Cowboys and their lifestyles portrayed in photographs

For 10 years I lived with and worked around cowboys. The ranch life, rodeos, horses, cowboy hats, boots, and gear, and the work was all enjoyable. Being born and raised on a farm my first 18 years of life, rural life came natural to me. In my perspective, the difference between a farmer and a rancher is by their homestead, not their beliefs or work ethics. Farmers generally like large, well kept houses, barns, and crop land. Ranchers tend to favor the wide open spaces of land with a comfortable cabin to call home. Experiencing both lifestyles, my camera would almost always be with me so as to capture action, relaxation, or just a brief moment. The true cowboy lives a different way of life no doubt. So in tuned to the outdoor work, their livestock, working from sun up to sun down, and a life of authenticity. There is a freedom in working with your beliefs, setting your schedule to what nature has in needs. A 24 hour commitment, yet leisure in the work and through out the day. There are many different kinds of cowboys; ranchers, rodeo cowboys, saddle makers, farrier, horseman, trail guides, and so many more. Some just like to wear the hats and boots as a wishing statement! My photos have captured a variety at their work. And which ever they may be, I can relate to, respect, and love them all.