"It’s not dying I’m talking about, it’s living."

Gus McCrae - Lonesome Dove

About the Photographer

Who is Blake Monroe?

Hi, I’m Blake Monroe, a rodeo photographer with a deep passion for the Western way of life.

Although I didn’t grow up immersed in rodeo, my roots run deep in rural Indiana. I was raised in the cornfields of Graysville, where my love for animals and the outdoors shaped who I am today. I was actively involved in FFA throughout high school and spent eight years as a proud member of 4-H. Those experiences laid the foundation for the life I always dreamed of—one connected to the land, community, and Western tradition.

After high school, I was blessed with the opportunity to step into the world of rodeo, thanks to an amazing family who welcomed me in and helped me get started. I competed in steer wrestling at small county fairs and unsanctioned rodeos for several years. While injuries eventually brought that chapter to a close, my love for rodeo never faded.

In fact, that passion led me to pick up a camera—something I had always been drawn to, especially watching my late aunt express her creativity through photography. At the end of 2022, I decided to follow in her footsteps and go all in on my dream of starting a rodeo photography business.

Since then, rodeo photography has become one of the greatest blessings of my life. It’s not just a job—it’s a way for me to stay close to the sport I love, connect with incredible people, and preserve the grit, beauty, and spirit of the Western lifestyle through my lens.

There’s no better feeling than arriving at a rodeo and having contestants say they’re excited to see me there—it’s moments like that which remind me why I do what I do.

Now in my third full year photographing rodeos, I’m more excited than ever to continue this journey. Be sure to check out my upcoming schedule—I’d love to meet you at a rodeo soon!

Thank you all for your support. I truly appreciate it and feel incredibly grateful to be living this dream. God Bless you.