Stag & Bird Curated Photo Experiences

Unapologetically
different

Stag & Bird Curated Photo Experiences is for the wildly in love, the unapologetically themselves, and anyone tired of cookie-cutter photography. We photograph weddings, elopements, engagements, boudoir, seniors, families, and bold branding that stands out from the scroll. Our rich, vibrant edits keep skin tones true and emotions raw, turning “I hate having my photo taken” into “I can’t believe that’s me.” Every session is curated, directed, and crafted so you leave with art that feels as real—and as unforgettable—as you are.

about.

About.

Look, I’m not for everyone—and that’s the point.

I’m loud, a little absurd, and I say what I mean, directly. Some people think I’m “too much,” but that’s fine. They can go find less. Stag & Bird is for the wildly in love, the unapologetically themselves, the misfits, rebels, and strange birds who want photographs that feel like them—bold, cinematic, full of soul.

Getting to know our clients, hearing your stories, and turning those into art is the best part of my job. Stag & Bird thrives on the funky, the offbeat, and the “are-you-serious-right-now” moments. Whether it’s a wedding, elopement, boudoir session, senior portraits, a family that refuses to be boring, or a brand ready to stand out, this team and I bring a curated, hands-on approach so you get more than just photos—you get a damn experience.

And while Kansas City has called us The Best of KC six times over in The Pitch (best engagement photographer, best wedding photographer, best photography business - twice, each), we are available for travel nationwide - and beyond.

Our editing style? Rich, vibrant color. Spot-on skin tones for every melanin level. Hypnotizing details. The goal is art you can hang on your wall and feel in your bones for years.

I run this business the way I live my life: no bullshit, no fluff—just a lot of heart, talent, and a genuine love for what I do. My husband Micah and two sons race motocross and BMX, so we live life fast, messy, and full of grit. We tied the knot in April 2024, so I’ve been right there with my couples, riding the wedding-planning rollercoaster.

And because it matters: we’re open to everyone—LGBTQ+, cannabis-friendly, and people from all walks of life. We’re pro-Black, pro-brown, pro-women, pro-trans, pro-queer. We believe in your right to practice your religion free from persecution, we believe in the separation of church and state, and we believe in freedom. If that bothers you, we’re not your people.

If you’re ready for something real—and you’re cool with a photographer who might crack a "That's what she said" joke while fixing your veil—hit that contact button. Let's fuckin' go.

-Court

just who the hell do we think we are?

Courtney Specht

Court is the unapologetic heart behind Stag & Bird—an artist, storyteller, and visual rebel with over two decades of experience behind the lens. Known for her bold imagery and people-first approach, Court creates cinematic, emotional, and wildly real photo experiences for clients who crave something different. She leads a powerhouse team of creatives and runs her West Bottoms studio like a creative playground, collective hub, and home for Kansas City’s misfits, lovers, and dreamers.

team stag & bird

Kansas City’s Unapologetically Different Photo Collective

We’re not just a photography business—we’re a collective of artists, creatives, and visual storytellers capturing love, power, and personality in every frame.

Led by founder Courtney Specht, Stag & Bird has grown into a vibrant team of photographers, videographers, hair and makeup artists, and behind-the-scenes support who are all wildly talented and fiercely people-centered. From high-energy wedding coverage to intimate boudoir sessions, bold branding, and senior portraits that celebrate individuality, we show up to create more than pretty pictures—we create connection.

Based in the historic West Bottoms of Kansas City, with a second hub in Belton, MO, our studios are as dynamic and intentional as the people we serve. Whether you’re saying “I do,” reclaiming your story, or building a brand that breaks the mold, we’re here to help you feel seen—and look damn good while doing it.

This is art. This is story. This is the weird and wild heart of Stag & Bird.