we want to see in the future of the Army. And under the guidance of leaders like LTC Hanson, they’re being shaped the right way.
If you’re wondering what kind of young people are preparing to lead this country, or what kind of program is molding them, I’d encourage you to look at the University of Wyoming’s Cowboy Battalion. What they’re doing isn’t just a training exercise. It’s legacy work. And I’m honored to have witnessed it.
Why I Don’t Believe in the “Ultimate Posing Guide”
Forget the “Ultimate Posing Guide.” True posing is about authenticity, not memorization. In this post, I break down how I approach posing as a conversation—not a command—and why the most natural movements often lead to the strongest images. Whether you’re a photographer or someone who hates being in front of the camera, there’s something here for you.
And why your best pose might already be in you.
I keep seeing ads and social posts promoting the Ultimate Posing Guide—as if there’s some perfect list of positions that work for everyone. But here’s the truth I’ve learned over the years: there’s no such thing.
Sure, I have a few base poses that tend to work for most people, but trying to make someone copy a pose they physically can’t do—or that just doesn’t feel natural—never works. You can see it in the photo. And worse, you can feel it.
Authenticity Over Imitation
What actually works is watching people. I pay attention to how someone naturally stands, how they move, how they interact. I take cues from that and build from there. That approach leads to images that feel real, not staged. It works across the board—whether we’re shooting fashion or portraits or branding.
Hands Matter More Than You Think
One thing I talk about often is what to do with your hands. They matter—a lot. Your hands need to have intent. They shouldn’t be doing something random, and they shouldn’t be in conflict with your facial expression.
I’ve seen plenty of technically strong portraits where the hands feel stiff or disconnected. The subject looks powerful in the face, but the hands are saying something else. People might not notice it consciously, but they feel it. And that disconnection can throw off the entire image.
That said, there are times when I’ll intentionally create tension by having the hands and face tell different stories—but that’s a deliberate creative decision, not a default.
Posing Is a Conversation, Not a Command
One of the most valuable shifts in my approach over the years has been treating posing like a dialogue. When I work with someone, we often spend the first 20–30 minutes just talking about how they move, how they want to come across, and what feels comfortable.
I might shoot a few frames during that time—not to create finished images, but to illustrate what we’re talking about. Once we get aligned, the rest of the shoot flows naturally. It’s smoother, more comfortable, and ultimately, more authentic.
Most people don’t know their angles—and why would they? It’s my job to help discover what works, together.
Want to see this in action?
I’ll be sharing a few real-world examples and behind-the-scenes clips soon—because good posing isn’t about hitting the mark, it’s about finding the moment.
Sacramento Fashion Week 2025 – A Photographer’s Perspective
Fashion Week always brings a mix of creativity, spontaneity, and technical challenges. This year at Sacramento Fashion Week, held at the Crocker Art Museum, I set out with a clear vision of how I wanted to capture the event. Over two nights, I experimented with lens choices, lighting techniques, and visual storytelling,
Fashion Week always brings a mix of creativity, spontaneity, and technical challenges. This year at Sacramento Fashion Week, held at the Crocker Art Museum, I set out with a clear vision of how I wanted to capture the event. Over two nights, I experimented with lens choices, lighting techniques, and visual storytelling, narrowing down my final selections to 46 images that best represented my approach.
Night 1 – Up Close & Personal with a 20mm Lens
For the first night, I committed to using a 20mm fixed lens, which forced me to get close and fully engage with my subjects. A wide-angle lens like this is powerful when used up close—it creates intimacy and pulls the viewer right into the scene. When shot from a distance, it tends to lose impact unless you’re capturing an entire environment.
I also experimented with a strobe positioned outside the main window to illuminate the runway. The idea was to create dramatic backlighting for the models as they walked. While I liked some of the results, I hadn’t anticipated the subtle patterned texture on the museum’s windows. This caused the light to diffuse more than expected, softening its impact. That’s part of the creative process—trying new things, adapting, and learning from the results.
Night 2 – Flexibility with a 24-70mm Lens & On-Camera Flash
For the second night, I switched things up and shot with my 24-70mm lens, staying mostly at the 24mm end. This gave me more flexibility to react to the fast-paced environment while still keeping the immersive feel I wanted.
I also mounted my flash onto a strobe frame, keeping it as close to the lens center as possible when shooting vertically. This technique helps reduce shadows, creating a distinct, high-energy look. The bright, direct light adds an editorial feel that works well in a fast-moving setting like a fashion event.
Finding the Right Moments
While covering events like this, I always seek out candid, organic moments rather than posed shots. If someone naturally strikes a look when I raise my camera, I’ll take the shot, but the most interesting images often come from unexpected interactions.
For example, I captured a few moments when models were eating sour candy backstage—it was a break from the polished, high-fashion aesthetic, showing their personalities in a fun way. Encouraging these unscripted moments adds layers to the story of the event.
Post-Processing & Creating a Cohesive Style
Once the event was over, I spent a few days refining my edit, looking for a consistent visual style that tied both nights together. My final adjustments included:
• Opening up the exposure for a brighter, more open feel.
• Dramatically lowering contrast to create a soft, balanced look.
• Dropping highlights & whites while lifting shadows & blacks to retain detail.
• Shifting the white balance cooler for a sleek, editorial feel.
• Fine-tuning colors in Lightroom’s color mixer to match the aesthetic I envisioned.
Applying this look across all images helped ensure the series felt cohesive and intentional.
Final Thoughts
Shooting Sacramento Fashion Week was a fantastic creative challenge. With so much visual energy—bold designs, vibrant colors, and stunning models—it was the perfect playground for experimenting with different techniques.
I’ve learned over time to shoot for myself first—to create images that I find visually compelling rather than worrying about outside opinions. In this case, there wasn’t a single “client,” just a shared goal of representing the event well. That gave me the freedom to pursue the angles, subjects, and style that felt right.
It also reinforced something I’ve long believed: warming up visually before shooting makes a huge difference. Before each evening, I looked at images in a style I wanted to emulate, sometimes building a reference board on Pinterest to set the tone. Just like an athlete warms up before a game, priming your visual brain before a shoot helps you get into a creative rhythm faster.
I’ll be posting my final images in a series of Instagram posts, so keep an eye out! If you see yourself or know the designers, models, or hair & makeup artists, feel free to tag them.
📸 Follow along on Instagram: @englephoto_in
What’s your approach to shooting events like this? Drop a comment, and let’s talk about photography!
Why I Use What I Use: A Thoughtful Approach to Photography Gear
When I first started in photography, I’ll admit—I had my fair share of “gear envy.” The allure of shiny new equipment was hard to resist, and I made plenty of purchases that didn’t add much value to my work. Over time, I realized that having the right tools matters far more than having all the tools.
When I first started in photography, I’ll admit—I had my fair share of “gear envy.” The allure of shiny new equipment was hard to resist, and I made plenty of purchases that didn’t add much value to my work. Over time, I realized that having the right tools matters far more than having all the tools.
Today, every piece of gear in my bag serves a specific purpose. If I upgrade, it’s because the new item brings a quantum leap—whether in the quality of what I deliver or the efficiency of my process. Otherwise, I stick with what works until it wears out. This philosophy keeps me focused on what’s important: producing exceptional results for my clients.
What follows is a breakdown of the tools I rely on most, along with the reasons they’ve earned a place in my kit.
Photo Credit: John Lawson
Lighting & Power
Lighting is critical in photography, and for my needs, the Godox AD600 lights strike the perfect balance of performance and cost. After my trusty Phottix strobes gave out, these became my go-to option. To power up on location, I keep the EcoFlow River portable power station handy. It’s saved countless shoots where access to outlets was limited.
When it comes to shaping light, I exclusively use Phottix modifiers. They’re incredibly versatile, durable, and feature innovative designs that make them a joy to work with. Whether I need soft, even lighting for portraits or more dramatic directional light for commercial projects, Phottix modifiers always deliver. They’re an essential part of my kit, even if they didn’t make it into the photo.
Cameras & Lenses
At the heart of my gear are my Nikon Z9 and Z8 cameras. The Z9 is my workhorse, responsive and robust, while the lighter Z8 is a great backup (and increasingly a favorite). For studio work, I turn to the Fujifilm GFX 50 II medium-format camera, which delivers exceptional detail and depth.
My Nikon lens kit includes the versatile 24-70mm, the dependable 70-200mm, and the portrait-perfect 85mm. For creative work, I still love my Sigma 35mm f/1.4, even though it requires an adapter. Each of these lenses plays a key role in my workflow.
Tech & Tools
Incorporating technology has been a game-changer for client interaction and efficiency. My iPad Pro connects directly to my cameras for real-time proofing, saving time and ensuring clients get exactly what they want. The DJI Mic 2 makes audio for social media videos seamless, and my Insta360 cameras capture behind-the-scenes content that adds value to my projects.
I also rely on smaller essentials like my Sekonic light meter, color checker, and high-speed blower—tools that might seem minor but can make a big difference in the final product.
My Chubby cables are another small but vital addition. These high-speed, durable cables keep my gear connected and charged, and their extra length makes them incredibly versatile for on-location work.
For quick recharges, I keep an Anker portable battery in my kit. It’s compact, reliable, and perfect for topping up smaller devices like my phone or camera accessories during a shoot.
Support & Efficiency
Good support gear is just as important as cameras and lenses. My Benro tripod is lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust on the fly. On larger sets, walkie-talkies keep communication clear and efficient. My trusty Mavic 2 drone adds a dynamic perspective to certain shoots, whether for events or creative commercial work.
Final Thoughts
This gear isn’t about showing off—it’s about delivering quality and consistency to my clients. Over the years, I’ve moved away from chasing the latest gadgets and focused on tools that genuinely improve my work. If it doesn’t help me create better images or save time, it doesn’t make the cut.
Whether you’re a photographer or in another field, I hope this post inspires you to think critically about the tools you rely on. It’s not about having the most—it’s about having what works. What’s in your toolbox? I’d love to hear about the tools that help you do your best work—drop a comment below!
The Unyielding Pursuit of Excellence in Photography: A Professional's Reflection
In the ever-evolving world of photography, the landscape is littered with the echoes of shutter clicks from those who've come and gone. The journey through the lens is challenging and fraught with competition and the constant demand for innovation and excellence. Over my years in the photography community, I've witnessed many talented individuals enter the fray with hopes high and dreams vast. Yet, many find themselves unable to weather the storm of the industry, struggling to secure consistent commercial clients.
In the ever-evolving world of photography, the landscape is littered with the echoes of shutter clicks from those who've come and gone. The journey through the lens is challenging and fraught with competition and the constant demand for innovation and excellence. Over my years in the photography community, I've witnessed many talented individuals enter the fray with hopes high and dreams vast. Yet, many find themselves unable to weather the storm of the industry, struggling to secure consistent commercial clients. Reflecting on this phenomenon, I've realized a critical element that often dictates the difference between fleeting presence and enduring success: the rigorous self-critique of one's work.
The Critical Eye
In photography, as in all art forms, being your harshest critic is not a mere suggestion—it's a necessity. The journey of a photograph from a mere click to a captivating image presented to the world is paved with decisions. What many emerging photographers tend to overlook is the importance of discerning feedback. The industry is rife with well-meaning compliments that, while encouraging, do little to push one's boundaries or challenge one's creative limits. True growth emerges from the crucible of constructive criticism, often from those with a qualified eye, those who can see beyond the surface and challenge you to dig deeper into your creative well.
Quality Over Quantity
The mantra of showing the world only your best cannot be overstated. Establishing a personal benchmark of quality that you vow never to dip below ensures that your portfolio reflects your skill and your unwavering commitment to excellence. This discipline in selectivity sharpens your critical eye and builds a brand reputation that clients can trust for consistency and quality. It's about understanding that every piece you share is a testament to your standards and should be something that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Measuring Against the Greats
One of the most humbling yet inspiring practices is measuring your work against the greats in the field. This doesn't mean falling into the trap of comparison but rather using their achievements as a beacon to guide your growth. It's about recognizing the gap between where you are and where you aspire to be—not as a discouragement but as a challenge to push further, innovate, and refine your vision.
The Journey Is the Destination
The path to achieving and surpassing your goals in photography is never-ending. Every milestone reached reveals a new landscape of possibilities and challenges. This relentless pursuit keeps the passion alive, driving us to explore new techniques, capture life from uncharted perspectives, and tell stories that resonate on a universal level.
Final Thoughts
For those of us dedicated to photography, the journey is both our curse and our blessing. It's a field where the only constant is change, and excellence is not a milestone but a continuous pursuit. As I reflect on my journey and the evolution of my work, I'm reminded that the true essence of photography lies in the relentless pursuit of capturing not just images but emotions, moments, and the indescribable beauty of the world around us. It's a reminder that in photography, as in life, pursuing excellence is an unending journey that demands our best at every click.
Embracing Faith and Photography: Documenting the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage
The Decision to Volunteer
When the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage came up, it piqued my interest as a photographer and someone on a faith journey. I reached out to the organizers, and they were incredibly receptive. Adjusting my schedule to volunteer was a joy, as it allowed me to witness the dedication and faith of the pilgrims firsthand.
A Journey of Faith
Fr. Luke Joseph Leighton
Almost a year ago, I began exploring my faith more deeply. While my wife and family have always been devout Catholics, this was the first time I truly engaged with it. This new awareness led me to pay closer attention to events like the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, seeing it as more than a photographic subject.
The Decision to Volunteer
When the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage came up, it piqued my interest as a photographer and someone on a faith journey. I reached out to the organizers, and they were incredibly receptive. Adjusting my schedule to volunteer was a joy, as it allowed me to witness the dedication and faith of the pilgrims firsthand.
The Process and Experience
The pilgrimage was a testament to faith and commitment, requiring extensive planning and effort. Witnessing the joy among the pilgrims and those joining in was inspiring. However, as a photographer, I had to maintain a certain detachment. While moments of reverence called for kneeling in church, I had to remain standing, ready to capture the perfect shot.
The Importance of Creative Engagement
As a photographer and creative, diving into subjects without financial gain is crucial. Often, these projects cost me money because I must forgo other work, but they fulfill me creatively and spiritually. This experience with the pilgrimage has not only deepened my faith but also significantly improved my craft. Engaging with meaningful subjects enhances my technical skills and mental approach, enriching my creative process.
Technical Aspects and Personal Touch
Bishop Jaime Soto
The pilgrimage culminated in Lake Tahoe, where my wife joined me. Her presence was invaluable, not just emotionally but also technically. She handheld a small strobe opposite the camera, providing an excellent edge light and, in one instance, creating a dramatic reflection of the monstrance into the bishop’s face. This collaboration added depth to the visual storytelling and made the experience even more special.
Conclusion
From left to right: Father Luke Leighton, Me, Madison Michel, Jack Krebs, Jimmy Velasco, Dereck Delgado, Chas East, Chima Adiole, Jaella Mac Au, Brother Matthew Solanus, Patrick Fayad.
Documenting the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage was a unique blend of faith and photography. With 1317 images captured, I look forward to sharing this visual narrative, reflecting the spiritual journey and the technical artistry involved. Stay tuned for more as I explore and document these meaningful moments.
Really enjoyed my time with Fr. Luke Joseph Leighton
Legacy in Focus: Capturing the Spirit of The Lonesome E Cattle Company
Documentary photography from The Lonesome E Cattle Company in Madera County, California — capturing the legacy of Black cowboy culture and the Campbell family's multigenerational ranch heritage.
In the rolling foothills of Eastern Madera County, where the legacy of Edward E. Campbell, Sr. intertwines with the land, the spirit of The Lazy E Ranch—now known as The Lonesome E Cattle Company—continues to thrive. This past weekend, I had the distinct honor of capturing a living tapestry of this legacy: a Black cowboy round-up that was as much about community as it was about cattle—a gathering that welcomed all, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Rooted in History: The Journey from Texas to California
The Campbell family's story is deeply woven into the broader narrative of African American Black Cowboys who helped settle the Western frontier. The lineage of the Campbell family traces back to Clem Campbell Sr., born in 1868. A rancher in Cuero, Texas, he and his father, Jack Campbell, played a part in the tales of the Old West, aiding outlaws Frank & Jessie James. In exchange for shelter under the floorboards of their modest shacks, the James brothers would rustle cattle to feed the residents of a newly freed slave community. This spirit of resourcefulness and resilience has echoed through generations and brought the family to the present-day Lonesome E Ranch, nestled in the heart of Raymond, California.
A Heritage Reclaimed and Revered
The Lonesome E Cattle Company is more than a place; it's a living testament to the Campbell family's dedication and dreams. Led by Edward E. Campbell, Jr., affectionately known as Beau, and his wife Pamela, the family upholds a legacy that extends far beyond the ranching operations started by his father. It's a testament to the enduring power of a vision, passed down through generations like a cherished Stetson hat, fitting each new wearer just as it did the last.
The Round-Up: A Testament to Tradition
The round-up I witnessed was a vibrant tapestry of camaraderie, tradition, and familial pride. Cowboys and cowgirls gathered not driven by financial gain but by a deep love for their heritage and each other. The scene echoed the historic gatherings of Edward Sr.'s time, filled with the aroma of barbecue, the clatter of dominoes, and the thud of horseshoes—timeless summer traditions now rekindled by the current generation.
In the Dust and Dawn: Moments Made Immortal
As the morning light spilled over the hills, the present-day cowboys, with ropes and reins in hand, honored their heritage with every calf roped and every brand sizzled into the hide. The physicality of the round-up was undeniable—a dance of grit and grace, a choreography perfected by the calloused hands of experience and the eager grips of youth learning the ropes.
Under the Same Skies: A Family's Heartbeat
Through my viewfinder, the heartbeat of the Campbell family was unmistakable. The ranch resonated with the sounds of joy, the shared respect for the livestock, and the collective remembrance of a family's journey from the pastures of Texas to the rolling hills of California.
Conclusion: The Future Framed by the Past
As I ready to share this collection of images, I'm reminded that The Lonesome E Cattle Company is more than a ranch; it is a sanctuary where past, present, and future are indelibly inked into the landscape. This round-up was a celebration of a way of life, a family heritage that Beau and Pamela Campbell intend to preserve and share through annual round-ups and trail rides—inviting everyone to partake in the celebration of heritage and local history.
"West of Yellowstone, South of Yosemite," the Lonesome E Ranch stands as a beacon of history, where redwoods dedicated to the memory of family members guard the stories and spirits that will continue to roam these lands. Join us as we honor the past and embrace the future, preserving and cherishing the legacy of The Lonesome E Cattle Company for generations to come.
Stay tuned for the visual chronicle of this remarkable day not just the enduring legacy of The Lonesome E Cattle Company but also the unbreakable bonds of the family it continues to foster.
For those interested in the technical side of round-up photography, my trusty Nikon Z9 was at the heart of it all, paired with two versatile lenses: the 24-70mm for wider scenes and rapid movements and the 70-200mm for those tight, close-up shots of the action. To ensure the cowboys and cowgirls were lit perfectly, I utilized the reliable Godox AD600 Pro strobe with a Phottix 7-inch dish that provided just the right amount of fill light. All of this was supported, quite literally, by the robust Benro Mammoth TMTH34C Carbon Fiber Tripod, topped with a Benro GX25 Lowprofile Ballhead for smooth adjustments and stability. This gear setup was instrumental in capturing the dynamic essence of the rodeo, freezing each moment with clarity and precision.