Posted by Click Thompson of Arlington, Texas, is a PRCA rodeo photographer and storyteller.
Photo by Christopher Thompson
His lens captured music concerts for many years, and he worked for the U.S. Department of Defense while living in Virginia. But in 2010 after attending a PBR event, Click found an art subject that truly captivated him. Fast forward 11 years and Click is the official photographer of the 2021 National Finals Steer Roping in Mulvane, Kansas. His name is also on the ballot for PRCA Photographer of the Year. Whatever the event, he is mindful of the impact his images have on the rodeo world. “We have to be ambassadors and cognizant of what people see. My goal for the (National Steer Roping) Finals is showing the ability of the riders and horses, and the art of it.
during the fourth Round of Pikes Peak or Bust in Colorado Springs, Co on 7.17.2021. Photo by Christopher Thompson 
Cory Solomon during the Ellis County Livestock Show and Rodeo on 3/27/2021 in Waxahachie, TX. Photo by Christopher Thompson 
Round 1 of Cheyenne Frontier Days in Cheyenne, WY on 7.22.2021. Photo by Christopher Thompson
“Because I’m so new to it (rodeo), there’s things I don’t overlook. You see things that people who have been in it for years may miss. I’m always trying to find a new image or capture someone a bit differently. I always want to showcase the people and athletes.”
Click learned the western community’s love of swapping tales early on, and he wants his images to help record the rodeo history of his time. “I think it’s important to leave a legacy and still be doing work even after you’re gone. Rodeo to me is definitely leaving a legacy, especially as an African American, and showing that there is a place in our industry for people of color. I think that is what will allow the rodeo industry to have longevity is to have new faces and ideas, and continue to grow.”
To view more of Christoper’s work click here: http://www.clickthompson.com
About the Author
Lillian Landreth is a freelance writer and editor. She particularly enjoys writing about rodeo and the extraordinary people and animals who make the lifestyle fascinating. The author of more than 1,000 stories, her writing has appeared in the Rodeo News; The Ketchpen, published by the Rodeo Historical Society and National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; and local newspapers. She is also working on her first novel. When she’s not writing, Lily enjoys riding with the Snake River Stampeders night light drill team, coaching the EhCapa Bareback Riders, a PRCA specialty act, and teaching horseback riding lessons. She makes her home in Southwest Idaho with her entrepreneurial husband, their dog, horse, and cows.
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