The National Western Stock Show (NWSS) is one of Denver’s most iconic annual events, and it’s easy to see why. Every January, for a full 16 days, the city comes alive with livestock, rodeos, and a celebration of Western heritage like no other. This year, I had the privilege of being part of the action, working as an event photographer to capture this celebration. From the food and beverage staff to the hardworking teams behind the scenes, and a few high-energy shots from the Pro Rodeo, my experience at the Stock Show was a dream.

One of the highlights of my trip was photographing the wide variety of food, drinks, and merchandise that represent the culture of the event. But it wasn’t just about the tasty bites or the impressive display of western goods; it was about showcasing the people who make the National Western Stock Show truly come alive. Being behind the camera, it was a chance to honor their hard work and dedication, to frame the moments that are often unnoticed but are so critical to the event's success.

A Taste of the Best: Food and Beverage at NWSS

The food and beverage operations at the National Western Stock Show are nothing short of impressive. As an event photographer, I got a front-row seat to the logistics that make it all come together. The food and beverage teams are a mix of local talent and specialists flown in from all over the country. These bartenders, chefs, servers, and managers create an atmosphere where taste and tradition collide.

As you can imagine, the scale of the Stock Show’s food program is massive. There are dozens of food options, each offering a unique experience. From classic BBQ fare to gourmet meats and sit-down options, each dish is a celebration of Western flavors. What stood out to me, though, was how the food and beverage teams were able to blend regional specialties with a sense of high-end hospitality. This wasn’t just about serving food; it was about crafting an experience for attendees that paid homage to the culture while delivering a sense of sophistication.

Behind the scenes, there is an army of staff working tirelessly to ensure everything runs smoothly. I had the chance to photograph many of these team members as they went about their work—whether it was bartenders shaking up cocktails or chefs perfecting their dishes. It was fascinating to see how much effort went into each dish and drink, and how the teams maintained such a high standard of service throughout the long event. These are the unsung heroes who make every bite and sip an unforgettable part of the National Western experience.

The Importance of Cultural Representation

As a photographer, my job goes beyond just snapping a picture. It’s about telling a story, capturing the moment, and highlighting the culture and people that make events like the National Western Stock Show a Denver staple. This event is more than just livestock and rodeos; it’s about preserving and sharing the traditions that shape the Western way of life.

One of my favorite aspects of working this was being able to capture the people who represent the spirit of the event where each individual’s story added a layer to the overall narrative of the event. Every photo I took served to showcase the culture—one that honors hard work, craftsmanship, and community.

There’s something truly special about photographing people in their element, especially when they’re engaged in something they’re passionate about. During my time at the Stock Show, I had the opportunity to capture these moments, creating images that reflect not just the actions but the fun that these individuals have for their work. It’s this sense of cultural pride that makes the National Western Stock Show what it is.

Updating Staff Headshots

With so many moving parts at the National Western Stock Show, it’s important to keep things organized and professional, and that’s where I came in to help with staff headshots. These headshots were more than just standard business photos—they’re meant for internal identification badges, member profiles, and even LinkedIn updates for the staff who worked behind the scenes.

In an event of this scale, it’s essential for everyone to be easily identifiable and maintain a level of professionalism. But beyond that, updating these headshots also served to give the staff a sense of recognition and pride. These were the faces of people who were working long hours, managing high-stress situations, and contributing to the success of one of the largest events in Denver. It was an honor to photograph these individuals in a setting that highlighted their skills and expertise, giving them the recognition they deserve.

The End of an Era: A Memorable Send-Off at the Club

One of the standout moments of the event was the farewell party held at the Club. With the end of the Club as we know it, the staff threw an unforgettable party that was as much a celebration of the past as it was of the future. The party was the perfect way to mark the conclusion of an era, and it featured specialty cuts of meat, VIP guests, and even a champagne toast. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and excitement—everyone was there to celebrate the success of the Stock Show and to enjoy the company of friends.

As a photographer, I made sure to capture the spirit of this gathering—the laughter, the toasts, and the heartfelt conversations. The images I took that afternoon weren’t just about the food and drink (though those were certainly memorable), but about the people who had spent years building a community around this event. The farewell party was a moment of gratitude, recognition, and new beginnings.

The Best 16 Days in January: A Photographer’s Reflection

Reflecting on my time at the National Western Stock Show, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a unique and vibrant event. The NWSS truly lives up to its reputation as the best 16 days in January. From the exciting Pro Rodeo action to the incredible food, culture, and the people who make it all happen, every day at the Stock Show offered something new to photograph and experience.

But what stood out the most to me was the sense of community that was a part of every aspect of the event. Whether it was the retail teams, the food and beverage specialists, or the attendees, everyone came together to celebrate something bigger than just an event—they were celebrating a way of life, a culture, and a legacy that has been passed down through generations.

As a photographer, it’s rare to be able to capture an event that is so rich in culture and tradition. The National Western Stock Show allowed me to do just that, and I feel fortunate to have had the chance to contribute to telling the story of this incredible event. It’s an experience I won’t soon forget.

Looking ahead, I’m already excited for next year’s Stock Show anniversary year. I know it will bring new faces, new traditions, and new stories to capture. But for now, I’ll cherish the memories of the best 16 days in January, knowing I had a front-row seat to an event that celebrates the people and cultures that define the West. -SM