I’m Sam Rouse, a photographer based in Abilene, Texas, focused on capturing real, unscripted moments in sports.

After graduating high school, I served four years in the United States Marine Corps as an infantryman. That experience shaped the way I approach photography today—focused, disciplined, and always ready to capture the moment as it happens.

My interest in photography started in high school, but it wasn’t until years later—when my wife, Amanda, gave me my first real camera—that it truly took hold. I initially focused on macro and wildlife photography, drawn to detail and patience, before eventually finding my way into sports.

What started with photographing my kids’ soccer games quickly grew into a passion. While capturing peak action is a big part of sports photography, I’m equally driven to tell the full story of the game—the intensity, emotion, and moments in between that often go unnoticed.

I currently serve as the lead photographer for the up and coming Abilene Bighorns professional arena football team where I am continuing to hone my ability to build a body of work centered around the energy, focus, and story behind every game.