Neon Cowgirl Photoshoot: Bold Creative Direction & Behind-the-Scenes Secrets
So, I have to tell you about this editorial I’ve been working on—my "Neon Cowgirl" shoot. It’s all about blending that Coastal Cowgirl vibe with the exclusive, neon-lit energy of Coachella’s Neon Carnival. I mean, how could I not? The bold colors, the bright lights, the carefree spirit—it was like I was pulling inspiration from two worlds and trying to bring them together into one unforgettable shoot.
Photographed by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media
Neon Cowgirl Photoshoot: Creative Direction and Behind-the-Scenes Secrets
From iconic cowboy hats to vibrant neon accents, the Neon Cowgirl photoshoot brings a modern twist to classic Western vibes. In this blog, I’m taking you behind the scenes of this one-of-a-kind photoshoot, where bold colors, inventive lighting, and unique styling choices come together.
The Concept: Neon Cowgirl Aesthetic
The Neon Cowgirl aesthetic blends the timeless Cowgirl look with edgy neon elements. Think classic Western vibes, elevated with vivid pinks, purples, and blues that pop in any light. I wanted to capture the spirit of independence and adventure, creating a set that combines nostalgia with a distinctly modern feel.
Photographed by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media
Styling and Wardrobe Choices
In this shoot, we played with various textures, colors, and accessories that gave the model a strong but playful edge. The cowboy hat, a classic staple, was paired with a bolo tie, fur jacket, and beat-up cowboy boots accents for a mix of Western and glitzy vibes.
Photographed by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media
Setting the Scene with Lighting
Lighting played a huge role in bringing the Neon Cowgirl aesthetic to life. We used a blend of natural and neon lights to create an atmosphere that was both vibrant and mysterious. For the best neon effect, we chose locations with ambient lighting that could interact with neon pink and blue lights, enhancing the bold tones in each shot.
Photographed by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media
Behind-the-Scenes Moments
One of the key challenges was balancing the light without overpowering the natural ambiance. We experimented with different angles and light placements, sometimes using mirrors and props to reflect light and create unique shadows. Each setup was carefully crafted to maintain a strong, cohesive aesthetic, giving the images that perfect mix of classic and contemporary.
Photographed by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media
The way the light played off the model’s makeup, her outfit—it all came together perfectly. The scene felt alive and electric, and it brought the Neon Cowgirl concept to life in a way a studio just wouldn’t have been able to. It was like magic on set, and I couldn’t be more excited about how it turned out.
Photographed by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media
