"Nature always wears the colors of the spirit."- Ralph Waldo Emerson
Outside the city limits, the backcountry of Washington is incredible. Earlier this summer our team coordinated an enchanted countryside shoot with Dannie Melissa Wit of Abeille Photography .The shoot would take place at the Kowgirl Spirit Ranch in Sedro Woolley, and at nearby wildflower field owned by the sweetest lady.
Dannie and I originally met at an Artists 4 Artist Project meet up in Seattle. We exchanged information and I knew from her smile and enthusiasm, we would get along great. That evening I found her on Instagram and followed the link to her website. Her distinct style and the glow that radiates in her photographs is dreamy.
My mind began to wander with images and ideas. The barn on the property flashed into my mind. Its gorgeous at sunset when the light shimmers through the cracks in the aging wood. The horses, they are magical themselves. Each one has its own personality and presence that I knew would fit perfectly with the overall theme.
After a few phone conversation over the next few weeks, Dannie and I picked a date and the obvious location, the ranch that my husband and I call home. Dannie suggested Anita Munson of Makeup, Brows and Lashes Oh My for Hair And Makeup styling and I'm so thankful she did! Anita is a joy to work with. Not only is she a fabulous hair and makeup artist she is so sweet AND she brought her beautiful daughter Awnya Munson who was generous enough to join in as a model.
The vibe would be Bohemian Country, so my arrowheads, raw crystals and other golden pieces were the perfect fit. I began pulling pieces and creating new designs for the shoot and quickly realized I needed help. I contacted Esther Maria Swaty whom I had also met at the Artists 4 Artists meet up. I remembered her elegance and grace and in her introduction where she stated that she was a "jack of all trades". Esther joined the team as our stylist and I'm so thankful she was there the day of the shoot because she was a tremendous help in creating "looks" and even inspired some on the spot jewelry designs with me. Along with all her in the moment help Esther was also able to help us with finding Kol Unger our other beautiful model. Kol is a natural beauty and was the perfect addition to our team.
I am so thankful for this dream team of women. It recharges my creativity to shoot in nature and be surrounded with others who appreciate its beauty. I chose to call this shoot Wild & Free because so many of my designs are inspired by my time spent in nature. When I feel frustrated or have a creative block, stepping back and exploring the wildness and beauty around me frees my creative spirit. My hope is that you enjoy these images by Abeille Photography and that they inspire you to pursue your creativity.
*A special thanks to Tiarra Sorte for creating and hosting the Artists4ArtsitsProject
XOX - Julie
