Cowboys in Virginia

CONTEXT

Kyle LaFerriere was commissioned by Virginia Living Magazine to document the disappearing culture of cowboys in Virginia. The editorial assignment explored the lives of modern-day cowboys who continue to uphold a fading tradition deeply rooted in the state’s agricultural heritage. This was one of Kyle's favorite editorial assignments.

APPROACH

Over the course of three days, Kyle photographed a children’s goat-roping event, a local rodeo,
and two cowboys tending to a sick cow on a remote Virginia farm. Each moment offered an
intimate look into the toughness, compassion, and authenticity that define this small but resilient
community. Through his lens, Kyle sought to honor not only their work but also the enduring
spirit of those who keep this lifestyle alive against the odds.

RESULTS

One of the images from this project was selected as the cover of Virginia Living Magazine
Kyle’s favorite cover to date. The feature beautifully captured the essence of rural Virginia and
the quiet strength of its people, serving as both a tribute and a time capsule of a vanishing way of
life. This assignment exemplifies Kyle’s ability to merge storytelling and artistry, creating editorial
imagery that connects deeply with audiences while celebrating the human stories that define the
Commonwealth.