“Tools of the Trade” was created by Roy Nierdieck of Lakeway, Texas. This still life photograph pays tribute to the legendary Texas Rangers through a carefully curated collection of historic weaponry. The composition features a Winchester M1873 lever action rifle, a Colt M1873 Peacemaker pistol, a Bowie-style knife, a classic saddle adorned with gleaming spurs and, of course, the iconic Texas Ranger badge made from a Mexican Cinco Peso coin. Each element is meticulously arranged to honor the rugged spirit and storied history of the Texas Rangers, with the textures and details of these historical pieces coming alive under the natural light.
Captured with the Nikon Z8 camera and Nikkor Z MC 105mm lens, the image leverages the subtle nuances of natural lighting to highlight the intricate details of each item. The use of Photoshop curves adjustment layers enhances the overall impact by fine-tuning the lighting and contrast, bringing a dramatic depth to the scene while maintaining a timeless authenticity. This technical precision not only underscores the historical significance of the artifacts but also showcases the photographer’s adeptness at merging historical reverence with modern photographic techniques. The image also made the round of Sweet Sixteen and received a Silver Medal at the 2024 IPC competition.
