5.11.2010

Yamsi Rules // gerda & co.


It was an amazing feeling walking onto Yamsi Ranch in Klamath Falls a few weeks ago. I was on assignment to shoot a portrait of the family who brings country natural beef to Burgerville's tasty meals, but this was unlike any other family, location, or assignment that I've had before. Imagine miles and miles of gorgeous trees, grazing cows, sleek riverbeds, playing dogs, galloping horses, and swallows dipping in and out of the huge, rustic barn- an actual wildlife sanctuary. Gerda, the 80 year old matriarch of the family, couldn't be more excited about Yamsi Ranch's 100th birthday next year and was gracious enough to give us a tour of their ranch and home. It would be an understatement to say that Yamsi Ranch is a family affair, as the majority of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren live on or near the ranch and are involved in it somehow.

The main house feels like a tribute to Gerda and her life on the ranch... photos and paintings of her hang everywhere, a sweet reminder of of how much everyone loves and respects her. We saw stacks of National Geographics dating back to the 20s, a dining room with vines crawling all over the ceiling, and a sweet plaque that lists all of the Yamsi Rules, all of them hilarious. Just as we were leaving the ranch, we found a small dog on the side of the road and brought it back to the ranch, only to learn that dogs are often left stranded by their owners in the forest, left to fend for themselves. The little guy looked like some sort of rat terrier mix, and could not have been sweeter or better behaved. As we drove away, I had the feeling they would adopt him into their pack of adorable mutts. I named him Yamsi. They named him Kelty. :)

















9 comments:

Anonymous said...

Wow, this place looks AMAZING - like a window into another era! She looks like a formidable woman!
I'm completely jealous and want to go live there when I grow up :-)

xo

Laura

Katie said...

So beautiful Kel! I would totally eat meat that came from that place! btw.. I'm aching to see my babies steepstreet-ized! just saying... no pressure....

The Weaver House said...

Yeah Kel, no pressure.... but I can't wait either! Love these photos. What a trip that was! So glad you let us tag along.

Alexandria said...

Your photography skills are incredible. It must help when the place and the family you are capturing are beautiful. I love the Yamsi list! So fun.

Sarah Neal Design & Photography said...

So awesome Kelty. Love the interior of that barn. Would have loved to tag along for that one myself! Nice place to raise a family. :)

Miss Moore said...

I love the interior shots; great use of lighting!

Lisa Jane said...

beautiful.

Anonymous said...

Kelty, I simply do not understand how your photography can be so beautiful - EVERYWHERE. Office? lovely. Forest? wonderful. Ranch? incredible. Urban street? fabulous. Boudoir or crib? unforgettable. You are a wonder!

Melina
Studio Salvatore
Chelsea (NYC)

Unknown said...

KELTY!! i reeeally like these... fantastic... different from some of your usual work.. they make me want to go on vacation there! I love them!