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Finding the Right Dance Photographer

Ballerina in Romantic Tutu from Copellia
UNCSA Ballet Student, Bridget in her YAGP Costume from Coppelia.

Things to Consider When Looking for a Dance Photographer

What makes a great dance photograph? It is the joint effort of the dancer and the right photographer. What makes someone the right dance photographer for you? They need to have the skills to get the picture, but…

More than anything, it is TRUST.

Understand the Photographer’s Goals

A photographer can have all of the best equipment and lighting, but if their style and goals don’t align with yours, you’re less likely to create photos you’ll be proud to share.

First, and most importantly, do they respect you as an artist? Do they see themselves as the director of the photoshoot or someone working in your service? Who is going to determine when you’ve got the shot?

Are they willing to take the time to meet with you, and understand who you are as an artist prior to your studio time? Can you meet with them, talk to the photographer, and ask questions?

Can they be trusted to respect your decisions? A great dance photographer values your portfolio and career over all else. They can be trusted to only post photos that you approve.

Great dance photography doesn’t just show technical beauty; it tells a story about you. When you find the right dance photographer, the photos of your dreams will happen.

Not all Photographers Are Dance Photographers

A dance photographer is not just anyone who points a camera at a dancer. A true dance photographer is a photographer who is working for the benefit of dancers at any level. Their priority should be the dancer’s artistic autonomy and the dancer’s emotional and physical well-being.

A dance photographer is one part dance coach, one part portrait photographer, one part lighting designer, one part sports photographer, one part choreographer, one part sculptural photographer, one part confidant and therapist, and always your biggest fan.

My goal is to create an environment of trust that allows you to explore your artistry and express yourself freely.

Check Out Their Website and Instagram Profile

As you’re preparing to book your dance photoshoot, take a few minutes to browse each photographer’s website and Instagram profile. Get a sense of their style. Ask yourself these questions.

  • Does each photograph look like the same person or pose?
  • Are the photos consistently high quality and unique?
  • What do their reviews say?

A little research can go a long way!

Be willing to travel a little

You wouldn’t pick your summer intensive solely because it was in your hometown, right? Expand your search to look for photographers within a few hours or a day’s drive. Google can help you with this, but you need to help it out to get the best results. I’ve written another article on how to get Google to find photographers who specialize in working with dancers.

Perhaps you live in Greensboro, and you won’t need to travel, or perhaps you live in a big city and want something different (and less expensive), or you and your family have always wanted to visit North Carolina.

Let’s Make Exquisite Dance Photography Together

Choosing a photographer to create your photographs is one of many important decisions. Your pictures say as much about you as an artist as it does about your dance technique. Choosing the right photographer is necessary if you want images that showcase your talent, artistry, and personality.

If you’re ready for a retreat-like experience with a photographer who respects you as an artist and support your creative process, click below, and let’s create the photos you’ve dreamed of. I limit my appointments to give each dancer the time and experience they deserve. So, get in touch today to schedule your shoot.

Contemporary dancer in bridge position but only one hand touching. Black jeans and loose blue top exposing his chest.
Commerical dancer in fishnets and LaDuca shoes in a fourth with backward look
Contemporary dancers in folded passe-ish shape in white skirt and victorian collar against blackness
Dancer in deep pressed fourth with strong arm lines and backward gaze.
Bright attitude on pointe with big yellow skirt and purple leotard.