Your Ultimate Guide to Preparing for a Dance Photography Session

Hey Y’all! I'm Heidi Cay, a dance photographer based in Mandeville, Louisiana. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring dancer, preparing for a photoshoot can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. But don't worry—I've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you look + feel confident, poised, and ready to shine in front of the camera.

1. Warm Up and Stretch

Just like any performance, warming up your body before a photoshoot is crucial. As you likely know, stretching not only prevents injuries but also enhances your flexibility, allowing you to execute your best moves on set! That’s the whole pointe, right? See what I did there? Arrive at the session location early to give yourself ample time to warm up and get into the right mindset. You’ve got this.

2. Practice Your Poses

Confidence in your poses translates to confidence in your photos. Want your images to ooze the same confidence you bring to the stage? Before the shoot, take time to practice your favorite moves and poses in front of a mirror. This will help you become familiar with your best angles and expressions. If you're unsure, consider recording yourself to review and refine your technique. And of course, there will always be me to help, your trusted dance photographer. I’ve got you, boo.

3. Plan Your Outfits

Choose outfits that not only showcase your style but also allow for movement. Avoid clothing that restricts your range of motion. Consider the colors and textures that complement your skin tone and the shoot's theme. If possible, bring multiple outfit options to the session to add variety to your photos. Pro-tip, outfits that are flowy will extend your lines and put emphasis on your movement in a still images while a more conforming outfit will highlight your technique and muscle tone.

4. Bring Hair and Makeup Essentials

Dancers often move vigorously during photoshoots, which can lead to hair flyaways or makeup touch-ups. Pack a small bag with essential hair and makeup products for quick fixes between shots. This ensures you always look your best and feel confident throughout the session.

5. Hydrate and Rest

Proper hydration and rest are vital for peak performance. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your shoot and get a good night's sleep beforehand. This will help you feel energized and focused during your session. Plus who wants to be dehydrated and sleepy for their photos? Not me, sis.

6. Communicate with Your Photographer

Open communication with your photographer can make a significant difference. Share your goals, preferred poses, and any concerns you might have. This collaboration ensures the final images align with your vision and showcase your talents effectively. Often times, as a photographer, I will also just keep photographing and photographing. Sometimes I get so in my zone where I lose track of time - so let me know when you need a break too! I definitely don’t mind taking the time you need.

7. Bring Positive Energy

Your attitude plays a pivotal role in the outcome of your photoshoot. Approach the session with a positive mindset, and don't be afraid to have fun. A relaxed and joyful demeanor will naturally translate into authentic and captivating photos.

8. Prepare Your Costumes

Ensure all costumes are clean, pressed, and ready to go. Wrinkles or stains can be distracting and time-consuming to fix. If you're unsure about how to prepare your costumes, consult with your photographer for advice.

9. Arrive Early

Arriving early gives you time to settle in, do any last-minute preparations, and start the shoot on time. This also reduces stress and allows you to focus on delivering your best performance.

10. Trust the Process

Remember, a photoshoot is a creative collaboration. Trust your photographer's expertise and be open to their direction. This trust will help you relax and produce the best possible images.

By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to showcase your dance skills and personality in front of the camera. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you every step of the way.

Looking forward to capturing your dance journey!

Sincerely,

Heidi Cay
Dance Photographer | Mandeville, Louisiana