Dance Photography. Re-Imagined.
Too often, dancers step in front of the camera and feel like they have to get everything right—fast. But real artistry doesn’t thrive on a countdown; it needs space, trust, and time. Many photographers lack the dance knowledge or the patience to guide you effectively. Sometimes they forget that it isn’t about their photography—it’s about photographing your art.
With me, you’ll find a positive, supportive environment where your vision is the priority and your process is respected. Every dancer deserves to feel seen, heard, and authentically represented. Here, you’ll have the time to explore, revisit ideas, and try something bold (or quiet), shaping images you’re truly proud of—both technically and artistically.
Because when you have space and time, you can create magic—and that’s why you’re here.
“This was the most fun, nurturing, creative, and comfortable experience for both my dancer and myself… Andrew is a master at his craft, but above all else, he is supportive, caring, and encouraging… He instills confidence… Andrew is a true gem in the dance photography world.”
—Kerry (parent)
How Did I Become a Dance Photographer?
I didn’t grow up in a dance studio studio. I got into photography in middle school because I was terrible at drawing—and found my artistic outlet.
For years, photography remained a creative outlet alongside my tech career. But over time, that work began to feel disconnected from people and purpose. After we lost our second child to birth defects, I knew something had to change.
When we moved to North Carolina, turning my hobby into a business felt right—it gave me space to create and connect. I started with families and seniors because that’s what I knew. Everything changed when one senior who was a competitive dancer asked for a few ballet and acro photos. I quickly realized this was different. Getting a pose to look good wasn’t just hard—it was humbling. That moment launched years of study, mentoring, and listening, and the direction of my artistry began to evolve.
In 2020, when I could finally invite clients back into the studio, I reached out to a few dancers—just to create. I knew they might not feel “in shape,” but that was okay. Each said yes. And then one dancer’s mom said, “You don’t know what you just did. This was the first time she smiled since March.” That was the moment everything clicked. I took down the family and senior pages and leaned fully into dance. That’s when I became Andrew Bowen, Dance Photographer.
Since then, I’ve learned so much about the nuances of ballet, contemporary, commercial and competitive dance. Dancers have shared their their stories with me—celebrations and struggles, moments of joy and vulnerability. Those conversations have shaped everything about how I work. And I’ve been learning at every retreat ever since.
I can’t imagine a better life. I’m a girl-dad (our daughter is grown and thriving in DC), and I’ve been married to my wife for over 30 years. I value the arts, integrity, a great pun, and a terrible dad joke. I’ve been honored with awards in juried print competitions—but the biggest honor is having created a space where dancers feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Dance Photography is About Trust
When you step in front of a camera, you’re sharing more than your movement—you’re sharing yourself as an artist. This is an act of courage, vulnerability, and trust.
My role is to create a space where you can confidently take artistic risks and see them come alive on screen.
I take my responsibility to every artist who comes to my studio seriously. I deeply appreciate the vulnerability of working in front of a camera. I promise that I will support you, encourage you, guide you, coach you, laugh with you, and inspire you along your path to creating the photographs that make you proud of your accomplishments and excited for your future.
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The Work Behind The Work
At the end of the day, what matters is the experience and photography I deliver. Like you, I’m committed to growth—and that means learning, pushing boundaries, and staying connected to both the art and the artist.
I am always seeking ways to improve how we work together and the images we create. That’s why I’ve earned certifications not just in photography, but in dancer wellness too.
PX3: Bronze Award
Testing our work on the international stage—ensuring our images resonate at the highest levels of the photographic world.
Danscend
Grounding my work in empathy by understanding the emotional realities dancers face, and how I can improve my part of the dance world.
World Photographic Cup
Bronze Medalist
Honored to have been selected by Team USA to represent my country and PPA. Thrilled that an international panel of judges believed in our art.
American Society of Photographers
ASP offers diverse educational content and competition opportunities with expert feedback tailored to photographer who have earned their Master of Photography to ensure continued professional growth
Youth Mental Health
First Aid
Training to recognize signs of stress and mental health concerns—so I can be a safer presence for dancers under pressure.
Professional Photographers of America
An expansive community that challenges me to constantly improve through education, mentorship, and national competition.
Master Photographers International
MPI is a global form of education through competition and feedback. What I most value is the diverse set of categories to gain targeted feedback in specific genres. I’m honored to have received my Master Photographer in Portrait Photography.
Master of Photography (PPA)
Earning my Master of Photography (M.Photog.) was a significant milestone in my development and the process drastically improved my photography.
Professional Photographers of NC
PPNC creates an environment of locally accessible education and community that helps challenge and support me in my artistic journey.
Triad Local First
The soul of a small business is a commitment to its community. I’m proud to support exceptional local and regional organizations—through financial contributions, sponsorships, and collaboration.
You’ve spent years building your technique and artistry—but in front of a camera, it can still feel like the pressure’s all on you. That’s where I come in. I’ll be there to support your process, honor your voice, and help you create something that feels like you.
Bringing your vision to life is as easy as first, second, third.
- Schedule Your Call
- Pack Your Dance Bag
- Be Authentically You
