The Untamed Lens: Goshen County Photographer Explores Life Beyond the Pavement

What started as a straightforward pastime has evolved into a rewarding and motivating profession for Teresa Milner, the proprietor of Dirt Road Wife Photography.

“Back in middle school, I got my first camera. I took it everywhere and adored snapping photos of all my show animals,” Teresa recounts.

A resident of Cheyenne, Teresa was raised within the 4-H and FFA communities, exhibiting livestock and developing a profound respect for the beauty inherent in agricultural life. She has since committed herself to documenting significant moments within the Goshen County community.

Teresa and her family relocated to Goshen County more than a decade ago due to her husband’s occupation.

Her spouse Ben serves as the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) bird farm coordinator for the Downer Bird Farm, where they reside and nurture their daughter Emily.

Prior to launching her thrilling career as a photographer, which officially commenced in 2017, Teresa relished her role with the WGFD in public relations and natural resource management.

Versatile

Teresa identifies as a wife, mother, photographer, and part-time pheasant handler, with a strong devotion to her family, friends, and Wyoming.

A graduate from the University of Wyoming, she achieved a degree in agricultural communications in 1999 yet is predominantly a self-taught photographer.

She refined her craftsmanship through some collegiate classes and numerous years of photography, exploring wildlife photography and family portraits, continually aiming for the ideal shot.

“I have ventured into various styles and forms of photography, but I wanted to elevate my skills, so I immersed myself in every book and YouTube tutorial I could find,” she shares. “Soon, friends and family began requesting me to capture their images and even offered to compensate me for my work. Before I realized it, an opportunity emerged, and I discovered that I had a legitimate business.”

Teresa has guided her business by documenting unforgettable moments as a community and school photographer.

“I cherish the artistic aspect of photography and the relationships I form with my subjects. It’s a delightful way to connect with people, and I enjoy going out and expressing my creativity while sharing it with them,” Teresa comments.

Over the past decade, Teresa has traversed the dirt roads of southeast Wyoming and western Nebraska.

When she isn’t assisting her husband in breeding pheasants or aiding her daughter with 4-H tasks, she can be found in local schools, taking photos of students and athletic events.

Teresa specializes in senior portraits, county fairs, rodeo photography, and sports photos for schools and clubs.

Event photography

“My dad announced slack at Cheyenne Frontier Days, and being among the group of photographers this year has been an immense honor,” she reflects.

“I was merely a girl passionate about horses and animals, and my love for agriculture flourished when I joined FFA and 4-H,” she adds.

As time has passed, her commitment to FFA has only intensified, as she has taken on roles including executive secretary, official organization photographer, and public relations coordinator for Wyoming.

Teresa’s stunning photographs have been chosen for the Wyoming Department of Agriculture’s Mediation Program annual calendar and are showcased in various governmental establishments and businesses throughout Goshen County.

Her images gracefully depict the landscapes, farms, and everyday life of the area, and they have also been featured in multiple local magazines, highlighting her skill and the allure of the community.

For additional details, visit dirtroadwifephotography.com or e-mail teresa@dirtroadwifephotography.com to arrange a personal consultation.

Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Direct your feedback regarding this article to roundup@wylr.net.