Shoot
Prep

Preparation and planning are essential in dance and a very big part of what goes into a successful dance portrait shoot.

COLORS

COLORS

With studio dance portraits, almost any color goes. Plan out what colors are most flattering for you and bring your favorites. For outdoor sessions, consider the color of your location and choose colors that coordinate.

STYLE

STYLE

Plain leotards and tights look good for audition photos. For a very classic look, a tulle skirt or tutu with or without tights is always a winner. For something more dramatic consider a flowy dress or skirt or a bold leotard with no tights. Street clothing works great for a more contemporary feel.

LEOTARDS

LEOTARDS

Most people prefer the look of solid colored leotards that have a great shape and some detail in the design. Bringing a selection of colors. A dark or light leotard can really change the mood of an image.

SKIRTS AND DRESSES

SKIRTS AND DRESSES

Bring whatever you want to shoot in. We do provide several color and size options for you to use during your shoot.

TIGHTS

TIGHTS

Please bring tights for audition photos and photos where you are wearing a classical costume.

PANTS

PANTS

Pants can be used for dance too!

SHOES

SHOES

If your session is outdoors. Please keep in mind your pointe shoes may get dirty. A dead pair of pointe shoes to wear for the photos. For outside portraits I recommend wearing pointe shoes. Bare feet, ballet shoes, tap shoes.

MAKEUP

MAKEUP

A good rule of thumb for photoshoot makeup is - a little more than you would wear for a nice event but less than you would use for a stage performance. But if you want a dramatic look, stage makeup is great. Please arrive with your makeup applied or arrive early to apply it in the studio. If you would like something a little different I have several makeup artists and hair stylists that I recommend for shoots.

Props

Props

We provide colored fabric and skirts

Tips When Preparing for Your Photoshoot

Stretching!

Arrive 15-minutes early to give yourself time to relax and warm up. Mental and physical preparation is essential to achieve an excellent dance portfolio shoot.

Inspiration Images

Take time to go over what you need and want out of your portfolio session. Making sure your photographer and everyone else involved has an understanding of your portrait goals. Pre-planning posses and wardrobe will make your shooting time flow easier. Having sample images of the concepts or poses will help the shoot stay on point. For audition shoots make sure you know your required poses.

Personality

Every dancer is different. Who are you, as a dancer and as a person? An important question when deciding the look and style of your dance portfolio portraits. Do you want sophistication and elegance, playful and happiness, or seriousness and edgy? Do you have a location that speaks to you?

Bring Help

Bring a friend or family member to your dance shoot. Having a friend at your shoot can put you at ease, cheer you on, help tweak posing, or even be used to throw fabric.