As photographers, we are often driven by the pursuit of creating something extraordinary—images that move people, inspire them, and leave a lasting impression. In the world of portrait photography, few things captivate the eye like a stunning woman or couple surrounded by nature’s raw beauty, with a long, flowing dress billowing majestically in the wind. Enter the magical genre of flying dress photography. There’s something timeless about the beauty of a woman standing against the backdrop of nature, her long flowing dress sweeping through the air, caught in a perfect moment. This visual poetry has become the hallmark of Brittany Colt’s brand, The Flying Dress Experience. Her work blends the grandeur of nature with feminine grace, crafting images that feel both awe-inspiring and ethereal. But beyond the aesthetics, Brittany’s vision tells a deeper story—one rooted in female empowerment and a profound love for the natural world.
The Genesis of The Flying Dress Experience
Brittany Colt’s journey into the realm of flying dress photography is a testament to her evolving artistic vision and her deep connection with both the natural world and the human spirit. For many years, Colt served as the head of education at the renowned Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite National Park, a position that undoubtedly deepened her appreciation for landscape photography, a passion she cultivated from childhood growing up in the lush Pacific Northwest. This formative experience with iconic landscapes laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.
Later, as she immersed herself in Portland’s vibrant arts scene, Colt honed her cinematic eye. She experimented extensively with makeup, lighting, and art direction, orchestrating fantastical shoots that hinted at the dramatic flair she would later bring to her signature style. Concurrently, she began building a career in wedding and portrait photography, developing a keen understanding of capturing intimate moments and individual beauty.
The convergence of these distinct experiences—her intimate knowledge of dramatic natural landscapes and her skill in portraiture—began to coalesce into a new vision. Colt found herself increasingly drawn to a concept that would harmoniously fuse her reverence for nature with her commitment to empowering women. The initial spark for The Flying Dress Experience was deceptively simple: a flowing satin gown set against an epic, awe-inspiring landscape. This creative seed blossomed into a unique photographic genre that offers more than just beautiful imagery; it provides women with an unforgettable experience, a chance to embrace their femininity, beauty, and strength in a profound way.
A Metaphor for Liberation and Self-Expression
Colt views the flowing dress not merely as a prop, but as a potent symbol. "The dress itself became a metaphor for freedom, confidence, and empowerment," she explains. "It’s as if the natural settings are literally carrying these women into their power, into their full expression." This sentiment underscores the transformative nature of her sessions. From the imposing granite cliffs of Yosemite to the surreal, otherworldly sand dunes of Death Valley, and the fairytale allure of the Pacific Northwest, Colt’s chosen locations are as integral to the narrative as the subject herself. These environments are not just backdrops; they are active participants, amplifying the sense of grandeur and facilitating a deep connection between the women and the earth.
The flying dress phenomenon, while popular in destinations like Santorini and Dubai, is still a relatively nascent concept in the United States. This presents a unique challenge and opportunity for photographers looking to introduce this art form. Colt’s approach to overcoming this is rooted in a fundamental principle of visual storytelling: demonstrate what you want to create. By showcasing the breathtaking results of her sessions, she effectively educates potential clients about a service they may not have known they desired. Her work acts as a compelling invitation to experience a form of photography that celebrates beauty, strength, and the untamed spirit of nature.
Crafting the Perfect Flying Dress Shot: Technical and Artistic Considerations
Capturing the ethereal and dynamic quality of flying dress photography requires a nuanced blend of artistic sensibility and technical mastery. Colt, with her extensive background in landscape and portraiture, has developed a refined approach to this specialized genre. Her expertise encompasses not only composing striking images but also understanding the interplay of elements that bring these dreamlike scenes to life.
Key considerations for creating impactful flying dress imagery include:
- Understanding Light: Natural light is paramount. Colt often emphasizes shooting during the "golden hours"—the periods shortly after sunrise and before sunset. During these times, the light is softer, warmer, and more diffused, casting a flattering glow on the subject and enhancing the textures of the landscape and the dress. The direction of light is also crucial; backlighting can create a luminous halo effect around the dress and the subject, adding to the ethereal quality.
- Wind Management: The "flying" aspect of the dress is dependent on wind. Colt meticulously scouts locations for natural wind patterns or utilizes assistants to strategically create movement. Understanding how wind interacts with different fabric types is key; lighter, more fluid fabrics like chiffon or silk tend to create the most dramatic and graceful movement. Anticipating wind gusts and being ready to capture the peak of the movement is essential.
- Dress Selection and Styling: The choice of dress is foundational. Long, flowing gowns with ample fabric are ideal. The color of the dress can be chosen to either complement or contrast with the natural environment, depending on the desired mood. For example, a vibrant red dress might pop against a muted desert landscape, while a soft blue gown could harmonize with a coastal scene. The fit and silhouette of the dress should also allow for unrestricted movement.
- Subject Posing and Expression: While the dress takes center stage, the subject’s pose and expression are vital for conveying emotion and narrative. Colt guides her clients to embody confidence and grace, encouraging them to interact with the dress and the environment. Poses that emphasize elongation, movement, and a connection to the surroundings are often employed. The subject’s gaze can range from contemplative and serene to powerful and direct, depending on the story being told.
- Composition and Perspective: Traditional photographic principles of composition are applied, but with an added layer of dynamism. Colt often uses a wide-angle lens to emphasize the grandeur of the landscape and the scale of the dress’s movement. Low angles can make the subject and the dress appear more majestic, while framing the subject within natural elements like trees or rock formations can add depth and context. The interplay between the subject, the dress, and the environment must be carefully balanced.
- Post-Processing: While the goal is to capture the magic in-camera, post-processing plays a role in enhancing the final image. This typically involves color correction, contrast adjustments, and potentially subtle retouching to ensure a polished and professional look. The aim is to amplify the existing beauty and drama without over-manipulating the image, maintaining a sense of natural authenticity.
Building a Compelling Flying Dress Photography Portfolio
For photographers aspiring to enter the niche of flying dress photography, building a robust and captivating portfolio is the crucial first step. Brittany Colt emphasizes that showcasing the transformative potential of this genre is paramount to attracting clients who may be unfamiliar with its appeal. Her advice centers on demonstrating the unique value proposition of these sessions.
Strategies for developing a strong flying dress photography portfolio include:
- Mastering the Core Elements: Before specializing, photographers should ensure they have a solid foundation in portraiture, landscape photography, and understanding of natural light. This technical proficiency is the bedrock upon which the more specialized flying dress style is built.
- Strategic Location Scouting: Identifying locations that offer dramatic natural beauty and suitable conditions for wind movement is essential. These locations should be diverse enough to showcase versatility, ranging from coastal areas and forests to deserts and mountains. The chosen sites must complement the ethereal aesthetic.
- Experimentation with Dress Styles and Colors: A portfolio should ideally feature a variety of dress styles, fabrics, and colors. This demonstrates an ability to adapt to different client preferences and to create diverse moods and visual narratives. Working with different lengths, volumes, and textures of fabric will highlight the range of motion possible.
- Showcasing Client Experiences: Beyond just the final images, a portfolio can benefit from subtle hints at the experience itself. This might involve including behind-the-scenes glimpses or testimonials that speak to the confidence and empowerment clients feel during the shoot. The narrative should convey that this is more than just a photoshoot; it’s an empowering experience.
- Collaboration with Models and Stylists: To create high-impact portfolio images, collaborating with professional models who understand how to move and pose with flowing garments is highly beneficial. Partnering with hair and makeup artists and stylists can elevate the overall aesthetic and create a cohesive, professional look that captures attention.
- Developing a Unique Visual Style: While adhering to the core principles of flying dress photography, each photographer should strive to develop their own distinct aesthetic. This could involve a specific color palette, a unique approach to composition, or a particular emotional tone conveyed in the images. A signature style helps a photographer stand out in a competitive market.
- Targeted Marketing Materials: Once a portfolio is established, the next step is to present it effectively. This includes creating a dedicated section on a website, utilizing social media platforms like Instagram with relevant hashtags, and potentially developing targeted marketing materials for wedding planners, bridal boutiques, or luxury travel agencies.
Empowering Women Through the Lens: A Transformative Mission
At the core of Brittany Colt’s The Flying Dress Experience lies a profound commitment to uplifting and empowering women. Her personal journey, marked by growth and self-discovery, has underscored the potent capacity of photography to not only capture external beauty but also to foster inner confidence and facilitate healing. For many of her clients, the flying dress photoshoot transcends a mere photographic session; it becomes a deeply transformative experience. It offers them an opportunity to reconnect with their femininity, to embrace their inherent strength, and to feel genuinely seen and celebrated.
Colt articulates this philosophy with clarity: "I’ve always believed in the power of art to transform, not just the artist but the subject as well," she states. "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 perspective highlights the holistic approach Colt takes, where the creation of stunning visuals is intrinsically linked to the emotional and psychological well-being of her clients. The process of donning a magnificent gown, interacting with the raw beauty of nature, and being guided through a session that emphasizes their inherent worth can be profoundly liberating.
The implications of this approach are significant. In a society that often places undue emphasis on external validation and societal pressures, Colt’s work offers a powerful counter-narrative. It provides a space where women can shed inhibitions, embrace their sensuality and strength, and experience a sense of unadulterated joy and self-acceptance. The images produced are not just portraits; they are visual affirmations of a woman’s power, resilience, and inherent beauty, amplified by the majestic embrace of the natural world. This focus on empowerment aligns with a broader cultural shift towards celebrating female agency and self-love, making Colt’s flying dress photography a timely and resonant art form.
In the competitive landscape of wedding and portrait photography, Brittany Colt’s The Flying Dress Experience presents a fresh, visionary approach that resonates with both photographers and clients. Through a masterful combination of breathtaking natural settings, the dramatic elegance of flowing gowns, and a deeply 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 profound level of artistic expression and client connection. Whether a photographer is just beginning their career or looking to infuse their existing work with renewed vitality, Colt’s journey serves as an inspiring model. It encourages the expansion of creativity, the cultivation of collaborative partnerships, and the creation of truly magical, impactful imagery that celebrates both the individual spirit and the grandeur of our planet.
Explore Brittany Colt’s work at BrittanyColt.com, The Flying Dress Experience, @theflyingdressexperience, and @brittanycolt.
Shawn Reeder is a Yosemite & Eastern Sierra-based adventure elopement photographer and filmmaker who loves to photograph couples in love amidst the majesty of awe-inspiring nature. See more of his work on his adventure elopement and landscape websites, and his elopement and landscape Instagrams.
