Photo Series: Bull Rider

When witnessing a "moment" through the viewfinder all you can do is keep shooting.  Emotion and shock are for afterwards.  Focus on the task at hand and you'll get the shot(s).  As I shot this series I couldn't help but think about the photojournalists I look up to and how they photograph what they do. 

Note: The rodeo clown ended up saving the rider from further injury by sitting on the bull's head, as seen in the last photo.  After the bull was corralled the rider got up seemingly unharmed.  

Fourth of July, Independence Day

There is something about the Fourth of July that makes me so happy.  Maybe it's that the average citizen allows themselves to make their driveway a complete blast zone, or that neighborhood streets are lined with American flags.  People are out and about and it's officially summer time.  I'll be honest, there have been things that are embarrassing about this country, but when you get past all that is shameful you get the true America most of us hold dear in our hearts.  The America men and women have fought and died for, and not just on the battlefield.  The America that gets up after being knocked down.  The America that lends a hand to a struggling neighbor.  Washington may be the face of America, but the people are it's soul.  It's the everyday people who get up, work hard, and take care of the people around them.  Individuals make America great and when the true hard working Americans come together great things can happen.  That is what July 4th is all about.  The reminder.

Saddleback rider takes control of his horse at the Independence Day Celebration at Oakley Rodeo.  July 2, 2011.

Fireworks over the Utah State Capitol.  July 4, 2011.