Making The Most Of A Dance Photoshoot For Versatile Dancers | featuring Emily Low
Dance photoshoots are a valuable opportunity for dancers to capture the beauty and artistry of their craft. For versatile dancers, who excel in multiple styles, a photoshoot can be a powerful way to showcase their range and talent. However, to truly make the most of a dance photoshoot, several key factors need to be considered.
The photos in this article are from a versatile dance session with Emily Low, a recent graduate from Southeast Missouri State University’s dance program and is about to move onto the next major milestone in her life: her professional dance career. She is rearing up to move to New York City to pursue her dream of performing. Emily is a versatile dancer with a background and interest in many dance styles. She studied modern dance, commercial, hip hop, and musical theater.
In this guide, we will explore why a longer session is important, what to wear to highlight various dance styles, and how to build a versatile dance portfolio. Whether you're a ballet dancer, a hip-hop artist, or a contemporary performer, this guide will help you prepare for a successful and memorable photoshoot.
Why a Longer Session is Important
When it comes to dance photoshoots, time is a valuable asset. A longer session allows for more creativity and exploration, enabling you to capture a wider range of poses, movements, and emotions. Here are a few reasons why a longer session is beneficial:
Variety: A longer session gives you the opportunity to try out different poses, expressions, and locations. This variety can result in a more dynamic and interesting portfolio.
Relaxation: Dance is a physical and emotional art form, and it can take time to feel comfortable in front of the camera. A longer session allows you to relax into the shoot, leading to more natural and expressive photos.
Experimentation: With more time on your hands, you can experiment with different ideas and concepts. This can lead to unique and striking images that truly capture your individual style and standout from the same set of poses every dance finds on Pinterest.
Multiple Outfits: A longer session allows you to change outfits, showcasing different aspects of your dance repertoire and personality.
Collaboration: Building rapport with your photographer takes time. A longer session allows for better communication and collaboration, resulting in photos that truly reflect your vision.
What to Wear to Highlight Various Dance Styles
Choosing the right attire for your dance photoshoot is essential to highlight the beauty and intricacies of each dance style. Be sure to select your outfits carefully. With versatile dance shoots, you want each outfit to correspond with the various styles of dance you’ll be capturing. Make sure that each outfit is selected with intention and that would be something that works for that style of dance, while it’s also something that you feel confident in. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect outfits:
Ballet: For ballet, consider wearing a leotard and tights in a solid color and flattering cut for you. Add ballet shoes and possibly a skirt or tutu for a classic look. Avoid overly busy patterns or colors that may distract from your form.
Contemporary: For contemporary dance, opt for flowy, expressive clothing that allows for freedom of movement. Consider layers and textures to add visual interest and depth to your photos.
Hip-Hop: Choose clothing such as baggier pants, a t-shirt, hoodie, and sneakers. Feel free to go with more of a street-style here.
Tap Dance: For tap dance, choose clothing that allows for easy movement and showcases your footwork. Consider wearing fitted pants or shorts that won't restrict your legs, along with tap shoes that complement your outfit.
Modern Dance: Modern dance attire is often more relaxed and free-flowing. Opt for comfortable, breathable fabrics that allow you to move effortlessly. Consider layering pieces for added texture and visual interest.
Musical Theater: For musical theater, consider wearing a solid leotard in either black or a pop of color that suits you, paired with nude or black fishnet tights for a classic look. LaDuca shoes are a popular choice for musical theater performers due to their comfort and style. They offer a range of styles, from character shoes to dance boots, that can complement your costume and enhance your performance.
General Tips:
Choose clothing that fits well and allows you to move freely.
Consider the colors and textures that will complement your dance style and the background of your photoshoot location.
Accessories should enhance your outfit, not distract from it. Simple jewelry or hair accessories can add a nice touch.
Overall, you want to make sure that what you wear emphasizes your personality and style. Avoid wearing something that doesn’t feel like you.
Building a Versatile Dance Portfolio
A versatile dance portfolio is essential for showcasing your skills and versatility as a dancer. Whether you're auditioning for dance companies, applying to dance schools and summer intensives, or seeking performance opportunities, a well-rounded portfolio can set you apart. Here are some tips for building a versatile dance portfolio:
Include a Variety of Styles: Showcase your ability to perform different dance styles, such as modern, contemporary, and hip-hop. This demonstrates your versatility and adaptability as a dancer.
Showcase Different Emotions: Dance is not just about technique; it's also about storytelling and expression. Include photos that capture a range of emotions, from joy and passion to seriousness and contemplation.
Highlight Different Techniques: If you have training in specific techniques or styles, make sure to highlight them in your portfolio. This could include pointe work for ballet dancers, floor work for contemporary dancers, or intricate footwork for tap dancers.
Include Group and Solo Shots: Show that you can shine both as a soloist and as part of a group. Include photos that feature you prominently as well as group shots that demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively with others.
Use Different Settings and Backgrounds: Variety in settings can add depth and interest to your portfolio. Include photos taken indoors and outdoors, in urban and natural settings, and with different lighting conditions.
Update Regularly: Keep your portfolio up to date with your latest work and experiences. This shows that you are actively pursuing your dance career and continuously improving as a dancer.
Consider a Video Reel: In addition to photos, consider creating a video reel that showcases your dancing. This can provide a more dynamic and comprehensive view of your skills and abilities.
By following these tips, you can create a versatile dance portfolio that highlights your strengths and showcases your unique style as a dancer.
To Wrap It All Up
In conclusion, a successful dance photoshoot is a collaborative effort between you and your photographer. By following these tips and guidelines, you can make the most of your dance photoshoot and create stunning images that showcase your talent and passion for dance. Carefully consider these key factors to bring your vision to life, and you can create stunning images that capture the essence of who you are as a dancer.
Sam Fink is a St. Louis, Missouri based dance photographer, specializing in capturing dancers’ unique technical skills and personalities on camera. She works with dancers across the United States, extensively guiding with photoshoot preparation to create a seamless experience.