Black & White Cowboy Prints – Western Fine Art Photography of the American West

Black and White Cowboy Photography Prints

I’ve had the honor of photographing cowboys all over the American West for years, and it’s black and white images that always feel the most honest. Stripped of color, the grit of leather, the lines on a weathered face, and the sweep of open land all take on a timeless quality that will make you question what year the photographs was made.

These prints are not posed studio portraits or actors in costume. They are photographs of real working cowboys, men and women whose days begin before sunrise and end long after the last horse is put away. In monochrome, their faces, hands, and surroundings carry the weight of honesty that color can sometimes soften.

Western Fine Art Prints for Collectors and Interiors

Black & white cowboy prints belong to a tradition that feels both timeless and modern. In a home, they bring a quiet strength to the walls. In an office or ranch house, they connect the space to the land and the people who work it.

The prints show everything from weathered saddles to cowboys moving cattle across wide pastures, from the silence of a rider waiting at dawn to the chaos of dust clouds rising during a roundup. Each photograph is a reminder that the West is not an idea for a movie or tv show—it’s alive, and it’s hard work.

Cowboys in the American West — Monochrome Stories

Every photograph in this series tells a story. A rope thrown clean in the middle of a corral. A cowboy leaning against a fence, hat brim bent from years of wear. Horses running in from pasture, their breath visible in the morning cold.

These aren’t fleeting moments staged for a lens. They’re glimpses into daily life, captured with respect for tradition and admiration for the people who carry it forward. Black and white photography magnifies that reality—highlighting texture, dust, leather, and skin with a stark beauty that doesn’t fade.

Available Cowboy Wall Art Prints

These black and white cowboy photographs are available as fine art prints, crafted with the same care as the images themselves. Whether framed on a wall or displayed in a collection, they serve as lasting pieces of the American West.

For those who admire the grit, grace, and authenticity of cowboy life, these prints offer a timeless way to bring that spirit into your own space.

Real cowboys. Real work. Photographed in black and white and printed for those who value the strength and tradition of the West. Click the button below to shop my limited edition cowboy prints.

Black and white cowboy photography prints for sale

Western Wall Art - Black and White

Black and white wild horse wall art

Black and white western saddle print

Authentic Western Brand Photography in Texas with Bucking Bull Trainer Dennis Davis

Behind the Lens of a Commercial Western Photoshoot in Texas

When Boot Barn called me to photograph a project with Dennis Davis, a bucking bull trainer in Texas, I knew it was going to be one of those shoots where everything lined up — the subject, the setting, and the story.

Dennis lives and breathes the Western lifestyle. His world is built around the kind of grit and determination that can’t be staged. That’s why people like Dana White trust him with their bulls, and that’s the kind of authenticity brands like Boot Barn want in their photography. It’s also the kind of work I love to produce.

From a production standpoint, shoots like this are where preparation meets adaptability. Bulls don’t wait for lighting setups, and Dennis can’t hit pause so we can get the perfect angle. The key is building trust, staying mobile, and knowing when to step in and when to step back. Every shot has to feel as natural as the dust and sweat in the air. So my tactic is to just be a fly on the wall, with the confidence that all my experience leads me to the right wall at the right time.

Working with Boot Barn meant balancing their brand vision with the reality of Dennis’ day-to-day routine that would both tell a story and sell clothes. We mapped out a shot list, but the best images came from leaning into what was happening in the moment: Dennis working a bull through the chute, quiet pauses between runs, the weathered textures of the arena, and of course action photos of the riders in action. Those unscripted moments are what connect an audience to a brand. For brands, that’s the value of hiring a photographer who has spent years documenting real Western culture. It’s not just about sharp images — it’s about telling stories that feel lived-in and true, while still delivering the polished assets a campaign demands.

Why Authenticity Matters for Brand Photography

Audiences are sharp. They can spot staged from a mile away, especially in the Western world. Photographing someone like Dennis Davis for Boot Barn wasn’t about staging cowboys and bulls — it was about showing the raw power and quiet pride of the work as it really happens. That kind of authenticity is what gives a brand’s imagery staying power.

What Brands Can Expect Working With Me

Every brand has its own story. My job is to translate that story into imagery that feels both true and visually striking. On shoots like this, that means:

• Clear communication before the shoot to align on goals.

• Flexibility on location to work with real-world conditions.

• An eye for the unexpected that creates the strongest images.

• Fun - if we can’t have fun on a photoshoot while still getting the job done, then you’re in the wrong business.

• Deliverables ready for campaigns across print, web, and social.

That’s the same approach I bring whether it’s a shoot for Boot Barn, a fitness campaign, or photographing working cowboys in the middle of Nevada. So if your brand is looking for imagery that feels as real as the people wearing your gear, I’d love to help bring that story to life -rob@robhammerphotography.com

To view the short documentary Boot Barn made about Dennis Davis go HERE.

To view more of my Western cowboy photography go HERE.

Portrait of professional bucking bull trainer Dennis Davis

Dennis Davis getting into his big rig truck used for hauling bulls

Dennis Davis unloads a bucking bull from a trailer

Jacob Law - bull rider

Close-up photograph of a bull riders belt buckle

Gritty photograph of a bull ride in Texas

Dramatic portrait of a bull rider

Quiet moment of contemplation before riding a bull

Dennis Davis laughing with friends during a bull training session

Dramatic photograph of a bucking bull

Photograph of a bull rider before a ride

Action photograph of a bucking bull in mid air

Anthony Smith - Bull Rider

Dennis Davis petting the back of a bucking bull

Bull trainer Dennis Davis laughing with friends while drinking beer

Dennis Davis Bucking Bulls

Detailed photograph of a cowboy driving in a classic truck with a rifle by his side

Photograph of a cowboy riding in the back of a pickup truck at sunset

Bucking bull trainer Dennis Davis loading a bull onto a trailer at dusk

William Matthews - Artist

Photographs of Western Artist William Matthews

A First Meeting with a Western Legend

Although he doesn’t come from The West and wouldn’t restrict himself to the title of Western Artist, there is no denying the indelible effect William Matthew’s work has had on Western culture.

As with most of my subjects in any genre, it’s important that I have a genuine interest. And I’ve long been a fan of Matthews’ art, which was the reason for contacting Western Art Collector Magazine to see if they’d be interested in a feature on the iconic watercolorist.

At 76 years young he’s full of life and still has a strong desire to create art at a prolific pace. So having the opportunity to meet and photograph Matthew’s at work in his Denver, CO studio was a gift i’ll always be grateful for. A lot of artists can’t be bothered with this kind of thing, but he was welcoming and generous with conversation throughout our time together.

Shared Stories from Historic Ranches Across the West

Of the many compliments you could say about an artist, perhaps the best is that their style is instantly recognizable. And there’s no mistaking the renowned paintings he created of the American West, specifically of the buckaroos in nothern Nevada. There isn’t another artist alive whose work even vaguely resembled Matthews’. Which could be a big reason for his success, but it was also what drew me to him. Digest his paintings for a while and you’ll know they were created by a person that truly became part of the life. He was there. The light, colors, and textures of his subjects could only be made by a person with first hand experience. So naturally we talked a lot about our experiences having visited a lot of the same ranches. Oddly, a few days before writing this post, I came back from the Winecup Gamble Ranch - a place he frequented. A number of his paintings of the ranch grace the walls there and his book “Working The West” sits proudly on the coffee table at the big house. To further the conversation about shared experiences we also spoke about Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, where we both had work on exhibition at the same time.

Capturing the Atmosphere of an Artist’s Workspace

Matthew’s has lived a life in art. It is his life, and that’s obvious when you walk into his beautiful studio, which I’m told he hadn’t ever granted access to. The shelves are filled with books about design - previous profession and gateway into art. The floors are a beautiful hard wood that accents the rich walls filled with momentos from decades of travel, and of course, art. The upstairs loft feels like a break room of sorts, where Matthews goes to play one of the dozen guitars that line the space. All of this is obviously bathed in beautiful light from the north facing window that he designed along with the rest of the studio.

Photographing an artist like this in his sanctuary should never be taken lightly. And there is also a lot to consider when it comes to the plan of attack. First and foremost is respecting their time. Beforehand I had it in my head to set up a few strobes, but quickly realized that half hour would be better spent photographing documentary style as a fly on the wall with available light.

How Matthews’ Work Connects to Cowboy Photography

William Matthews’s paintings aren’t made to create a dramatic version of the American West. They are quite the opposite. His paintings are beautiful, but they’re also full of the real grit that comes with being a real cowboy. And that same grit is what I hope to portray in my photographs. So if you’re attracted to his style, you might also enjoy the photographs I make of working cowboys, which you can view HERE.

Prints from my cowboy series are also available HERE.

Portrait of artist William Matthews

Photograph of William Matthews painting in his Denver, CO studio.

Photograph of William Matthews painting

The Spanish Ranch - Nevada

Historic Cowboy Photography at the Spanish Ranch in Nevada

Documenting a Legendary Nevada Cattle Operation

Northern Nevada is home to some of the most historic cattle ranches in the country. North of I-80, the landscape becomes a patchwork of sagebrush and working land, a region shaped by generations of ranchers. I recently had the chance to photograph life on the Spanish Ranch in Tuscarora, Nevada, part of the legendary Ellison Ranching Company, which has been operating there since 1910. But the history of this land goes back even further. Buckaroos were running cattle here long before the Ellisons arrived, and luckily, many of the old traditions are still alive there today. You see it in the way the cowboys move through their day, in the gear on their horses, and in the quiet pride they carry.

Why Nevada’s Buckaroo Country Feels Different

Every ranch has something unique, but I’ll admit I’m especially drawn to those in Nevada. The Sagebrush Sea has its own kind of pull; wide open, endless, and meditative. The buckaroo style itself, the horsemanship, the gear, the rhythm of the work all feels timeless and intentional. Even just driving onto the ranch, you know you’re entering a special place.

When I visited, it was branding season, and the cowboys were camped in teepees out in the desert, hours from the nearest town. Each night, I’d fall asleep staring out at the fading light on the horizon, just the wind, the birds, and the slow color shift of the sagebrush. No noise. No phones. No traffic. It’s the kind of peace you can’t buy or download.

Mornings started early with breakfast at 4:30 a.m., and then the day unfolds just the same way it has for ages, horseback across giant swaths of pristine country. Watching these cowboys work in such a remote, beautiful place is something I’ll never take for granted.

Photographing the Spirit of the American West

Photographing working cowboys on historic ranches like the Spanish Ranch isn’t just about documenting a job, it’s about capturing a way of life that’s still deeply rooted in purpose, patience, and hard work. Every trip out to a ranch like this reminds me why I do what I do. It’s always hard to leave after spending time with great people that deserve so much respect, knowing the road home means traffic, screens, and emails stacked up like fence posts. But I carry the stillness of these places with me and I try to pass that along through the photographs.

View More Cowboy Photography

Click HERE to see more photographs of working cowboys in the American West.

Click HERE to shop my fine art cowboy photography prints

Contact me directly if you’re interested in licensing my cowboy photographs for editorial and commercial usage - rob@robhammerphotography.com

Horses kicking up dust in a corral at The Spanish Ranch in Nevada

Riding through open range

Buckaroos dragging calves to the branding fire

Sunset on the Spanish Ranch

Pack of horses in a cloud of dust

Motion blur cowboy photograph

Roping calves on a working cattle ranch in the American West

Nick Donker

The Spanish Ranch - Tuscarora, NV

Buckaroo getting into his teepee

Leather fringe on a pair of cowboy chaps

Cow Camp at The Spanish Ranch in Nevada

Makayla Fulfer - Cowgirl

Group photo of cowboys on the Spanish Ranch

Early morning bronc ride

Cody Braucher - Cow Boss - Spanish Ranch

Cowboys working cattle on a ranch in Nevada

Traditional Western Saddle Making: Cowboy Gear and Fine Art Photography

Inside the Workshop of a True Western Craftsman

Custom Western Saddles

“If I created a really, really goddamn nice saddle, and some cowboy—or buckaroo or vaquero—rode that son of a bitch, but took care of it; if he burned the damn edge of the cantle binding off from draggin’ calves, or burnt the fork cover down with a groove where his rope ran, and he wore the flowers down to nothing, that’s a success. It ain’t the son of a bitch in mint condition that’s hanging in a barn somewhere.” That quote from Doug Cox might give you an insight to his personality, but there’s a lot more to know about the obsessed saddle maker from Grangeville, Idaho that’s still feverishly working toward better saddles 50+ years later. His stoic demeanor and unfiltered vocabulary might offer a rough first impression, but he’s sharp as a whip and two steps ahead of everyone. Despite being a world class artist, he retains no ego, is quick to laugh, and only answers your questions with honest thoughts. The kind of guy you never once doubt when he starts a sentence with “Fact is…..”. 

Born in 1950, Doug’s earliest memories formed on the steer ranch his family lived and labored on for 17 years before renting their own. “When you were old enough to work, they worked your ass off”, Doug recalls. For him that was age 7, and a typical day started in the morning, milking cows and feeding saddle horses. In the winter they fed 2,000 head of steer with grain around noon and again with hay at night. Then it was back to milking cows, feeding saddle horses, fixing equipment, supper, sleep, repeat - a typical routine for everyone Doug knew, so he never thought to complain. At 8 or 9 he was put on a horse to start moving cows around, at which point, “you passed the dogs in rank”, he joked. In high school Cox found a job nearby working for a man who raised registered quarter horses, because he didn’t get paid at home, just fed. Other jobs followed; day working for a slew of ranches in the area. He also started stamping leather belts for beer money. The first one came out of shop class. “I backed the teacher up. He couldn’t imagine anybody in high school could do something like that.” Still, all of Doug’s long waking hours were spent horseback in big country where he met a lot of “shittin’ saddle makers”, until moving south in 69’ for an Ag college in Sheridan, Wyoming that had two sports - basketball and rodeo! So began his career riding broncs and showing reining cow horses and cutting horses. More importantly though, he was hanging out at King’s Saddlery after school - drinking coffee, shootin’ the shit, and becoming a recipient of the trickle down effect. Shortly after, the fascination with school vanished, and he was once again enjoying life as a drifting cowboy. 

Towards the end of 1970 his number was picked for the military where he spent 4 years as a corpsman on an Orthopedic Ward. There he received forced knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Being up close and personal with broken people day in and day out taught him about “human construction”, as he calls it. More specifically it cued his one track mind into a would be blueprint for the opposite of a shittin’ saddle. 

After the service, he wound up back in Idaho working in the logging industry, running a Cat and riding broncs on the weekend. That fall, his crew got snowed out and told to sign up for their “rocking chair money”. Never one to welcome idle time, he got the leather bug and decided to get serious, combing Burton’s Leather Craft catalogue and “ordered me a shit ton of tools”. First up were belts and women's handbags which didn’t exactly quench his thirst. Then out of nowhere, he received a call from an old rodeo friend wanting the interior of his Cadillac El Dorado stamped. His first real job! The arm rests and doors were barely finished before the owner got drunk one night and wrapped it around a telephone pole. So his big money job went out with a hangover, but business still progressed and people took notice. In 76’ the legendary saddle maker Ray Holes offered him an apprentice job, as it seemed Cox’s particular knowledge and talent was taking away customers. An incredible opportunity for Doug to learn the business from the ground up! His days were now spent repairing equipment and crafting leather into pouches for vice grip pliers, chaps, and axe scabbards that got sent all around the world. “There was no scrap. We used everything till there wasn’t any left, and turned it into money” says Cox. $2.85/hour sat just fine with him because the real payment was education, and the promise of a position building saddles after 5 years. 

He became a sponge. “You’d go home and try to do everything they did as good as they did. Some things you pick up pretty rapid, and some things I’m still working on today. Nothing is a done deal. Every day is brand new.” Aside from Holes himself, Bob Kelly was Doug’s biggest mentor up to that point. 3 years after Cox signed on at Holes’, Kelly, who built 1,326 saddles in that shop, retired. So Cox was thrown into the job simply because there wasn’t anyone else. He was forced to figure everything out on the fly. “I asked Ray Holes, what happens when you cut out a seat and stamp it, and it stretches, and you can’t get it to go?” Holes bluntly replied “you cry a lot”. By April of 81’ Cox had an Ivy League Degree in making saddles and successfully co-authored 210 riding saddles as well as 360 pack saddles.

Next chapter: Montana - 3 Forks Saddlery. There, letters started coming in complimenting Cox on his seats, and the reality of his seeing his own name on the marquee began to materialize. He left 3 Forks before too long and did some ranch work for a guy in Madison Valley to earn rent money, but made it clear from day 1 that building saddles was the priority. Next came an opportunity to sell those saddles at a Western store on the four corners in Bozeman. And not much later, with 200 saddles to his sole credit, he moved into an old vet clinic building and things went gang busters. “You’re always wondering if you’re gonna starve to death when things go to shit. So I was surprised when the business kept coming”, says Cox. The Montana winter of 97’ didn’t quit. Or as he puts it, “the one that soured my ass”. That October he helped a friend sort replacement heifers and ween and ship calves. “There was 2 feet of snow and it was 21 below zero. On May 15th we still had all that snow in the yard with a whole lot more on top of it. I had enough”, Doug recalls with tangible disdain. In December of 2000 he and his wife Deb, closed on a house in Gardnerville, Nevada, where you’ll still find him today. They did all the moving themselves. Tools, leather, 10 horses, and every barn/house furnishing you can imagine. 14 hours each way. Over and over and over. That put him 3.5 years behind on orders with people calling wanting to know where their saddles were. He just kept plugging along and tinkering with better designs. Cox got very intense over the structure of his seats, asking tree makers to institute changes that would allow for necessary improvements. 911 struck a massive blow to the world, launching a political and economic roller coaster directly impacting his business. Amongst the obvious wreckage, big outfits were getting scooped up by mining companies, and kids didn’t want to cowboy anymore. Fewer cowboys equals less demand for saddles. In classic Cox fashion, he took the ride but didn’t spend too much time worrying. Instead, focusing on getting better, and really, that’s been his psychology all along. He knows the grandest peaks are always followed by a valley no matter who you are, and the only answer is to keep putting out exceptional products. “I ponder a lot of shit and wonder why the hell am I doing what I’m doing? And then you start to think back about how everything that you did taught you what you’re doing now, and that gives you the path to continue”. 

The full time saddle maker/part time philosopher has damn sure earned his loyal and diverse clientele. Everyone from the working cowboy to folks in Texas who never bother to ask the price of a custom Full Flower. His saddles have been shipped to countries like Dubai, Mongolia, Australia, and Canada, “but probably not all 50 states.” Advertising has never been a priority for Cox, trusting that his faultlessly functioning art will lead to word of mouth referrals. There’s one family in Montana that’s bought close to 20 of his saddles over the years, so imagine the conversations they’ve had with neighbors. He believes in taking care of people and appreciates unwavering loyalty. So if you’re buying a custom Cox, then chances are your package will arrive with a little something extra. That might be added stamping, a breast collar, or whatever else he feels like throwing in. After all his years in business you could count on a few fingers the number of clients he’s had trouble with, but they didn’t know what they wanted to begin with. One such customer who couldn’t tell a mare from a mule had the nerve to complain after receiving his custom Cox. So Doug spent months ripping it apart and building it back to the new abhorrent specifications. “Right before I was about to disconnect the phone in Montana, that son of a bitch called wanting to order another saddle”, he recounts with a chuckle. 

At 75 Doug is still pushing his art. After long days wrestling with leather he sits on the couch under a Bison mount, with sketchpad and pencil in a relentless attempt to crack the code on a perfect wild rose to elevate the stamping on his next saddle. When asked why, he stops, stares off for a while in contemplation, then says “it’s just my nature”. Cox wants to feel good about every final product leaving his door because he won’t sleep at night knowing you aren’t 100% satisfied, but that’s not the whole story. In the most humble way possible, with money and fame aside, he yearns to be the best. Your baseline Doug Cox saddle goes for about $4,500, and he’s happy to make that for anyone who asks, but the unconventional creator in him requires ambitious challenges. Doug has been inspired by so many of his predecessors and contemporaries over the years; Ray Holes, Jerry Holes, Billy Gardner, Don King, Merve Ringelo, and Al Stoleman to name a few. According to Doug, “Hamley’s put the best seats in saddles that ever was, but they never made anything fancy”. Visalia on the other hand, is top of the heap in his eyes because of their combination of functionality and stunning aesthetics. Visalia stopped making saddles in the 60’s, yet he still sees them on a pedestal as daily inspiration. “When you saw something you liked, you were a coyote. You just kept chasing it till you got it”, he says. That’s why he decided to make a Visalia style saddle that took up 3 years of his life. Mounting silver to the horn, gullet front, and swell caps alone took he and Ron Meuws (silversmith) three 18 hour days. Nobody asked him to build a $165,000 saddle full of silver and rose gold (currently for sale). It was purely an itch that demanded scratching. Doug genuinely cares about the art he puts into the world, regardless of whether it gets purchased or not. His cumulative life experience in and out of the saddle fuels an insatiable desire to create the perfect saddle. Of course this is a futile effort, but Cox will be the first to tell you that “insanity is cheap”. And as Bob Kelly once told him, “the day you make the perfect saddle, you’re dead”. On the other hand, if a guy like Doug doesn’t have something to shoot for, he’s as good as dead. 

I pulled into Doug’s house one day as another pickup drove off in a huff. Turns out that person had come to offer $50,000 for one of his bridal horses, which he promptly turned down. Why? “Oooohh…….I think a lot more of my horses than that” he said sentimentally. Driving by you’d never know what happens in the nondescript building that turns out world class leather products, and that’s the way he likes it. Interruptions are undesirable at best. The work is all that matters. If you’re lucky enough to get in, seeing the artist at play is something to behold. He’s the only one there, but you never think twice about who the owner might be. It’s Doug’s place and they have a relationship. One complimenting the other, almost symbiotically. It’s the Western version of a one man barbershop that’s organically and unknowingly grown over time. In winter months, the wood stove holds a perpetual fire that warms the walls adorned with hunting trophies, Charlie Russell prints, photos of saddles, memorable bronc rides, head stalls, breast collars, hundreds of hand tools, and a beautiful set of long horns. Piles of the finest leather here, there, and everywhere. Archaic leather equipment foreign to anyone outside his industry. Scattered saddles in various stages of completion - some made for fun, for customers, and others just to look at. The only soundtrack is a crackling fire, his grazing horses, and whatever Mother Nature decides to muster up that day. He’s locked in to the work with no need for entertainment. His eyes never divert from the leather when reaching for tools and you get the feeling he could maneuver through the impeccably cluttered shop blindfolded and never miss a beat. If you poke around too long you’re sure to stumble on a few revolvers and Winchester repeaters, loaded of course. His shop is exactly what you’d expect of someone that has spent a life in leather. As usual, Doug is currently back ordered on saddles for clients new and old, near and far. He’s in a good place - people still want a Doug Cox saddle. He jokingly baulks with frustration about being busy, knowing full well that’s all he wants. Then goes on about a new saddle he’s cooking up. A Mother Hubbard,which was a popular style in the 1860’s, but people don’t think about them much anymore. They are absolutely hellacious to build, even for a veteran with 923 saddles to his mark. “So, why”?, I asked. Again, he looks off for a while, then says with a grin, “just because”. 

If you’re someone who appreciates the heritage of the West — whether you’ve ridden the range or just admire it from afar — I invite you to take a look at my collection of cowboy photography prints. These are real working ranches, real cowboys, and real moments, captured with the same authenticity Doug brings to every saddle he makes.

👉 View Cowboy Photography Prints

Western saddle with lariat, rifle, and scabbard

Custom Western saddle maker in Nevada

The tools needed to make custom Western saddles

Doug Cox at work on a custom Western saddle

Intricate leather stamping on a custom Western saddle

Sewing leather for a custom saddle

Doug Cox creating a Western Saddle at his workshop in Nevada

Custom silver saddle

Leather work on a custom saddle

Details of a Western saddle being made at a workshop in Nevada

Capture the Spirit of the American West with Fine Art Prints of Old Corrals on Historic Cattle Ranches

Timeless Beauty of Old Corrals: Fine Art Photography Prints

Ian Tyson said best with the now famous line “I like old corrals and sagebrush…”

The American West is a land rich with tradition, rugged landscapes, and stories that span generations. Among the most iconic and enduring symbols of this heritage are the old corrals on cattle ranches that have been used for decades, if not centuries, to round up and care for livestock. These weathered, rustic structures hold a deep connection to the West’s cowboy culture and the hardworking men and women who maintain the traditions of the land.

As a Western photographer, I have had the privilege of capturing the beauty and authenticity of these historic corrals, immortalizing them in fine art photography prints. The texture of aged wood, the worn fences, and the fading paint tell a story of hard work, resilience, and a lifestyle that is slowly fading from the modern landscape. Each photograph brings to life the essence of ranching life in the American West—gritty, timeless, and beautifully raw.

These color and black-and-white prints evoke the nostalgia of a past era, where the sight of a well-worn corral set against sweeping landscapes was part of daily life. Whether you are drawn to the rugged beauty of these structures or simply appreciate the rawness of Western landscapes, these prints make a stunning addition to any collection. They are more than just photographs—they are windows into the heart of the American West, preserving a piece of history for future generations.

Perfect for those who appreciate Western art, rustic decor, or historical photography, these fine art prints of old corrals will transport you to the heart of the American West. They invite the viewer to pause and reflect on the enduring legacy of ranching, while adding an element of rustic elegance to any space.

Contact me directly if you’d like a western photography print of these old corrals for your home, office, or commercial space - rob@robhammerphotography.com

Old wood cattle corrals in the American West

Black and white photograph of wood cattle corrals

Old cattle corrals covered in snow

Montana Cattle Ranch

Morning sun shines on the Sierra Nevada mountains and a cattle ranch outside Bridgeport, CA

Photograph of the cattle pens on the C-Punch Ranch near Lovelock, Nevada

Sunset on a cattle ranch in Arizon

Black and white photograph of wood cattle corrals in front of an iconic Western backdrop

Photograph of wood fence posts reflected in water at sunset on the Diamond A Ranch in Arizona

Wood corrals on a cattle ranch in Colorado

Authentic Cowboy Photography: Preserving the Spirit of the American West

Timeless Images of Cowboys: Fine Art Photography Prints for Western Enthusiasts

Bring the unique charm of the American West into your home with our collection of authentic limited edition cowboy photography prints. Each image captures the spirit of the frontier, showcasing iconic scenes of cowboys in action—wrangling cattle, riding horses across vast open plains, and building bonds in the branding pen.

These hand signed prints highlight the raw beauty of the Western landscape, from sweeping vistas of golden prairies to dramatic mountain backdrops. With a focus on authenticity, each photograph reflects the grit and grace of cowboy life, celebrating the tradition and heritage of this enduring culture.

Perfect for home décor or as a unique gift for lovers of Western history, our prints come in various sizes and formats, allowing you to find the perfect piece to complement your space. Bring the essence of the Wild West into your home with our stunning cowboy photography—where every print tells a story of adventure, resilience, and the timeless allure of the open range.

Click here to shop cowboy photography prints

Authentic western cowboy photography prints

Black and white framed cowboy photography prints

ML Leddy Cowboy Boots

Custom Cowboy Boot Photographs

Legendary Western Craftsmanship

ML Leddy’s has been making custom cowboy boots in Texas since 1922, and you can feel every bit of that history when you step into their workshop in San Angelo. The storefront is polished and proud—rows of exquisite boots, saddles, and a name that’s been part of Western tradition for over a century. But it’s what’s happening in the back that really caught my attention.

That’s where I spent the day, photographing the boot makers. No models, no staging, just real craftsmen doing the work like it’s been done for generations. Some of these guys have been with Leddy’s for decades. They know the smell of each kind of leather, the sound of a good stitch, the weight of the right tool. Nothing leaves that shop without passing through their hands.

The space itself isn’t glamorous. Harsh light, scuffed floors, machines that look older than most of us. But that’s the point. This isn’t about trends, it’s about tradition. Watching them work, you realize these boots aren’t just footwear. They’re a continuation of something bigger. A legacy. A relationship between maker and wearer that starts long before the first fitting and lasts well beyond the last step.

Photographing in that room felt less like documenting a product and more like honoring a process. This is cowboy culture too, not just on the back of a horse, but in the quiet focus of someone building something with care, precision, and pride. Something that each loyal customer will wear with pride for the rest of their lives.

Go HERE to see more of my Western Photography And contact me directly if you’d like a photography print of ML Leddy’s - rob@robhammerphotography.com

Custom sign at ML Leddy’s in San Angelo, TX.

Wood boot lasts fill the shelves at ML Leddy’s

Alligator leather cowboy boots

Making custom cowboy boots in Texas

Handmade cowboy boots

Stitching cowboy boots by hand

Measuring a boot last for handmade cowboy boots in Texas

Wood nails attach a boot sole at ML Leddy’s in San Angelo, TX

Handmade cowboy boots in Texas

Custom boot lasts

Old cowboy boot parts

Custom cowboy boots from ML Leddy in San Angelo, TX

KJZZ Phoenix Radio

Basketball Photography Exhibition

So happy to see/hear this interview by Mike Brodie on KJZZ Radio in Phoenix with Western Spirit Museum’s exhibition coordinator Henry Terry. They discussed my American Backcourts photographs which will be on display their at the museum in Scottsdale until mid April 2025. It’s so fulfilling to see this project getting recognition after shooting it for 13+ years, so please click the LINK if you’d like to listen to their conversation.

And you can shop the fine art basketball prints from this series HERE

KJZZ Radio interview with Western Spirit Museum’s exhibition coordinator Henry Terry.

Tom Moorhouse

Tom Moorhouse - Cowboy

Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame

Tom Moorhouse is a Texas legend so it’s no wonder that he was inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. He’s cowboyed all his left. Never wanted to do anything different. A born cowpuncher. Aside from keeping his own herd of cattle, he also worked for many years at the famed Tongue River Ranch and 6666 Ranch. Tom is a hell of a story teller and might just have the best ears in the business. He was very gracious with his time, showing me around the ranch and the cemetery he built there for his wives. It was interesting to hear a guy like Tom being so candidly emotional when talking about them. I’m real grateful to have met and photographed him. Do yourself a favor and look up some videos of Tom online. He’s got a voice perfect for telling cowboy stories that you could listen to for days.

Click HERE to see more of my cowboy photography. And contact me directly for prints - rob@robhammerphotography.com

Tom Moorhouse - Texas Cowboy

Cowpuncher - Tom Moorhouse

Portrait of legendary Texas cowboy Tom Moorhouse

Tom Moorhouse

The Year's Best Photographs

American Photography Competition

The American Photography Competition is one of only a handful of competitions that I believe in out of the countless scams out there promising worldwide “exposure” for photographers. So it’s an honor to say that two of my cowboy photographs have been selected for the AP 40 - Year’s Best Photos! If you’d like to be humbled and inspired then go through the gallery of winning images . So much beautiful work in there.

If you’d like to see more of my authentic cowboy photographs go to this Gallery . And go HERE to purchase photography prints from the cowboy series.

Award winning cowboy photography

Award winning Western Photography

Fine Art Basketball Photography

Photography Exhibition - Basketball

Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

Incredibly thrilled to announce a new exhibition of my American Backcourts series at the Western Spirit Museum in Scottsdale, Arizona. Not only is it a honor for me, but I also see it as a big win for the sport of basketball to be featured this way in a western museum. I love the American West so much and have been working on this basketball photography series all over the country for about 13 years now. So to have the game celebrated in place where most people never associate the two, is quite gratifying! If you’re in the area, please stop by to see the show as well as the other incredible exhibitions they have throughout the museum. I particularly enjoyed seeing William Matthews work in person. I’ve been a fan of his for a while now and have enjoyed seeing his work in books, but nothing compares to seeing it in real life.

More from the press release:

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., August 22, 2024 –  Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West announced today the opening of the upcoming exhibition Rob Hammer: American Backcourts, which will be on view from August 26, 2024, through April 13, 2025. This exhibition offers a fresh perspective on the New West by showcasing the distinctive relationship between basketball and the Western United States through the lens of acclaimed photographer Rob Hammer.

American Backcourts presents a stunning collection of images that capture the essence of basketball in the West—where the sport, though not traditionally associated with the region, embodies the pioneering spirit that defines the American West. Over 13 years and 300,000 miles, Hammer has traversed the Western United States, documenting rustic and makeshift basketball courts that tell the stories of resilience, ingenuity, and the enduring love of the game.

Inspired by a photograph of NBA legend Larry Bird’s childhood hoop in French Lick, Indiana, Hammer’s journey reveals how even the simplest setups can nurture greatness. His work showcases the raw beauty of handmade hoops crafted from whatever materials are at hand, placed in environments as diverse as the Western landscape itself—on dirt, grass, clay, and gravel. These images reflect the love of basketball and the resourceful and indomitable spirit that has come to define the West.

Click here to check out limited edition basketball prints from this series

Photography exhibition at the Western Spirit Museum in Scottsdale, Arizona

Why Choosing the Right Western Photography Gallery Makes All the Difference

What a True Western Photography Gallery Offers You

How to Recognize Authentic Cowboy Prints & Find the Gallery That Delivers

When someone searches for a Western Photography Gallery, they aren’t just shopping for images. They’re shopping for moments—stories framed in dust, sky, horses, and grit. If you’re on that path, you want work that goes beyond decor. You want pieces that truly bring you into the West.

Here’s what separates an ordinary gallery from one that shows Western photography worth owning—and why browsing the right gallery’s prints matters.

What Realness Looks Like

The most memorable Western photography galleries don’t rely on props or polished scenes. They show real cowboys, working through weather, dawn light, and hard ground. The best prints are made on working ranches (not back lots), shot in conditions most photographers don’t love: dust, heat, early light, or cold wind. That “grit,” the unscripted moments, give each photo life.

Details Matter, & They Tell Stories

• Print Quality & Materials: Look for archival paper, fine art printing processes, signed and numbered editions. You don’t want distortion, bad color, or flimsy framing when it’s hanging in your living room.

• Story & Location: Where was this shot? What season? Who is in the frame? Knowing it was taken at a historic ranch in Texas, or under heavy skies in Nevada, adds meaning.

• Range of Styles: Cowboys roping, branding, open range, strong cloudscapes, old barns, quiet moments, motion blur—variety signals someone curating with intention.

Why My Gallery Is Different

Here’s how my gallery aims to hit what you’re looking for when you type in Western Photography Gallery:

• Prints of real cowboys doing real work—no models, no stage setups.

• Both black & white and color pieces that capture light, weather, and texture.

• Locations from working ranches across the American West—Texas, Montana, Nevada.

• Thoughtfully produced limited editions, signed, numbered, ready to hang or frame.

• Enough selection to find something that speaks to you—whether you like dynamic action, sweeping landscapes, or intimate portraits.

How to Use This Gallery Right Now

If you want to see Western photography prints that match what you’re searching for:

• Visit my gallery page - Out of a few favorites? Compare sizes and print make—think about where you’ll hang it.

• Need framing suggestions? Reach out. I’m happy to help visualize a piece in your space.

• Not ready yet? Bookmark the gallery or join the email list—new work drops regularly, and limited editions sell.

Western cowboy photography prints

Cowboy Photography Gallery

Western landscape photography print

Cattle branding photography print

Black and white cowboy print

Photograph of a Montana cattle drive

Western Photography Gallery

Teal Blake

Teal Blake - Cowboy - Painter

Western Artist

Teal Blake has been an artist for as long as he can remember and people are drawn to his painting of cowboys and horses because of the authenticity that only comes from someone genuinely living the lifestyle. He’s not the kind of guy that fabricates imagery in his head. Every brush stroke that’s put on his sought after canvas’ comes from real life experiences he’s had as a cowboy himself. So it’s no wonder that Blake is the youngest member that has ever been asked to join Cowboy Artists of America.

I’m personally drawn to Teal’s paintings, which is why I contacted him a while back about getting together for a shoot. Luckily a home for the article was easily found in Western Art Collector Magazine, making it a win all the way around for everyone. The longer I live in this photography world the more important it becomes to focus on projects and stories that interest me. Otherwise, what’s the point? There has to be more than a paycheck at the end of the day. Hanging out with Teal in his art studio in Texas was great. He’s a really easy going guy, which can be rare in the art universe that’s so often filled with egos. Aside from our shared interest in creating work about cowboys, Teal is also a fly fisherman and food lover, so we naturally had a lot to talk about. After having dinner at his house with he and his girlfriend, Teal’s generosity continued when he gave me a box of flies to fish with on the Brazos River the next morning because all the fly shops were closed. He’s originally from Montana, but that’s what I’ve come to know as Texas Hospitality.

Click here to view Teal Blake’s paintings on his website

Click here to view my cowboy photography

Teal Blake painting in his studio in Texas

Western cowboy painter Teal Blake

Photographs of Teal Blake in his art studio

Western Horseman Magazine

Cowboy Photographer

It’s been 3.5+ years since I started photographing working cowboys all across the American West and I remain humbled by every opportunity that’s come along. This is by far my favorite project to date and one that I don’t plan on stopping. So it’s an honor being included in Western Horseman Magazine’s list of best photographers for 2024! If you could please take a minute to vote for me it would be greatly appreciated. You can do so once a day until July 1st at this link:

https://westernhorseman.com/best-of-western-horseman/people/#photographers

Thank you so much!

Cattle Ranching in Carson Valley, Nevada

Carson Valley, Nevada Cowboy Photography

This whole cowboy project “officially” started 3+ years ago through a series of random events that landed me at a bull sale in Gardnerville, Nevada. There I met Spencer Anderson of the Anderson Cattle Co. We wound up chatting, and after explaining to him what I was trying to do, he invited me to his cattle branding that would take place a few months down the road. At the time, I was as green as can be, so the whole thing was an eye opening experience to say the least. A look into the Western world that I’d been searching for. Spencer and his wife Jessica were the first people to let me IN - a debt I can never repay. They are first generation cattle ranchers with leases in Carson Valley, Nevada and Chico, California. I was immediately struck by not only their kindness, but their passion for the business and lifestyle. It was contagious. Over the years we’ve developed a friendship that I’m extremely grateful for, which came full circle when they asked me to produce some work for them, and later trusted me to tell their story in Working Ranch Magazine. They are as real as it gets, being very open about their struggles getting to where they are today - an incredibly refreshing contrast to the bullshit personas the rest of the world portrays on Instagram. Stories like theirs need to be told because it can inspire other people to follow their dreams in the same way.

If you’d like to get some of their beef shipped directly to your home, visit their website 2A Beef

Click here to view more of my cowboy photography

Anderson Cattle Co - Carson Valley, Nevada

Ranch direct beef in Carson Valley, Nevada

Buck Brannaman Photographs

Buck Brannaman - Horse Trainer

Imagine being a fly on the wall while Marlon Brando rehearses lines alone in his dressing room. Or being the only person at Yankee Stadium while Mickey Mantle takes batting practice.  Witnessing a master at work is a gift. Like watching an IG video of tourists approaching Bison in Yellowstone, it’s nearly impossible to look away. However, access to such events isn’t often granted and requires some form of payment. That might be putting in your time with sweat equity, or the purchase of an elusive ticket that seems to vanish the second it hits the internet. Stumbling upon greatness by way of simply being in the right place/right time, is something else all together. Such was the case last fall in Montana on the historic OW Ranch outside of Decker. 

Buck Brannaman - Western Horseman Magazine

If you’re reading this, then you know who Buck Brannaman is, so that’ll save us some time. On this particular hot and buggy day, the OW crew led by Gabe Clark, had gathered and branded a couple hundred calves. Afterward they all trailered back to HQ and unloaded horses into the barn. One cowgirl was having a hard time with Lux - a 4 year old Quarter Horse Mare, getting in and out of her trailer. You’re familiar with the sound of raging hooves slamming against metal, each one increasing in decibels. The kind of commotion that causes everyone to instinctively hop over the top rail in fear of a broken leg, or worse. A few attempts were made to coach Lux’s anxiety, while Brannaman stood quietly nearby, graciously watching the next generation work out their own problems. But that horse no more wanted to walk into a trailer than a toddler wants to be thrown into the deep end of a pool. After twenty minutes his excitement could be bridled no longer, so he asked kindly for a swing. That’s when the day changed. A place filled with energy, laughs, and the general happiness of branding season, now felt more like a classroom with all eyes on the professor. Every cowboy/girl stopped in their tracks to watch, hoping to sponge knowledge from the master. Nearby truck seats and trailers were the only option for shade, so they quickly became the students desks, conveniently half circled around the teacher. And for clarification, the OW is filled with highly skilled hands. So the onlookers weren’t just a bunch of wanna be’s, but every good cowboy knows that learning is a lifelong process.  

Famous Horse Trainer - Buck Brannaman

It had already been a full day and getting hotter. Brannaman wasn’t planning on being Brannaman right then. This week was sort of a vacation for him, so the program read brand calves then relax on the front porch with a cocktail, but he simply couldn’t help himself. Did Michael Jordan ever turn down a challenge? No, he seeked them out. Space in the trailer was tight. Side to side there was only room enough for the horse and Buck, but of course he seemed right at home. Even when it got Western. It didn’t take long to realize this wouldn’t be a 10 minute project, so the students settled in, happy to receive an invaluable education. Time ticked by imperceptibly while the sun beat down on Brannanam as he stood surrounded by metal and exacerbated equine. “Buck, do you need some water?” “No, I’m good”, he’d say without lifting his head or taking eyes off the horse. Tap Tap Tap. Over and over again, calculated touches of his flag to Lux’s back shoulder, belly, and feet while gently urging with the reins in his left hand. A delicate dance of give and take.  The horse showed signs of improvement then regression, half stepping it’s back legs like it was being pushed off the edge of a cliff, genuinely afraid.Once inside he slammed his head repeatedly on the roof, then dropped right to the ground, rattling the entire trailer. After an hour some of the hands begrudgingly left only out of obligation to set up a trap for the next day's branding. Everyone else took no notice because their eyes were glued on the “action”. At one point Buck said in his own calm way that these types of exercises are crowd thinners because most people lack the longevity to deal with such subtle wins. Which makes you realize that patience is the conduit to his greatness. Lux wasn’t even his horse. Nor was he leading one of his world famous clinics, but you get the sense that his obligation to the animals and desire to help trumps all that.  Another 30 minutes went by with small gains and bigger losses. Still though, there was no wavering from Brannaman. He was there to complete the task. The only sounds heard were the flickering of the flag until the slightest bit of progress was made, which he recognized verbally but didn’t celebrate. Another 30 minutes passed. Two hours into an impromptu session and you had to wonder where he’d draw the line and start thinking about a cold whisky. When asked what to do if he felt the horse was out of patience, he stated that horses are much more patient than humans. And if your horse isn’t listening, then you probably don’t have anything interesting to say! 

Buck Brannaman working with a young horse on the OW Ranch in Montana

Buck Brannaman training a horse

A half hour and several hundred taps of the flag later, the guys came back from setting up the traps and Buck was still at work in the same 10 ft bubble as when they left. The only thing that had changed was the horse. After several thousand taps of the flag, he could almost seamlessly walk in and out of the trailer. His calm and confidence now mirroring Brannamans because they developed a mutual trust. After a few more taps, Buck said quietly “that’s the one”. Sure enough, he had successfully taken Lux from being an outright liability to a gentle collaborator. Any anxiety and hesitation had been erased. All this on a day when he simply wanted to throw some loops in good company and soak up a Montana sunset. Most people might have given Lux the old college try if anything at all. Buck spent 2.5 hours because that’s what he was born to do. Saying no or walking away wasn’t an option. And for those lucky enough to bear witness, they received the gift of a lifetime. Afterward his daughter Reata joked “you might have a future in this, Dad.” To which he calmly replied, “I don’t know, it’s kinda competitive” 

Photograph of Buck Brannaman on the OW Ranch in Montana

Contact me directly with all cowboy print inquiries for your home, office, or commercial space - rob@robhammerphotography.com

Montana Cowboy Photographs

Montana Cowboys through the Lens: Fine Art Prints of Grit, Sky & Tradition

Big Sky Moments & Cowboy Spirit—For Fans of Yellowstone and Real Ranch Life

When I pull up to a Montana ranch with a camera, I'm looking for more than a scene—I’m looking for something true. That first breath of morning air, the way the horizon stretches. Montana cowboys move quietly, with wear on their boots and stories in their hands. They don’t need an audience. Their work—reining, branding, riding out—isn’t performance, but it carries power anyway.

I shoot what feels real: cowboys leaning into saddle leather at sunrise, the sky turning cold and blue above mountain ridges, or riders rounding up cattle under heavy clouds. Moments like that—untouched, gritty, alive—feel like they echo what Yellowstone fans see onscreen: raw Western landscape, ranch life, sweeping skies, authenticity. The Chief Joseph Ranch in Darby plays the role of the Dutton Ranch in the show, but what draws me to Montana is seeing the same rhythm of life behind the scenes.

My prints are made from those moments. Limited edition, archival prints that hold light, dust, sky, and sweat. If you’ve ever watched Yellowstone, the beauty in close‑ups of ranch gear, the way a horse’s muscle works in motion, the golden glow on barn wood—these are the same details I chase. Montana isn’t just setting; it’s character.

Whether you want to hang a Montana cowboy print above a fireplace, in a lodge, or a room that tastes of the outdoors, there’s a piece here for you. A silhouette, a dusty trail, a cowboy’s hat brim catching last light—these aren’t just photographs. They’re windows into a life rooted in land, season, purpose.

Add Western Art to Your Space
Shop Cowboy Wall Art

Montana cowboy wall art prints

Western cowboy photography prints

Editorial Cowboy Photographer

Professional Western / Cowboy Photography Services — Magazine & Commercial Assignments

Capturing Western Stories with Depth

The largest cattle ranch in the Southwest was the backdrop for one of my feature assignments with Western Horseman Magazine. But what that experience taught me goes far beyond one location—it’s proof of what I can bring to any ranch, any story, anywhere.

When a magazine or brand hires me, they don’t just get photos. They get someone who knows how to work in remote country, navigate ranch protocols, gain trust, and produce visuals with authenticity, emotion, and technical quality.

On the Diamond A shoot, I captured wide scenes, close portraits, action frames—each image crafted for storytelling. I’ve licensed those images, seen them published, and held to deadlines and narrative needs. This is the kind of work I’m ready to do for your next piece: whether a feature story, coffee table spread, hospitality branding, or campaign that needs real Western grit.

Let’s talk about your project. I can help with:

• Editorial assignments (magazine features, online storytelling)

• Licensing imagery for publications or brand use

• Commissioned ranch photography for hospitality, books, or design

Scroll through the Diamond A images below and imagine what we could do together for your next Western story and get in touch if you’d like to collaborate - rob@robhammerphotography.com

You can also view a selection of fine art cowboy photography prints or more from cowboy series

Original article from the magazine:

A crew of 5 leaves the corrals at a trot, heading out to gather a pasture that only ends at the morning sun hovering above the horizon. It feels like watching a fleet of sailboats gracefully catch wind from harbor into the open ocean, getting smaller and smaller until they melt into the sea. There’s no telling when or if they’ll ever return. Such is life for cowboys on the Diamond A Ranch outside of Seligman, Arizona. At 725,000 acres it’s the largest in the southwest and aptly nicknamed The Big Boquillas. 

“Don’t hire him if his wife isn’t there for the interview” says Sarah Kieckhefer to her husband Rick - owners of the Diamond A. She knows it takes a special breed to work this kind of spread and deal with such solitude. If the wife shows up sight unseen on day 1 and realizes her camp is 3.5 hours from the nearest town with a grocery store, it doesn’t matter how handy the cowboy is, they won’t be staying long. The land itself is owned by the Navajos and was leased for 32 years by the legendary Harvey Dietrich, who hand picked Rick in 2018 as his successor. The Kiechkefers already owned their fair share of ranches, including the K4 outside Prescott, which has been in the family since his great grandfather started it in1941. So Rick didn’t jump at Harvey’s offer until he said “you know, they aren’t making any more land”. A hard fact to argue for anyone looking to grow, and it’s not everyday that a ranch of this size falls in your lap. So he accepted the full lease in 2021, increasing his acreage overnight by roughly the size of Rhode Island. 

The diverse charisma of the Diamond A is something to behold. From its large sections carpeted in Juniper and Cedar trees that will eat up cattle, horses, a cowboy, and his dogs, to the Cataract Plains, where you can see for 50 miles. Oh, and its northern border collides eloquently with one of planet earth’s greatest icons - The Grand Canyon! But make no mistake about it, The Diamond A is a real cowboy outfit. Everything they do is with cows and horses. There is no oil money like most in Texas. Rick and Sarah still live on the family ranch, so it’s no surprise that they continue the dying tradition of pulling a wagon for the Diamond A’s spring and fall works. Rick’s pedigree doesn’t stop at ranching, as he spent a handful of years rodeoing in the NFR (2001-2006), before shifting focus back to the K4 with mom+dad. Then spreading his wings further with the purchase of a few other leases and a feed yard near the Mexican border. Sarah spent all of her years earning stripes as a barrel racer and rancher as well. The perfect team. And while the Diamond A alone boasts 8,000 head of mother cows, he insists they are in the people business. Knowing amongst all else that it takes the right people, and treating people right. When they took over, culture at The Big Bo needed a major shift,  which was no small task, but as Rick says “Ranching is passion driven. If you don’t have passion then you’re in the wrong business, because it’s a tough son of a buck”. Under prior leadership, communication between crews was abysmal. Cowboys didn’t talk to the water guys, that didn’t talk to the mechanics, and around in a circle. Rick says “I want more of a family. The whole ranch is all of our ranch”. So they dove in deep to find the right personnel and currently employ 12 full time cowboys living at 7 different camps. Two of which (Heath Denell and Ben Pat Kimball) are the sons of cowboys that previously held tenure at the Diamond A.  Being so remote, the crew might not hear from the boss for days at a time, so they are expected to be self starters, but also given the freedom to make their own decisions. Tell a guy with a family he has to camp out on the ground for a month straight, and he’ll soon be looking for another job. As long as he gets it done, the cost of a little more fuel is worth the rub to keep people happy.  The Kiechefers aren’t afraid to hire women either if they come as a team. Josh Halko (cow boss) and Heather (Dufek) Halko came down from Montana in November of 2021 and have overseen 300,0000 acres worth of pasture ever since. “Sarah and Rick have been amazing. They treat us like family” says Heather. She also adds that their job is to cowboy, nothing else. “We are given guidelines and our country, and expected to work it the best way we know how. We’re never micromanaged.” The Halko’s recently gave birth to twins (Quirt and Roan). A joyous yet stressful time for any couple without any nearby help. Even worse for a cowgirl in the middle or nowhere that can’t saddle. So Heather was worried about losing her string of horses as well as her job. She assuredly kept both.

Water is the common denominator for all ranches, so the whole crew will always pray for rain. This outfit is set up a bit differently though, with 400 miles of underground pipeline and a handful of holding tanks peppered evenly across the land. Nevertheless,  genetics were changed by bringing down heifers from Montana and the Dakotas that would be more tolerant of Arizona’s weather conditions. The horse program also needed help, which Sarah was thrilled to execute. “I always tell people that I’m cow crazy and my wife is horse crazy,” says Rick. Without four wheelers or helicopters, you need a lot of great horses to cover a ranch of such grandeur. Rick again adds “We go pretty hard. It’s big country. It’s tough. The days are long. We don’t work cattle for 3 weeks out of the year. We work em’ 8 months out of the year.” Owning the historic bloodlines of Driftwood Ike, you can bet they have implemented a great plan for continuing to breed the appropriate horses. And have already attracted some big names to their own Legacy Ranch Horse Sale. 

Sarah will be the first to tell you that her husband’s greatest asset is progressive thinking. He always gives a considerable amount of his already overflowing days and nights to what will be best for the ranch 1, 5, 10, and 20 years from now. He knows that you need to diversify in order to survive, so he took cues from Dietrich about meat packers suppressing the industry and making record profits, while the producers remained handcuffed. Unfortunately Harvey passed on Christmas Eve of 2020, but the building blocks were already in place to “write their own story”, dedicating 20% of production to boxed beef. And after a few years of figuring out all the moving parts, their gourmet products can now be found in such restaurants as the 5 star - Orange Sky and Phoenician in Phoenix as well as the Royal Palms and Sanctuary in Scottsdale. They’ve even attracted famous chefs like Chris Bianco that want to collaborate because they believe in the story and the product. If that sounds glamorous, think again. Only the middle meats of each cow can be sold to a restaurant, so ranchers need an outlet for the remaining 75%, or they’ll soon be out of business. And, if you can’t  deliver a year round supply, your partners will find someone who can. The Kiechefers want to grow their boxed beef sales to about 30-40%, but the main goal is to be better every day in every aspect of their business through efficiency. And the best way to achieve that in their mind, is having people that want to be there. People that feel ownership and pride in the ranch. Ricks says “the most important thing is that it’s those guys this year, those guys next year, and it’s those guys the year after making the decisions”.

Western photography for magazines and brands

Editorial photography services for the cattle industry

Cowboy photographer for editorial and commercial assingments

Photographs of cowboys on the Diamond A Ranch - Arizona

Diamond A Ranch Cowboy Photography — Arizona Prints for Western Art Lovers

Diamond A Ranch isn’t just another western setting—it’s one of the largest and most storied ranches in Arizona, spanning 750,000 acres. What I love about photographing here is that each frame can feel both specific to Diamond A and universal to cowboy culture. It’s a place where light, land, horses, and human spirit intersect. I’ve been fortunate to visit the Diamond A a few times now and am proud to call a few of the cowboys my friends. As is the cowboy way, they are always generous with their hospitality and happy to have me around, given that I don’t get in the way of course.

For years, my American West / Cowboy Culture series has focused on capturing raw truth over staged scenes. At Diamond A, that means cowboys being cowboys - riding across wind‑sculpted sage, horses rounding in dust, corrals framed by expansive skies, and intimate gestures of work: stitching, saddling, rope swinging. I try to catch the moments that feel timeless.

These photographs are available as gallery‑quality prints for collectors, interior designers, and Western art enthusiasts. And for those needing images for publication, branding, or creative projects, licensing is available. I also accept commissioned shoots—whether for ranch projects, hospitality brands, or editorial features.

If you’re drawn to Western photography, cowboy imagery, or just the feeling of wide land and quiet grit, take a look at fine art print collection and reach out directly if you like to discuss licensing options - rob@robhammerphotography.com

Photograph of two cowboys riding horses at sunrise with a beautiful western scene behind them

Black and white photograph of two cowboys roping a wild steer

Cowboys riding into open range on an Arizona cattle ranch

Photograph of.a cowboy kid with blood covered hands

Photograph of cowboys eating dinner in a bunkhouse

Cowboys on the Diamond A Ranch

Old wood cattle corrals on the Diamond A Ranch

A cowboy catching horses in late afternoon light

Photograph of a cowboy saddling his horse early in the morning on an Arizona cattle ranch

Black and white photograph of.a cowboy coming out of an old wood saddle house

Photograph of two cowboy riding their horses through tough terrain in Arizona

Black and White photograph of two cowboys in a bunkhouse

Sign for the Rose Well camp on the Diamond A Ranch - Center of the Universe

Cowboys repairing a broken gate on a cattle ranch

Pica Camp - Diamond A Ranch, Arizona