The Way She Moves
@riqiolanderA dancer, three outfits, and the Idaho land that holds her.A story in stillness and motion
There are shoots that feel like work—and then there are the ones that pull something deeper out of you.
This one? It reminded me why I do what I do.
I had the chance to create with @riqiolander—professional dancer, instructor, and someone whose movement is a story in itself. We shot in two contrasting locations in Carey, Idaho: a wildflower prairie in full bloom and a rugged rodeo grounds. No fancy equipment. Just natural light, a few good lenses, and trust in the process.
Golden sunlight warms Riquel as she stands among bright purple wildflowers. Her sturdy Roper boots anchor her to the beauty around her. The Stetson hat adds western charm, and her denim jacket complements the flowing white dress that sways in the evening breeze. This scene embodies the joy of being outdoors at sunset, celebrating freedom and nature.
Look One: Strength in the Lilies
The first part of the shoot took place in a field of wildflowers. Riqi wore a flowing white dress with a Stetson tan hat and blue Roper and Jae Foundation Collaboration boots. The light was soft, the flowers were in full bloom, and everything about this moment felt like stillness and strength at the same time.
I leaned into minimal movement here—slow walks through the flowers, gentle turns, and long pauses. It wasn’t about posing—it was about letting her breathe and move and be.
Look 2: Wild Denim
The second look was a denim skirt dress paired with cream high boots and a flat-brim hat. Still in the wildflowers, but with a bit more grounded energy. Less floating, more becoming.
We caught the late sun as it dipped lower—light that hits different in Idaho when the sage starts to catch it. This outfit brought a bit more edge, a little more confidence in the posture and movement. Every step she took in those boots felt like a statement.
This is where the story started to shift—where softness met strength.
Look 3: Owning the Rodeo Grounds
We wrapped the session at the rodeo grounds. Dusty bleachers, worn fencing, open space. Riqi stepped into a sleeveless tied shirt, a fringe jacket, flared jeans, white boots, and her wide-brimmed hat.
Everything here felt bold and unapologetic. She danced across gravel, stood still against old wooden posts, and let the fringe do the talking. It was powerful in a way that felt real—not forced, not posed. Just her, in command of every frame.
The Way She Moves
This shoot became more than portraits—it became a short film. We used natural motion and wardrobe transitions to shape a visual story:
Beginning in stillness
Transforming through motion
Ending with rooted confidence
Why I love Sessions Like This…
I’m not here just to take pretty pictures.
I’m here to help people show up fully.
Whether you’re a dancer, a brand, a creative, or someone who simply wants to capture a deeper version of themselves—this kind of storytelling is what I live for. Shoots that are honest. That have rhythm. That mean something when it’s all said and done.
Let’s Create Something Together
If this shoot resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you.
Whether you're in Idaho, Hawai‘i, or anywhere else — if you’re ready to create something meaningful, let’s talk.