Landscape scenes, rodeo action inspire local photographer’s images

Photographer and Ak-Chin Indian Community member Gabe Lopez enjoys capturing landscape scenes and rodeo action through his lens. Gabe’s work is currently displayed at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino and the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle.
Intrigued by photos from National Geographic magazines, Gabe became interested in photography when he was in grade school. He enjoys the idea of the story behind the photo, especially the stories of indigenous people.
Gabe also credits photography as therapy for him, taking him away from everyday life. “Being out in the elements is always refreshing and rejuvenating,” Gabe said. “I also think it helps me in my everyday life, by not being narrow-minded and looking at the whole picture.”
His personal history is one reason why Gabe enjoys taking photos of landscapes and rodeo events. “I grew up on the Ak-Chin Indian Community, and I’ve seen many sunrises and sunsets,” Gabe said. “Every one of them is unique. My rodeo photos are because I’ve been a rodeo contestant, and I recognize the determination and the physical and mental ability from rider and animal.”
Gabe notes his uncle, Alonzo Lopez, as his first inspiration. His uncle was an artist, photographer, and poet who showed Gabe his drawings. This later encouraged Gabe to take first drawing and then photography. As a youngster, Gabe almost always had a camera with him, whether at Little League games or while roaming his neighborhood. Gabe also credits his high school art teacher, Mrs. Cecile Shaw, who suggested he take a photography class.

Smithsonian Air and Space Museum photographer Eric Long taught a photo workshop at the Him-Dak Eco Museum, where he met Gabe. After reviewing his photos, Long encouraged Gabe to get serious about photography. Gabe also found inspiration from longtime friend Ric Anderson, 2016 recipient of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Excellence in Rodeo Photography. The two friends have enjoyed photographing and following rodeo events together.
While Gabe likes to get an idea of an image in his head before he starts taking photos, things don’t always go as expected in photography. Sometimes, this works out for the best, according to Gabe. “You see the image in your mind, capture the image and produce the image,” he says. “Sometimes, you get the best images when things don’t quite work out as you planned.”