It is impossible (for me, anyway) to describe the incredible athleticism that is on display at the rodeo: human, bovine and equine.
I know there are some hard hits in this video and I don't mean to show anyone at their worst or sensationalize the falls. Showing the toughness of the riders is what I hope to convey. This stuff is no joke - and when you're lucky enough to get close to action, you feel the power, the danger, the respect. It's truly like nothing else I've ever experienced and my love for the people who do this is at times overwhelming.
As I was only able to attend one night of the 2023 Paulding Pro Rodeo, I've created something a little different with my footage. This song has always been in my playlist of possible backing tracks but it took me until now to figure out how to use it in way that helped me communicate what I feel when I'm filming these events.
As always, many thanks to all the cowboys, cowgirls, stock supply workers, contract acts, paramedics, law enforcement officers, and anyone else I've forgotten who make these events happen - you all mean the world to me.
Southern Rodeo Company: www.southernro...
For this event, I'm dug in as low as possible using an Innorel carbon fiber tripod with a 75mm bowl. I'm shooting through the lowest divider on the arena panels.
I shot this event with a single Sony A7IV body equipped with a Sony 70-200 f/2.8 (v.1) lens and Atomos Ninja V monitor. Footage is 10 bit 4:2:2 at 60fps.
If you have any questions about my approach to shooting rodeo, or any suggestions on ways I can do a better job, please comment below. Thanks for watching!
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