Gibson Ranch Dugout

I have never been to a cowboy dugout before. Just so happens, they don't all look like this. Most of them are dug into the side of a hill or mountain and are pretty rough-looking. This one, on Mike Gibson's ranch is the Taj Mahal of all cowboy dugouts. It was such a wonderful opportunity to get to see such beautiful country and be in the company I was in.

While we waited for everyone to get back to the dugout, Sylinda and I got dinner together. Once it was on the fire, the sun was absolutely perfect in the sky, so I grabbed my camera and took a few shots around the dugout of the beautiful country that surrounded us. Breathtaking.


These last two shots are of the dugout itself. ISO 800, f-8, 30 seconds.

Photo Expedition and the Rattlesnake

The Badlands Wildlife Expedition put on by Wyman Meinzer allows people to come into Wyman's backyard, which includes several surrounding ranches, and photograph some of the most beautiful country in West Texas. They experience true untamed wildlife - bobcats, coyotes, and rattlesnakes - and learn how to call in the predators. It is an absolutely incredible experience, one I encourage anyone who has the time to go on. It is open to photographers and non-photographers alike. Wyman will not only teach you about photography and present you with incredible opportunities, but he will allow you to see beauties of life many often pass by without realization or notice.

A few members of the expedition were a bit wary when it came to photographing the rattlesnake, but Wyman's constant and patient encouragement, allowed the fear to slip away and some amazing photographs to be made. It was such a thrilling opportunity to witness this. On the Junction adventure, I had my first opportunity to be face-to-face with a rattlesnake and now I feel like an old pro at it. It is an understanding between photographer and snake. No quick movements. Relax. Breathe. Be patient. Standing on the side and watching Wyman work with and encourage and advise these groups of people as they approached the snake with their preconceived ideas and hesitations was absolutely thrilling. I don't think there was a moment I was not smiling.

This post is a combination of the first two expeditions put on by Wyman and the people who helped make them so memorable.