Tips: Finding the Right Dance Photographer for You

Can They Get The Moment?

As Erol Ozan said, “Dancing is creating a sculpture that is visible only for a moment.” A great dance photographer must possess a range of skills. Like a product photographer, they need to translate your sculpture beautifully into the photograph. But because the sculpture is fleeting, they also need the timing of a sports photographer. Most importantly, since the sculpture is alive and emotional, they must be a master of portrait photography and lighting—after all, photography means “drawing with light.”

When these skills come together in an environment that fosters confidence and trust, your photos show more than just a shape; they remind you of why you dance.

Many dancers have shared stories of past shoots where the photos were technically sound but fell short as dance photos. That’s why it’s so important to work with someone who has both the technical skills and the artistic empathy to create images that feel authentic to you.

Do They Have Artistic Empathy?

Artistic empathy begins where the technicals of photography end. It’s about truly understanding your art from your perspective—what you want to say with your movement, how you want to feel in your photos, and how you hope others will experience your artistry.

A photographer with artistic empathy creates an environment where your voice is heard and your individuality is honored. They don’t just pose you in ways they think will look good; instead, they collaborate with you to refine your technique so it reads beautifully on camera—without erasing your unique expression.

This balance is essential: too much control from the photographer can silence your artistic voice, while too little guidance can leave your photos flat or unpolished. The right photographer listens, supports, and guides you so your photos showcase your artistry with honesty, power, and confidence.

Building Trust & Creating Space

Trust is the foundation of every great photoshoot. When you feel supported and have a safe space, you can let go of self-consciousness and be yourself. That freedom allows you to embrace your process and find your best combination of technique and artistry.

The right dance photographer builds trust by listening to your ideas, providing helpful feedback, and giving you space to work through variations. They should respect your boundaries and encourage you to express yourself fully—never rushing or pushing you in directions that don’t feel right.

Another nugget from Erol Ozan: “Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost.” When you trust your photographer, you can allow yourself to artistically wander so photos will be more than just poses. The most common thing a dancer will say to me is, “I don’t love these arms.” Working through alternatives to find something that feels right can take a little time, and it always pays off. When you have a trusted creative partner with artistic empathy who gives you the space you need, your photos will show what makes you a unique artist.

Respecting Your Vision & Voice

You’re the most important artist in the room. The right dance photographer knows their job isn’t to impose their own ideas, but to help you explore yours. They’ll offer suggestions if you feel stuck, but never push you into something that doesn’t feel authentic.

Your photos should look like you—not who the photographer thinks you should be. A photographer who listens to your goals, values your individuality, and collaborates with you will help you create images that feel personal and powerful.

When you have a creative partner who respects your vision and supports your voice, your photos won’t just show technique—they’ll capture your story in a way that’s authentic to you.

Planning & Communication

A great dance photoshoot starts before you step into the studio—it starts with a conversation. Before your session, you and your photographer should chat, get to know each other, and make sure they understand your goals. This connection helps you feel confident and ready when the day comes.

At my studio, I offer a Zoom or live tour so you know exactly what to expect. Even seasoned professionals have said how valuable it is to meet face-to-face, creating a sense of connection. When you arrive, it feels like you’re returning to a familiar, supportive space.

During your shoot, open communication keeps everything moving smoothly. A photographer who checks in, gives tips when you want them, welcomes your questions, and creates a positive vibe will help you stay relaxed and perform your best.

Consistency & Professionalism

When you look through a photographer’s portfolio, don’t just check if the photos are crisp and well-lit—take note of who’s featured. Are there dancers of different ages, styles, and levels of experience? Seeing a wide range of dancers presented beautifully shows that the photographer knows how to adapt, coach, and bring out the strengths of every artist they work with—not just seasoned professionals.

Professionalism matters, too. Do they respond quickly and clearly when you reach out? Are they transparent about what’s included, how the process works, and when you can expect to receive your photos? A professional, caring approach helps you feel confident and relaxed long before you even set foot in the studio, knowing you’re in good hands.

A word on editing: Professionalism includes knowing when not to edit. The right dance photographer will work with you get the photograph you know you’re capable of in real life. “I’ll fix that in photoshop,” is fine for a flyaway hair or a skirt moving oddly, but altering your body or technique can erode your self-confidence. If you’d like to learn more about how editing affects dancers’ mental health, check out my article: Photoshop and Dancer Mental Health.

Be willing to travel a little

You wouldn’t pick your summer intensive based only on its location—so don’t limit your search for a dance photographer to what’s closest. Finding someone who truly understands dance, can coach your technique, and makes you feel comfortable is worth a little extra travel.

If you’re exploring photographers beyond your hometown, check out my article on Using Google to Find a Dance Photographer for smart tips on searching and spotting great options—wherever your dance journey takes you.

A short trip can mean the difference between photos you like and photos that truly capture your artistry. Plus, traveling for your photoshoot can make it a special experience—an intentional time to focus on yourself, or perhaps a little family time and mini-vacation.

If you’re coming from out of town, I’m always happy to help you plan your visit to Greensboro, from entertainment to favorite restaurants, so your trip feels easy and welcoming.

Create Photos That Celebrate You

I hope these tips helped you feel more confident about finding the right photographer—and that you see how much it matters to work with someone who cares about you as a dancer and a person. You deserve images that capture so much more than just your technique.

Whether you need a headshot and first arabesque for your applications, or want to spend a day together creating images that fill you with pride and confidence in where you are in your artistic journey, I’m here to see you, listen to you, and support you along you way.