6 Advantages of Working With a Dance Photographer
Being a dance photographer in addition to a family & wedding photographer has its advantages, from understanding movement to knowing how to direct. Here are my thoughts on 6 advantages to working with a dance photographer, whether it be for dance portraits or not!
1. I’m used to giving & getting direction.
Did you know that in the theatre, when someone gives you a note or a “call” for timing, you repeat back what they said (if it’s short) with an added “thank you”? It’s a little weird if you’ve never been around it, but it’s to ensure that you heard and understood what was asked of you. Obviously you don’t have to do that, hah! But, I will give detailed instruction as to where to go, where to place hands, and all that good stuff. Obviously we all miss things sometimes, but I like to think that I’m good at directing with rights, lefts, ups, downs, etc.!
2. I understand body limits.
I know how various pains feel, and where movement comes from in the body. Let’s say, for example, that your low back hurts. I’ll know what poses are and aren’t an option. I also know what looks good on camera & what doesn’t!
3. It’s all in the details.
As a dancer and dance photographer, hand and foot placement has always been a major thing you look for and focus on. It’s all about those subtle shifts, allll about them.
And specifically for my dance photography friends….
4. I know the terminology.
This is pretty plain & simple. I know the shapes, the jumps, the leaps, and the arm placements. We can speak our dance language and always be on the same page!
5. I can demonstrate.
Aaaannnnd, if for some reason my brain is foggy, I’ll just show ya what I mean! I don’t think I’ve ever made it through a session, dance photography or non, without dancing in some way. It’s just a part of everyday. If ya know, ya know.
6. I respect the immense work you put into your craft and will HYPE YOU UP!
Most importantly, I respect the YEARS of work and daily attention you put into your craft. I understand how we spend countless, COUNTLESS hours staring at ourselves in the mirror and breaking each movement down into the smallest fragments to analyze. I know that when you love dance, you cannot live without it. Whether dancing professionally, in a class, or at home in front of the mirror, movement is a part of us and it’s as natural as eating or sleeping.
If you want to check out my latest dance photography session, check it out here! If you’re looking to support a local dance store in our area (that started in my hometown of Frederick!), you can support them here!
