Tyler Gun Works

Designing a look and feel for sixgun master Bobby Tyler's webite www.tylergunworks.com and photographing functional works of art.

While doing a video shoot for Brownells with then cover boy Bobby Tyler, I was introduced to some truly amazing revolvers. I had never really cared for revolvers before that, but the day I held that color-cased flat-top Ruger Blackhawk in 44 special with the number five grip frame and ivory grips, I was in love.

“I had never really cared for revolvers before that, but the day I held that color-cased flat-top Ruger Blackhawk in 44 special with the number five grip frame clad in ivory grips, I was in love.”

Over dinner that night while talking about sixgun greats, I told Bobby that I would love to photograph some of his masterful wheelguns. After showing him some work on my phone, we agreed to partner on some photos. From that point on I am not sure a week hasn't gone by with out talking to my friend Bobby Tyler.

Designing A Visual Brand

A few weeks after the completion of the videos, Bobby reached out and told me he was having a new website built and needed some good photography to fill it with and wondered if I would be interested. I jumped at the chance to create modern western style images.

The goal was this, to embody the spirit of the west and make images that showcase the brilliant work of Tyler Gun Works. From Colts Pythons to Ruger Blackhawks to Republic Forge 1911's every type of gun was represented with all the finishes and touches.

The challenge was how to create a cohesive portfolio with so many genres represented and of course photographing mirror like steel with extensive engraving.

To prepare I began to read everything I could from gun writers, Bobby had mentioned during the videos for Brownells. Unfortunately Elmer Keith and Skeeter Skelton's writings aren't available at most local libraries so thank goodness to Dark Canyon. I read everything I possibly could while watching a western each night before bed. I even started a steady regiment of old western music.

I tried to create a backstory for each photo while trying to create a captivating image crafted for each page of the website. Working with Bobby and Paige to understand what the customer would look for in each section, we collaborated and revised until we got it perfect.

In all it took a month from beginning to end. Though it was a lot of work, I found a love for custom revolvers and a new client I call a true friend. Someone truly fit to ride the river with. Thanks Bobby and Paige for this great opportunity to put a look to your phenomenal work.

#Sixguns #Wheelguns #Gunphotography #Creativedirection #Americancraftsmanship