Happy Anniversary, Western Horseman!

One of the WH staff trail rides.

In 2010, when I started as an assistant editor at Western Horseman, the magazine was gearing up for the 2011 75th Anniversary. It allowed me the opportunity to dive into the magazine’s history, learning of its start on the Tarantula Ranch in California, moving to Colorado, and the many, many topics covered in the 75 years of publishing. I was the lucky staffer to interview the first female editor, Pat Close, as well as help facilitate articles about the magazine’s history.

Now, in 2026, the magazine is celebrating its 90th Anniversary. Once again, I have the opportunity to be part of the celebratory issues. Reconnecting with friends and fellow staffers, starting with the “From the Lens” with my publisher, Darrell Dodds.

Darrell shared his memorable or favorite images from his many years helming WH. For some, I was with him, holding a flash, doing the interview while he did the photo, and trying to glean any bit of wisdom or photography knowledge I could. Darrell was my travel partner to South Dakota and to California, a couple of times. He was a safety net, asking a question that helped my interview; taking a photo far, far more superior than my baby editor skills could fathom. As the Randy Rogers lyric goes: “I learned more from these cities than I ever did in class,” and that is the truth. The road was a great teacher.

Darrell Dodds shooting former Editor Pat Close in Colorado. (that is my shadow!)

The January issue also included a “Backcountry” article where I caught up with Ben Masters. As the assistant editor I oversaw the general WH email, and Ben sent in an idea to write about the cross-country trip he and his friends did in 2011. After vetting him, and the trip, the story became our first collaboration, “Three for the Trail.” Ben came back to WH to be part of “Unbranded,” another cross-country trek that included using Mustangs adopted and trained by Ben and friends. The documentary was a stepping stone into Ben’s career today, with Fin & Fur Films, creating documentaries about nature and the West. It was fun to visit withi him for the article.

Baby editor Kate at the old WH Colorado Springs office in 2011.

The January issue allowed me to go down the memory trail of many of the good times had working for WH. From staff trail rides, to the first issue I had a byline in, to the first feature I wrote (thanks John Willemsa) to the many, many friends made on the road. I can’t wait to keep the memory train rolling for 2026!

Check out westernhorseman.com.

Allow me to reintroduce myself!

Hi, I'm Kate, your Western Lifestyle Storyteller! It dawned on me that though I’ve had this website for several years, and this blog since January, I haven’t truly introduced myself. Better late than never! I am chalking it up to my love of being behind the camera, telling other people’s stories and sharing their lives, horses and adventures.

Yet, just like we wrote in the recent Freelance Remuda guest blog we posted about personal promotion, people want to know who is working with them to create content. This is especially true in the horse industry. With that in mind, here are 5 questions with, well, me!

How did you get started in equine media, and what has your journey looked like since 2010?

My career in equine media began in 2010, when I first picked up a camera and pen to capture the stories behind horses and their people. Since then, I’ve worn many hats—equine photographer, magazine editor, social media manager, and content creator. Each role has given me a deeper understanding of what it takes to connect audiences to the equine lifestyle in an authentic, compelling way.

What makes equine media different from other types of photography and content creation?

Capturing horses is more than just pointing a camera—it’s about timing, patience, and knowing how to highlight movement, expression, and conformation. My years of experience in the industry mean I understand what trainers, breeders, and riders want to see, and how to deliver photos and media that make an impact while staying true to the animal.

How has the equine media industry changed since you began?

In 2010, the industry leaned heavily on magazines and long-form writing. Today, clients are competing for attention in a fast-paced, digital-first world. Short videos, reels, and social media strategy have become just as important as traditional photography and editorial. Because I’ve worked on both sides—print and digital—I bridge the gap between timeless storytelling and modern marketing.

Why should clients invest in professional equine media instead of DIY content?

A smartphone photo can capture a moment, but professional media captures a memory—and sells a story. Whether you’re marketing a $100,000 prospect, promoting your ranch, or creating content to grow your brand online, professional equine media builds trust, grabs attention, and sets you apart from the competition.

What can clients expect when working with you?

My goal is to make every client feel confident and cared for. From the first conversation to the final delivery, I focus on capturing your vision in a way that’s polished, professional, and true to your brand. You can expect clear communication, attention to detail, and content that’s ready to share—whether in a magazine, on social media, or as part of your personal memories.

Head over to my portfolio and check out some of the tales I’ve told in print media!