I’ve visited Providence Canyon only twice, but both visits felt magical. The light there is incredible and the landscape is unlike anything else nearby. Some people call it the “Little Grand Canyon of the South,” and it’s easy to see why: the colors, ridges, and dramatic erosion create a surprisingly grand scene.
On my most recent trip I joined a small shoot and wanted to share a few images from the day.
Cori Maass, who’s been collaborating with me recently, organized a relaxed shoot with two models — Angela Jule and Kiley Casciano — and I came along to help with wardrobe styling and dessert props. I also took a handful of photos to document the day and the looks. Here are some favorites from the shoot.
Art Direction: Cori Maass
Modeling: Angela Jule and Kiley Casciano
Photos and Wardrobe: Brittni Mehlhoff
Wardrobe details: Jule wears the black Carson romper by Megan Huntz, a Simone dress from In God We Trust in light blue linen, and a blue dress by Love Tanjane. Kiley wears a black dress from COS, a white silk dress (store unknown), and a vintage yellow smock paired with Sandra pants from Farrow. Each outfit was chosen to complement the canyon’s warm earth tones and the soft, natural light that day.
The shoot was intentionally informal — we wanted to capture relaxed movement and the way the garments read against the canyon’s textures. The red and ochre cliffs make an ideal background for both bold and subtle color choices, and the wide-open views allow clothing shapes to read clearly from a distance. Styling for outdoor shoots like this favors breathable fabrics, easy layers, and pieces that photograph well in shifting light.
Providence Canyon is a unique location for editorial and personal photo work because it offers dramatic natural elements within a compact area. The canyon’s exposed strata and carved gullies create dynamic lines and a strong sense of depth in images, which photographers and stylists can use to emphasize silhouette, color contrast, and movement. We took advantage of late-afternoon light to get warm tones and gentle shadows that enhance texture without flattening details.
Beyond the technical side, the day felt collaborative and playful. Small crews, thoughtful wardrobe choices, and simple props allowed us to stay nimble and focus on capturing spontaneous moments. If you’re planning a shoot at Providence Canyon, consider arriving early or staying until golden hour; the color palette shifts beautifully as the sun moves, and you’ll have more options for both soft and dramatic lighting.
What do you think of these looks? Have you been to Providence Canyon before, or would you like to visit? I’d love to hear your thoughts on the outfits and the location — and if you have tips for shooting outdoors in wide, rugged terrain, please share them.