Brett Boyer Foundation’s Red Bird Games Hosted by Luke and Caroline Bryan: The Portrait Experience
When it comes to blending entertainment, community, and philanthropy, few events do it quite like the Red Bird Games, hosted on none other than Luke Bryan’s stunning property. More than just a day of outdoor activities, the Red Bird Games is an annual gathering that brings people together for a great cause—raising awareness and funds for the Brett Boyer Foundation.
What are the Red Bird Games?
The Red Bird Games are all about fun and camaraderie, offering a variety of outdoor activities that encourage sportsmanship and teamwork. From skeet shooting to fishing, and even a playful event called “putting for purses,” the games are designed to bring people together in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. It’s not about winning or losing, but about creating memories and connecting with others while supporting a meaningful cause.
Hosted at Luke and Caroline Bryan’s Property
One of the most exclusive elements of the Red Bird Games is its venue: the sprawling property of country music superstar Luke Bryan along with his wife Caroline. Known for their down-to-earth personalities and generosity, Luke & Caroline open up their picturesque property, creating an unforgettable backdrop for the games. Their involvement isn’t just about providing the location—they actively participate in the event, contributing to the lively atmosphere and showing their deep commitment to the cause.
The Brett Boyer Foundation: A Mission of Hope
At the heart of Red Bird Games is the Brett Boyer Foundation, an organization founded by Ellen and Bo Boyer in memory of their daughter, Brett Boyer, niece of Caroline and Luke Bryan. Brett was born with Down Syndrome and a congenital heart defect (CHD), and though her life was brief, her legacy lives on through the foundation. The foundation’s mission is to raise awareness and funds for research on CHD, which is the most common birth defect in the United States, affecting 1 in 100 babies. In addition to CHD research, the foundation also promotes the acceptance and inclusion of individuals with Down Syndrome, working tirelessly to improve their quality of life.
⬇️ THE BRETT BOYER TEAM ⬇️
Through events like the Red Bird Games, the Brett Boyer Foundation continues to make a difference, offering hope and support to families affected by CHD and Down Syndrome. To date, they have never had to turn away a family in need… That is FREAKING AMAZING!!!!
The Portrait Experience: Behind the Scenes
This year marked my second year photographing the Red Bird Games’ Portrait Experience, a creative portrait studio setup that adds a whole new element to the event. Last year, I teamed up with my friend Amanda Dease from Studio Dease, who led the charge on the creative concept and set design, and we decided to collaborate again this year for an even bigger and more imaginative setup. (Click HERE to see last years setup)
For 2024, Amanda and I met with Ellen and Jennifer over at Brett Boyer Foundation and we settled on a space cowboy theme—a concept we had a blast imagining and designing. After brainstorming what that could look like, we decided an Airstream would make the perfect backdrop to anchor the setup. Once we had that in place I gathered two more people to make an amazing team, Anthony Romano and Maria Valletta. The combination we put together of fog, gel lighting, and the incredible props Amanda brought together was going to take the Portrait Experience to a whole new level.
As we predicted, it was a hit! We had some of the most fun, creative people stopping by, many of whom we remembered from last year’s event. Everyone seemed even more excited about the props than we expected, really getting into the spirit of the space cowboy vibe. It was truly a magical experience, and I loved seeing everyone’s personalities come to life in front of the camera.
Join the Heartfelt Mission
The Brett Boyer Foundation does extraordinary work to bring joy, hope, and critical support to families facing congenital heart disease. Their mission goes beyond awareness—it’s about creating real impact and advancing life-saving research. Every event they host, every dollar they raise, and every moment they share brings us one step closer to a world where no family has to face this journey alone. If you’re moved by their incredible work, I encourage you to visit their website, learn more about their mission, and consider joining this life-changing cause. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families who need it most.
THE AMAZING TEAM:
Photographer: Tausha Dickinson // @taushadickinson
Set Designer: Amanda Dease of Studio Dease // @studiodease
Photography First Assistant: Anthony Romano // @anthonyromanocreative
Photography Assistant: Maria Valletta // @mariavalletta
GEAR USED FOR THIS PHOTO SHOOT:
Canon R5
Canon RF 24-105
Photek 46” Umbrella
Godox AD200
Godox SL150R
Profoto D2
Kupo Stand
MagMod Ring and Shoe
***affiliate disclosure***
