Camblin captures stories behind the lens

Inspired by heritage and the enthusiasm to create visual stories, Chelsee Camblin was determined to open Chelsee Camblin Photography in 2018.

This business venture allowed Camblin to intertwine her passion for photography, ranching and animals, as she captured heartfelt and beautiful visual stories from behind the lens.

Camblin is a fourth-generation rancher from Maybell, Colo. and still calls the family homestead home. When she is not on the road snapping pictures, Camblin can be found at the ranch helping her family run a stocker operation.

As a livestock photographer, Camblin strives to showcase her focal points’ best attributes and the environment, whether in the arena, the ring or the pasture.

Livestock photographers are an integral piece of the livestock industry as more and more producers are marketing online, creating video sales and publishing sale catalogs.

Camblin stated, “Knowing how to get the shot set up and make it look good is the key.”

Following a passion

Camblin’s passion for photography dates back to when she took a photography class in fifth grade and started taking pictures of her 4-H show steers. 

Since then, her passion for photography has grown, and she continues to take pictures of livestock, ranches and Western events. 

Camblin said, “You have to find your ‘why,’ and you can’t lose track of it. The ‘why’ is the important part of life. I was once told the worst thing anyone can say is no and you will get a lot of no’s in life, but move on. It’s worth the hard work. Follow your passion.”

“I’ve tried taking different types of pictures, but I always come back to livestock,” she continued. “I am a cattle kid through and through. Cows are too cute.”

Today, Camblin spends her time focusing on various ways to help local producers – from production sales to livestock shows – and capture their Western heritage. 

“I love hearing the stories behind all of the faces,” she noted. “I love being out with my clients, riding side by side, on or off a horse, and learning about the rich history behind the land and the person.”

Staying busy

Camblin explained the majority of her work is focused on taking livestock photos for producers and county fairs. In fact, she has been capturing the spirit of the Moffat County Fair, held in Craig, Colo., for the past two years, as well as many other community events including numerous other county fairs and 4-H club events.

“I have a variety of photography options individuals can choose from, including graphic design, content creation and livestock videos,” Camblin stated. “I enjoy traveling and staying busy capturing rodeos, livestock events and helping producers market their stock.”

On top of her usual work, Camblin also noted she does some random projects from time to time, like taking pictures of real estate and doing other commercial work as well.

Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.