SYCUAN INDIAN RESERVATION 1989

Photo 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,
Kumiai Children of San Jose de la Zorra: 9, 10

SYCUAN INDIAN RESERVATION - California Native Americans children Alanna Sandoval and OJ Sandoval, Kumeyaay Sycuan band members, photographed on forest bed playing on the Sycuan Indian Reservation, San Diego County, 1989.

This was one of the first photographs I produced for the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation as an independent contractor -- Sycuan's band members, fire department, college and casino kept me busy for the next 20 years....

Art direction: Fritz Opel
Gary G. Ballard photos and design

Children grew up, pictured 14 Years Later:

OJ and Alanna Sandoval in their pow-wow regalia, participating in their band's fiesta gathering in 2003 on their reservation. OJ's is adorned in blazing orange, Rez Rat trademarked on his forearms, Native Pride cap, and large bustle of eagle feathers. Alanna is wearing a purple traditional fancy shawl and "Barona Powwow" sash she likely won competing at a similar Barona event.

Both of these images were taken on medium format Mamiya 645 1000s film cameras -- top image was shot on black and white film -- bottom image was on color Kodak VPS 160 rated at 100, using 150mm Leaf shutter lens and Metz 60 CT4 flash (TTL metering) at 1/500th sec, f/5.6 -- this setup was old school -- what a job it did in the sun filling in the shadows....

California Native American Kids Pictures, historical G. BALLARD photo archive.