Monday, August 3, 2015

Prescott Arizona National Cowboy Shootout


It is a re-enactment of the old cowboy days and when Prescott was a famous mining and cowboy town. In fact it is difficult to not feel that cowboy attitude when walking around town. There is a proud “can do by myself” attitude I suppose a cowboy had to have facing life alone with his horse.

Or am I adopting a romanticized Hollywood stereotype of the cowboy days?
No matter, the re-enactment in late July was the 10th annual Cowboy Shootout when actors wear authentic clothing and re-create moments from the good old dusty days!

There are many pictures of the shootout on the Web, yet I wanted to see if I can find that angle every photographer hopes for.

First, the ladies. As one has seen in cowboy movies, many women worked in the bars and Saloons. The attitude and clothing do represent these working women:


The next picture was a capture of shades and forms where B&W film excels. The shades on the woman's body are from her umbrella she was holding to protect herself from the high noon sun. And on that split second, these shades reminded me of a temporary tattooing. 



I wanted to capture a single frame where the old and new show a harmonious continuum. This was my attempt when I saw the program coordinator wearing a Walkie-Talkie (made in China?) next to his mother of pearl handle pistols.



How can there be a cowboy show without horses? But this one seemed more interested in shopping at a kiosk than staying in the scorching desert sun!  The lady passing behind the horse and the modern “Do Not Enter” sign give a distinct perspective.



Finally, a bit of movement and a departing shot. These boots did sound exquisitely memorable with the slow walking cadence of the cowboy.



August 3, 2015

© Vahé A. Kazandjian, 2015

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