When Dolly Parton passed away this summer, so many of us stopped and thought about what she meant to us. There are literally generations of people who grew up loving Dolly and her music. She was talented, funny, strong and completely herself, but above all, Dolly was kind. She used her success to lift other people up, encouraged everyone to dream big and showed us that you can be incredibly successful without losing your heart. This Dolly Parton photoshoot with my daughter and her friends is my small tribute to a woman who brought so much joy into the world and reminded us all to lead with kindness.
Why a Dolly Parton photoshoot
Dolly is easy to build a look around. Big hair, rhinestones, fringe, bright colors, and a lot of sparkle. She’s also a songwriter who grew up with very little, and that side of her is just as much a part of her story. This shoot came together very last minute. I had a rare night off and decided this was what we were doing. It definitely helped that my amazing friend Sarah, florist and designer at Melody Rose Designs, lives just minutes away and is always willing to run with an idea. We pulled inspiration from the glamorous Dolly everyone immediately recognizes, with a little nod to her country roots and the stories behind her songs.
Golden hour, a vintage piano, and wildflowers
We shot at golden hour, when the light is soft and warm and everyone looks good. The vintage piano is a nod to Dolly’s songwriting, and the wildflowers bring in her country roots.
How to plan your own Dolly Parton photoshoot
You don’t need a full costume to make a themed shoot work. Here’s what I’d do:
- Pick a few signature pieces. Fringe, rhinestones, a bold color, or big teased hair say “Dolly” faster than a head-to-toe outfit.
- Choose your era. 70s Dolly, 9 to 5 Dolly, and Coat of Many Colors Dolly all look different.
- Add one anchor prop. A guitar, or an armful of wildflowers gives the photos a focal point.
- Shoot about an hour before sunset. The light is warm and forgiving, and it works on every skin tone.
- Play her music while we shoot. People relax when their favorite song comes on, and it shows in the photos.
- Give friends something to do together. Sitting squished together or walking through the flowers gets better photos than standing in a stiff line.
Book your own themed session
If you have a favorite artist, movie, or decade you’d love to build a session around, send me a message. I’m based in Madison and I love a good themed shoot. Tell me your idea and we’ll figure out the look together. You can always reach me here.
Her family asked that donations go to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. If you’d like to honor her, you can learn more at imaginationlibrary.com.
