When I decided to photograph a rodeo that was coming to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, I ended up coming across a number of Miss Rodeo pageant winners that were part of the show. Prior to this, I didn’t know Ms. Rodeo existed! As it turned out, winners from South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota were all in attendance, and I ended up spending several hours photographing them alongside the rodeo itself. The contestants are judged in three main areas, Appearance, Horsemanship, and Personality. Judges observe the contestants as they demonstrate their horsemanship skills, including patterns, rail work, presenting a flag, and making a queen's run. Their speaking skills are judged with the presentation of a prepared speech, and the answering of impromptu questions. I’m looking to do a more in-depth story with the 2018 Miss Rodeo Minnesota winner, who “travels the state and the nation to promote Minnesota's rich western heritage, Minnesota's 12 PRCA rodeos, and proud agricultural roots.”