Flying Dress Photoshoot

How To Plan Your Own Flying Dress Photoshoot

Cynthia and I have been doing flying dress photoshoots of varying degree for years now. At first it seemed over-the-top but now it’s one of those things we try to do at every location. Its just so fun! If you’ve never done a flying dress photoshoot I invite you to give it a try! All you need is a dress, a location, and a sense of adventure!

What Is a Flying Dress Photoshoot?

A flying dress photoshoot features a gown with an extra-long, lightweight train designed to move dramatically in the wind. The fabric is usually chiffon or a similar airy material that lifts and flows easily, creating that sweeping, editorial look.

It doesn’t always have to be a long dress. Maybe it should be called a “fancy” dress photoshoot! I’ve done plenty of shoots where the dress is not necessarily long. And sometimes the women who come on our trips don’t necessarily want to do an over the top dress but just go with a fun dress. That also works!

The magic comes from movement. Walking slowly. Turning deliberately. Letting the wind catch the train. Sometimes a helper stands just outside the frame to toss the fabric at the perfect moment. When everything comes together, the result looks effortless and high-fashion.

I love to bring at least one type of dress with me when we travel for photoshoots for people to share.

Choosing the Perfect Dress

I have a few different flying dresses of varying degree of dramatic. I try to choose a color that is going to compliment my surroundings. Here are a few of the dresses I have and where you can purchase them.

Impact dress

This is the longest type of flying dress I have and is one size fits all. The “straps” go over the bust and criss-cross around the back then tie around the waist making it a great dress for anyone to wear. The train is pretty long but not TOO long and the color looks great on most people. You can buy this style impact dress on Jofolie although it looks like they no longer carry this style in deep ocean blue.

I also have a similar flying dress in yellow that I purchased on Amazon. The quality is not as good but it was in the right color. I wanted yellow for the amalfi coast photoshoot because … lemons? lol. We also used in in Venice.

The Best Locations for a Flying Dress Shoot

Look for open space. You need room for the fabric to extend fully and move freely. Golden hour lighting, either just after sunrise or right before sunset, adds softness and depth that makes the dress glow.

Location sets the mood. Some of the most popular backdrops include:

• Clifftops overlooking the ocean
• Desert dunes at sunset
• Historic European streets
• Mountain overlooks
• Lakeside villas or gardens
• Running up or down the stairs, letting the movement capture the dress

How to Prepare

Preparation makes everything smoother.

• Iron your dress! You might not notice the wrinkles at first trust me, you’ll be happy you ironed the dress later and so will the photographer who would otherwise have to edit them out.
• Choose hair and makeup that can withstand wind and heat. Loose waves photograph beautifully, but secure them enough so they don’t completely obscure your face. Matte makeup holds up better under bright light.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking between locations. Many people slip them off for the final shots.
• Hydrate, eat beforehand, and give yourself enough time so you don’t feel rushed. A relaxed energy shows up in photos.

Posing Tips for Natural, Powerful Images

Movement is your friend!

• Walk slowly toward or away from the camera. Try to use the wind and the movement to work with the dress not against it.
• Practice holding the edge of your dress and flipping out outward with a delicate hand so when you take the photo at the moment of release, your hand and the dress look natural
• Turn your body slightly instead of facing forward flatly
• Let one shoulder lead for a more flattering silhouette
• Keep your hands soft and relaxed
• Dont forget about your feet! Point those toes.
• If you can, have a third person helping with holding the dress, fixing hair and just being the photographers third arm

Why It’s More Than Just a Photoshoot

For many women, a flying dress photoshoot becomes a celebration. Of growth. Of freedom. Of stepping into a new chapter. The images are stunning, yes. But the feeling of standing tall, wind in your dress, fully present in that moment? That’s the real memory.

If you’ve been thinking about booking one, consider this your nudge. Pick a place that makes you feel alive. Choose a color that makes you feel bold. Step into the dress and let it fly.

Years from now, you won’t just remember how it looked. You’ll remember how powerful you felt wearing it.