Rodeo Boys

Jack Sorokin

2024 — North Carolina, USA

About this series

Rodeo Boys is a long-term documentary project I created in Marshall, North Carolina, capturing the heart of the local rodeo culture. This work emerged from my years living in Marshall, where I was immersed in the rhythms of the town and its vibrant community. The documentary focuses exclusively on the young participants during their time at the rodeo, portraying the raw intensity of their experiences in the arena.
Through Rodeo Boys, I aimed to reveal the passion, camaraderie, and the contrasting emotions that define these young riders and their families. Each frame reflects not only the physicality and risks inherent in the sport but also the nuanced tensions between camaraderie and fear, success and failure, toughness and tenderness. The project captures moments of grit, vulnerability, and triumph, painting an intimate portrait of a subculture often overlooked.
My approach was built on trust and familiarity, developed through long-term relationships and countless days spent at the rodeo. I strived to highlight the individuality of each subject while capturing the collective spirit that binds them.
Rodeo Boys represents more than an exploration of sport; it’s a testament to community, identity, and the emotional landscape of finding purpose through challenge. This project continues to resonate as a significant chapter in my commitment to documenting stories that reveal the strength of local heritage and human connection.

Photographer: Jack Sorokin
Nationality: American
Based in: New York City, USA
Website: www.jacksorokin.com
Instagram: @jacksorokinphoto

Based in Brooklyn, New York, Jack Sorokin is a photographer and filmmaker known for capturing authentic stories with a focus on connection, community, and the subtle moments that reveal human resilience. With a BFA in Photography from the Maryland Institute College of Art, Jack has developed a nuanced approach that blends fine art with journalistic inquiry.
Jack’s career includes collaborations with esteemed clients such as The New York Times, TIME Magazine, ProPublica, and Bon Appétit, among others. His editorial and commercial work has appeared in renowned publications and campaigns, showcasing his versatility and commitment to impactful storytelling. Recognized for his thoughtful documentation and visual storytelling, Jack’s work continues to highlight resilience, identity, and the rich narratives found in everyday life.