Some sessions are planned down to the tiniest detail. This was not one of them. And honestly? That’s what made it magical.

Working with Harley is never just a photo session. It’s a creative exchange, a breath of fresh air, a space to play, feel, and be. Every time we collaborate, it feels like therapy for both of us. There’s something electric about the way we work together-effortless yet intentional, raw but refined. We just get each other, creatively and emotionally.

This session, which I casually titled At the Dunes, came together more from instinct than strategy. I texted Harley’s mom, Jennifer (who also happens to be our go-to stylist and one of the most brilliant creative partners I know), and asked her to bring a few fun outfits. As always, she delivered bold, unexpected pieces that gave us so much to work with. I truly need to pause here and give Jennifer a massive shoutout. She’s not just Harley’s mom; she’s a creative force and an essential part of the team we’ve built over the years. The three of us, Harley, Jennifer, and I, have been creating together for a long time, and there’s a trust between us that makes space for boldness, experimentation, and truth.

We chose my favorite beach for this shoot, not just for its peaceful atmosphere, but because of its stunning, dune-like topography. The rolling sand, seagrass, and open space made it feel like another world. It’s the kind of place that instantly puts us in a creative mindset.

The weather couldn’t have been better-overcast, cool, and just windy enough to add some texture and movement to the day. Harley and I both thrive in moody conditions like that. It brings emotion and atmosphere into every image.

We started with a playful 70s cowboy-inspired look, full of fringe and attitude. It was made for movement, and Harley brought it to life effortlessly. Then came a semi-constricted, sac-like dress, an unusual silhouette, but once Harley started moving, it became something else entirely. That’s her gift: she turns even the simplest piece into something expressive and alive!

And finally, my favorite look of the day, a circus ring leader-inspired jacket that gave the whole session a dramatic, theatrical finish. It was bold, commanding, and full of personality. We didn’t bring props. We didn’t need to. The landscape gave us everything we needed: wind, sand, flowers, leaves and even feathers!

There was no big concept behind this session. No deep metaphor or message. We didn’t need one. Sometimes the best creative work happens when we let go of expectations and just play. That’s what this was, a celebration of spontaneity, movement, and connection.

Every time I photograph Harley, I walk away feeling more inspired than when we started. These sessions remind me of why I do what I do. It’s not just about beautiful images. It’s about creating a space where we can express freely, dream out loud, and leave a little lighter than we came.