October 16, 2024
By Shawn Reeder
In the pursuit of capturing moments that resonate deeply and leave an indelible mark, photographers often seek to fuse artistic vision with compelling subject matter. Within the realm of portraiture, few spectacles are as captivating as a woman or a couple set against the breathtaking canvas of nature, her flowing gown dramatically unfurling in the wind. This evocative genre, known as flying dress photography, has been masterfully elevated by Brittany Colt and her enterprise, The Flying Dress Experience. Colt’s work is characterized by a sublime interplay between the raw grandeur of the natural world and the delicate elegance of femininity, resulting in images that evoke both awe and a profound sense of ethereal beauty. Beyond the sheer aesthetic appeal, Colt’s artistic philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles of female empowerment and a heartfelt appreciation for the environment.
The genesis of The Flying Dress Experience can be traced back to Colt’s extensive background in photography, which includes a significant tenure as the head of education at the esteemed Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite National Park. Her childhood fascination with landscape photography, nurtured in the verdant landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, laid the groundwork for her future artistic endeavors. Later, immersed in Portland’s dynamic arts scene, Colt honed her cinematic sensibilities through experimental work in makeup, lighting, and art direction, often orchestrating elaborate and imaginative shoots. This period also saw her venturing into wedding and portrait photography, specifically focusing on capturing the essence of women.
Years spent within the established paradigms of landscape and portraiture eventually spurred Colt toward a new creative frontier—one that would harmoniously blend her reverence for nature with her commitment to empowering women. The concept was deceptively simple: a long, flowing satin gown juxtaposed against a majestic natural backdrop. This initial spark of inspiration blossomed into The Flying Dress Experience, a venture designed not only to showcase the majesty of the environment but also to provide women with an unparalleled and transformative experience. It offers them an opportunity to fully embrace their femininity, beauty, and inherent strength.
"The dress itself became a metaphor for freedom, confidence, and empowerment," Colt explains, articulating the core philosophy behind her work. "It’s as if the natural settings are literally carrying these women into their power, into their full expression." Through her meticulously crafted sessions, Colt guides her subjects to connect with both the awe-inspiring environments—from the imposing granite cliffs of Yosemite to the surreal sand dunes of Death Valley, and the enchanting forests of the Pacific Northwest—and their own inner selves.
While flying dress photo shoots have gained considerable traction in international destinations like Santorini and Dubai, the phenomenon remains a relatively nascent concept within the United States. The challenge for photographers venturing into this niche lies in introducing a concept that potential clients may not yet realize they desire. Colt’s pragmatic approach to overcoming this hurdle is direct and effective: demonstrating the desired outcome. She generously shares her insights and strategies for photographers aiming to establish their own "flying dress experience" offerings.
Crafting the Immersive Flying Dress Aesthetic
The creation of these dreamlike, visually poetic images demands a synergistic blend of artistic sensibility and technical proficiency. Colt outlines key considerations for photographers aiming to capture the dynamic interplay of long, flowing dresses within natural settings.
Central to achieving the desired effect is the selection of the gown. The fabric’s weight, drape, and ability to catch the wind are paramount. Materials such as chiffon, silk, and lightweight satin are often favored for their ethereal movement. The color palette of the dress can also significantly enhance the image; vibrant hues can create striking contrasts against muted landscapes, while softer tones can evoke a sense of harmony and serenity. The length and volume of the dress are crucial for generating the dramatic "flying" effect.
The choice of location plays an equally vital role. Dramatic natural landscapes—mountains, coastlines, deserts, or forests—provide a compelling stage for the flying dress. Colt emphasizes the importance of understanding the environmental conditions, particularly wind patterns. Strategic timing and awareness of prevailing breezes can be leveraged to create the most dynamic and visually appealing movement of the fabric. Scout locations thoroughly to identify vantage points that offer both natural beauty and the optimal conditions for capturing the dress in motion.
Technical execution requires a keen understanding of camera settings and shooting techniques. Colt suggests utilizing a moderately fast shutter speed to freeze the movement of the dress while still conveying a sense of fluidity. Aperture control is essential for managing depth of field, ensuring the subject remains sharp while the background provides context and scale. Experimentation with different focal lengths can help frame the subject effectively within the grandeur of the landscape. Post-processing plays a critical role in refining the final image, enhancing colors, and subtly accentuating the dress’s movement to achieve the desired ethereal quality.
Building a Compelling Flying Dress Photography Portfolio
For photographers aspiring to enter the field of flying dress photography, Colt underscores the imperative of constructing a robust and visually arresting portfolio. Her advice for aspiring practitioners focuses on tangible steps to build credibility and attract clients.
The foundational step involves amassing a diverse collection of high-quality flying dress images. This can be achieved through collaborations with models, aspiring models, or even friends who are willing to participate in test shoots. Prioritize showcasing a variety of locations, dress styles, and poses to demonstrate versatility. Experimentation with different lighting conditions and times of day will further enrich the portfolio, highlighting the photographer’s adaptability.
Actively seeking out opportunities to practice and refine skills is paramount. This might involve offering discounted or complimentary sessions to build experience and gather more portfolio material. Engaging with local modeling communities or photography groups can facilitate these collaborations. The goal is to create a consistent output of exceptional work that clearly communicates the photographer’s capability and artistic vision.
Leveraging social media platforms, particularly Instagram, is indispensable for reaching a wider audience and showcasing the portfolio. Utilizing relevant hashtags such as #flyingdressphotography, #etherealportraits, and location-specific tags can increase visibility. Colt also recommends creating dedicated landing pages or sections on a photographer’s website that specifically feature flying dress work, providing a curated experience for potential clients. Investing in professional website design and high-quality image presentation is crucial for establishing a credible online presence.
Cultivating Female Empowerment Through the Lens
At the core of The Flying Dress Experience lies Brittany Colt’s profound commitment to uplifting and empowering women. Her personal journey of growth and self-discovery has illuminated the transformative potential of photography, not merely as a medium for capturing beauty but as a catalyst for fostering confidence and facilitating healing. For a significant number of her clients, the photo session transcends a mere recording of an event; it becomes a deeply personal and transformative experience, enabling them to reconnect with their femininity, embrace their inner fortitude, and feel genuinely recognized and valued.
"I’ve always believed in the power of art to transform, not just the artist but the subject as well," Colt affirms. "Many of the women I photograph come for the experience itself, not just the final images. They leave feeling confident, celebrated, and empowered in ways they didn’t expect." This sentiment reflects a growing understanding within the photography industry that sessions can serve as therapeutic and confidence-building experiences.
The implications of this approach extend beyond individual client satisfaction. In an era where self-esteem and body positivity are increasingly emphasized, flying dress photography offers a unique avenue for women to explore and celebrate their own sensuality and strength in a safe and supportive environment. The grand scale of nature serves as a powerful backdrop, amplifying the individual’s presence and inherent beauty, creating images that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply resonant on an emotional level.
In the competitive landscape of wedding and portrait photography, Brittany Colt’s The Flying Dress Experience presents a fresh, innovative perspective that inspires both fellow photographers and potential clients. By artfully combining breathtaking natural settings, elegantly flowing gowns, and an empowering message, Colt has carved out a distinctive and influential niche within the industry. For photographers seeking to elevate their portfolios and explore new creative avenues, embracing the art of flying dress photography could unlock a significant dimension of their artistic potential. Whether a photographer is just embarking on their career or looking to inject renewed vitality into their existing work, Colt’s journey serves as a compelling example of how to expand creativity, foster collaboration, and produce work of enduring, magical quality.
Brittany Colt’s extensive portfolio and services can be explored at BrittanyColt.com, The Flying Dress Experience, and via her Instagram handles @theflyingdressexperience and @brittanycolt.
Shawn Reeder, the author of this feature, is an adventure elopement photographer and filmmaker based in Yosemite and the Eastern Sierra. His work focuses on capturing couples in love against the backdrop of majestic natural landscapes. His portfolio can be viewed at adventureelopementexperience.com and shawnreeder.com, with further examples on his Instagram accounts @adventureelopementexperience and @shawnreeder.
