A unique fashion photoshoot took place in zero gravity, pushing the boundaries of creativity and style. This Incredible Fashion shoot was made possible by Wix, a website-building company, who funded the ambitious project conceived by Japanese photographer Reiko Wakai. Wakai’s winning concept in a photography competition involved capturing stunning images of a model in a weightless environment.
The zero-gravity experience was achieved using a modified Boeing 727-200 aircraft, owned by Zero G, which flies in a parabolic trajectory to create periods of weightlessness. During these periods, lasting around 30 seconds each, the model and crew floated freely inside the padded cabin of the plane.
To enhance the visual impact of the incredible fashion shoot, Wakai prepared the plane’s interior with silver foil and used props like water bottles, silver balls, and tubing. These elements added to the otherworldly aesthetic and helped emphasize the zero-gravity environment. Model Stav Strashko, with her long, flowing hair, was chosen for her ability to further highlight the weightless conditions.
The experience of weightlessness was described as incredibly peaceful and surreal. Participants laid on their backs to mitigate the effects of positive G-forces during the upward arcs of the parabolic flight path. Once weightlessness hit, the sensation was of floating effortlessly, with occasional gentle collisions with others.
While observing the incredible fashion shoot in progress, it became clear how challenging it was to capture the desired images. Both the photographer and the model had to contend with the constant shifting and floating, making posing and framing shots incredibly difficult. Assistants were needed to help stabilize the photographer and lighting equipment.
The physical demands of working in zero gravity took a toll on some participants. Both Wakai and Strashko experienced nausea due to the disorientation and strain of maintaining specific positions. Another passenger, unaffiliated with the shoot, became ill early on and had to be strapped into a seat for the remainder of the flight.
Despite the challenges, the incredible fashion shoot was a success. Wakai captured striking images of Strashko, showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of fashion in a zero-gravity environment.
The fleeting nature of the weightless periods, totaling only a few minutes throughout the flight, made the experience feel dreamlike and unforgettable.
