The Western lifestyle has a unique magic. Capturing that magic in images while immersed in the culture of the equestrian and ranch lifestyle is the domain of Cowgirls with Cameras. Formed in 2019, this partnership of three photographers: Kimberly Beer, Phyllis Burchett, and Cara Taylor Swift offers photographers and artists the opportunity to photograph real working cowboys and cowgirls amidst some of the most beautiful and pristine scenery on the planet.
“All of our events are designed to give our attendees a chance to both photograph and experience the Western lifestyle,” says co-founder Kimberly Beer. “We like to provide immersive adventures that inspire, educate, and build community.”
Cowgirls with Cameras offers a variety of experiences for photographers from beginner to advanced. “We strive to help amateur and professional photographers master their craft with creativity and style. Our workshops, retreats, and classes are open, inviting environments by design, so you can feel free to explore fresh perspectives, acquire new skills, and have fun doing it!” says co-founder Cara Taylor Swift.
Cowgirls with Cameras operates their experiences to include Nine Key Focus Points that they feel embody their mission to provide attendees with what they want most when attending workshops; seeking growth or expertise; working with a mentor; or accessing a supportive community. These points are:
Collaboration over competition.
Open gates to knowledge.
Empowerment of women photographers.
Expansion of technical expertise and creativity.
A safe environment in which to learn and create.
Community.
Real world business skills.
Support to overcome barriers and obstacles.
The ability to use the images you make during the event.
“It doesn’t matter if you just picked up your first camera today or you’re a seasoned pro — we have an immersive experience awaiting you,” says Phyllis Burchett.
There are several opportunities for you to join the Cowgirls with Cameras at a Western and Equine Photography Retreat in 2024 and 2025.
Cottonwood Guest Ranch
August 22-27, 2024, Wells, Nevada | $3950
This learning intensive experience is set against the rugged backdrop of the Nevada high country which is unique and beautiful. The Cottonwood Guest Ranch is a multi-generational working horse and cattle ranch that offers an authentic look at the ranching lifestyle. This experience is a perfect mix of shooting, education, and relaxation time. Accommodations are in a cozy lodge and the home cooked food will soothe both your hunger and your soul. “The Cottonwood Ranch Immersive Photography Experience was an unforgettable experience that provided the perfect balance of learning, relaxation, and adventure. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is passionate about ranch/equine photography and looking to improve their skills in a beautiful and inspiring setting,” says former attendee Jackie Harris.
You can expect image opportunities to include: horses, both loose in a herd and under saddle at work on the ranch; working dogs; cattle; mountain, corral, and open pasture back drops; action and portrait set-ups; both adults and children as models.
Trapper’s Lake Lodge Photographer’s Adventure
September 29-October 2, Meeker, Colorado | $2500
If you have a heart seeking adventure, this experience is for you. The setting is autumn in the breathtaking Flat Top Wilderness of Colorado during peak fall color season. The host facility for this event is the historic Trapper’s Lake Lodge which offers shared cabin accommodations. Meals are provided. This event also includes several shooting locations on working family ranches in the area. “From the moment I arrived on my scouting trip to this location, I was mesmerized by the beauty of the area,” says Kimberly Beer.
Image opportunities at this event include: horses and riders in rugged mountain scenery; working cowboys and cowgirls with a herd of horses and cattle; cowboy and cowgirl portraits; adults and kids as models; working dogs; and magical fall color.
Horses in the Snow Photographer’s Getaway at C Lazy U Ranch
February 26-March 2, 2025, Granby, Colorado | $4500
“We had been seeking a fantastic winter location for a long time and we found it at C Lazy U!” says Cara Taylor Swift. The host location for this Getaway is a five star resort complete with cozy cabin accommodations, winter activities, horseback riding, and chef prepared meals included.
“The resort was very comfortable, and the level of service was like none other I have EVER experienced. The dining experiences – no, they were not just meals – were truly first rate!! I got images I will treasure forever, made friends that will last forever and will consider Cowgirls with Cameras in my future plans. I’d also like to point out that as a man on a “Cowgirls” event – I was made to feel welcome and just another participant – everyone was very friendly and nice. It was the experience I was after – horses in snow are so special to me. If you are a photographer with an interest in fascinating and challenging photography – I would say this is the ticket!” says Tim Gillespie who attended this event in February, 2024.
At this experience you can expect: a large herd of loose horses in the snow; riding in the snow; cowgirls and cowboys; portraits and action setups; plus the daily jingle of over 200 head of horses both in and out of the pasture.
You can find out more information on these and other Cowgirls with Cameras events on their website at CowgirlswithCameras.com. The trio also hosts a podcast called Cowgirls with Cameras which is available on most major podcast networks including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Please read EquuStyle Art & Travel's Disclaimer https://www.equustyle.com/disclaimer
EquuStyle Art & Travel magazine thanks Kimberly Beer, Co-Founder Cowgirls with Cameras for writing an excellent article and the sharing photographs from Phyllis Burchett, Kimberly Beer, and Cara Taylor Swilft.
All images Copyright Cowgirls with Cameras -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Cowgirls with Cameras.
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