Teen Ballet Photo Shoot
Building a Safe & Supportive Space for Teen Dancers to Create Stunning Images
I still remember one of the first times I did a teen ballet photo shoot. Three talented students from the School at Greensboro Ballet came into the studio—eager but nervous, excited but unsure of what to expect. That day wasn’t just about capturing marketing images; it was about giving them space to have fun and feel proud of their art. It opened my eyes to how many teen dancers wrestle with confidence and how vulnerable they can feel during a ballet photo shoot.
Since then, I’ve dedicated my studio to creating an environment where teenage dancers feel safe, supported, and seen. Where every correction comes with encouragement, where dancers can explore their artistry without fear of judgment, and where parents can trust that their child is respected as both an artist and a person.
This isn’t just about creating beautiful images—though that’s always the goal. It’s about giving teen dancers the space, time, and positive guidance they need to dance their best and walk away feeling proud.
Whether you’re preparing for auditions, celebrating a milestone, or simply seeking photos that reflect your dedication to dance, I’m here to help you feel confident and inspired throughout the entire process.
It’s Always About the Journey
Over the years, each photoshoot has deepened my understanding of what teen dancers need to feel safe and confident. Even as a girl dad, familiar with the ups and downs of the teen years, I’ve learned a great deal about the unique pressures dancers face. I really enjoy working with teen dancers. It doesn’t matter what their background is or what their goals are in dance—there’s something extraordinary about this time in their journey. I’m humbled to have created a positive experience that builds them up and makes a real difference, not just in how they dance, but in how they see themselves.
Some things have changed as my studio has grown: we’ve expanded the studio, partnered with Tutu.com to keep a rotating collection of beautiful tutus, and collaborated with oodelooo Ballet Wear for some of our favorite skirts. I’ve honed my lighting and coaching skills, and earned my Master of Photography from Professional Photographers of America. What started as just a photoshoot has evolved into the Creative Dance Retreat—a chance for dancers to focus on themselves and their artistry.
We’ve also added little touches that make the day special, like Dance Cookies from Kool Cakes Bakery waiting at the end of every session (yum!). But one thing hasn’t changed: the goals of each dancer remain my top priority. Every artist deserves an experience tailored to them—because one size will never fit all—and my mission is to have a positive impact on every dancer who comes here, creating outstanding photographs along the way.
One of my first teen ballet dancers, Ashlynn, worked with me to create my first dance merit image, “Sprialing into Control,” and my first Image Excellence result, “Stretching the Limits,” at the International Print Competition.
Moving into the future…
I can’t say what will come next, but even looking at images just a year old, I see how my approach continues to evolve. Every photoshoot, whether ballet or contemporary, is a partnership between artists, and I’m so grateful for the dancers who have challenged me, trusted me, and shared their stories along the way.
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue growing, learning, and helping each dancer who steps into my studio feel supported, celebrated, and proud of who they are as an artist.