Barrel Rider
Barrel Racing is a timed rodeo event where the horse and rider have to complete a clover leaf pattern around three barrels in the center of the arena. It was originally a contest for women only first organized by the GRA (Girls Rodeo Association) in 1949. They have since changed their name to the WPRA (Woman’s Professional Rodeo Association). Men can compete but they are not eligible for the national champion ship National Finals Rodeo. You’ve come a long way baby.
This is a photograph that captures the excitement of the event at the peak of action. You will note that both of the horse’s hoofs are off the ground as it turns the barrel. The background is clean and yet has enough information to tell the story. The subject is placed off center giving them room to move into the scene.
Do they have to advertise on everything with a vertical surface?
Click on Image 
February 19th, 2008 at 9:25 am
Outstanding action image. What were your camera settings?
Does this event take place in California?
Great!
February 19th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Yes this event does take place in California, infact it’s our own Ventura County Fair. Rodeos are real fast action, I set my shutter speed at 1000 and cranked the ISO up enough so that my f/stops were in the 11 range. Fortunately it was a sunny day and I didn’t need and outrageous ISO setting. I was shooting a fixed 300 on a 30D body, and loved the results. Out of 40 or 50 fast action shots your lucky to get 5 or 6 that are really spot on. It’s fun exciting and well worth the time spent. I love the Ventura County Fair, great fun and photo opportunities.
Roy