Calgary Stampede Photoshoot; Capturing Love Amidst the chaos

A couple kissing during golden hour in front of a ferris wheel at the Calgary Stampede

As a photographer, every shoot presents a unique challenge and opportunity to capture moments that tell a story. I recently did a model call to photograph a couple amidst the vibrant chaos of the Calgary Stampede. Known for its bustling crowds, midway rides, and rodeo, the Stampede is a photographer’s dream and a logistical puzzle. But it’s been my dream to capture a Calgary Stampede photoshoot during this ten-day event for years, and I was excited to make it happen finally.

Embracing the Challenge

The day was one of the hottest yet this summer, a nice 31 degrees Celsius. Despite the sweat-inducing weather and navigating hundreds of enthusiastic visitors, I focused on creating fun and vibrant images that captured the experience that so many Calgarians share. The challenge was to find moments of intimacy and connection amidst the crowds and harness the energy and excitement of the Stampede itself.

black and white photo of a couple kissing in front of a moving carousel at the calgary stampede

Patience is Key

Amidst the swirling sea of cowboy hats and carnival lights, Erin and Drew, the couple I was photographing, were more than happy to follow all my ideas. Their cooperation and patience in adapting to the chaotic environment, where people veered in and out of our shots, was truly appreciated. For all the photos with motion, we stood by the rides, waited for the onboarding process and safety checks to complete, and shot quickly before the short ride ended. Sometimes this took more than one try, but their understanding and willingness to make the shots perfect was worth it in the end.

couple feeding each other blue cotton candy in front of a midway food cart at the Calgary stampede

All Worth It

A Calgary Stampede photoshoot was more than just capturing beautiful images; it was about documenting a chapter in their love story against a backdrop of excitement and tradition. Despite the heat and the crowds, we managed to create a collection of photographs that not only showcased their love but also celebrated the unique energy of this iconic event. As a photographer, these moments remind me why I love what I do – capturing love and life in all its vibrancy and authenticity.

If you’d like to book a fun photoshoot like this one, send me a message and let’s getting planning!

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