Monthly Archives: January 2026

Capturing Riley’s Spark: Headshots for a Dancer & Theater Star

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A professional headshot of Riley, a young woman with long dark hair, looking directly at the camera with a gentle, confident expression. She is wearing a dark top against a soft, light-colored studio background.
A professional headshot of Riley, a young woman with long brown hair, wearing a dark top and smiling. The portrait features a clean, light studio background with soft lighting.
A professional headshot of Riley, a young woman with long dark hair, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression. She is wearing a dark top against a soft-focus, light studio background.
A professional headshot of Riley, a young woman with long brown hair, smiling warmly. She is wearing a dark top against a neutral, light-colored studio background with soft lighting.
Riley’s professional headshot session.

I recently had the absolute pleasure of working with the incredibly talented Riley for a professional headshot session. Riley is a force to be reckoned with, balancing her demanding studies as both a dance and theater major!

From the moment she stepped in front of the camera, her passion and dedication were undeniable. We focused on capturing a range of expressions that showcased her versatility – from the thoughtful intensity required for dramatic roles to the approachable confidence perfect for dance and musical theater.

It’s always a treat to work with young artists who possess such drive and talent. We created images that truly reflect her personality and professional aspirations, providing her with the perfect tools for auditions and networking in the competitive worlds of dance and theater.

More to Come!

And the best part? This is just the beginning! I’m thrilled to announce that Riley will be returning to the studio soon for two more exciting sessions:

  1. A Dynamic Dance Portrait Session: Get ready for breathtaking leaps, elegant lines, and the powerful artistry she brings to every movement.
  2. A Personalized Senior Portrait Experience: Marking this significant milestone with images that celebrate her individuality and achievements before she embarks on her next chapter.

I can’t wait to share more of Riley’s journey with you all. Stay tuned to see the magic we create together!

This headshot session was just the first act for Riley! I am so excited to welcome her back to the studio very soon for a dynamic dance portrait session where we can truly capture her movement and artistry. Following that, we’ll be teaming up again for her senior portraits to celebrate this incredible milestone in her life. Stay tuned to the blog to see the magic we create in these upcoming sessions!

Valentine-Themed Dance Portraits with Vivi (@balletvivi)

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dancer on pointe holding a be my valentine heart

There’s something special about photographing dancers you’ve worked with for years. The trust is there. The understanding is there. And the growth—both artistic and personal—becomes impossible to miss.

ballet dancer on point holding a be my valentines heart
dancer on point holding some valentine flowers
dancer on pointe with one leg raised with rose petals on the floor
Ballet dancer striking a beautiful pose with rose petals on the floor

This Valentine-themed session featured one of my long-time dance ambassadors, Vivi (@balletvivi), and as always, she never disappoints in front of my camera. Vivi brings a combination of strength, grace, and emotional awareness to every shoot, which makes creating with her both easy and inspiring.

Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of watching Vivi grow tremendously as a dancer. Her movement has become more confident, more intentional, and more expressive. That growth shows not only in her technique, but in how she connects to the camera and tells a story through still images.

For this session, we leaned into a Valentine-inspired aesthetic—soft romance balanced with strong, elegant lines. Subtle reds and pinks paired beautifully with artistic studio lighting designed to sculpt movement while maintaining a timeless, fine art feel. The goal wasn’t just a “holiday theme,” but imagery that feels elevated, emotional, and lasting.

Valentine sessions like this are a reminder that themed portraits don’t have to feel gimmicky. When approached thoughtfully, they can highlight a dancer’s individuality while adding a seasonal layer that enhances the story rather than distracting from it.

ballet dancer on point with her arms raised standing in the middle of a valentine

Working with ambassadors like Vivi is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. These sessions aren’t just about creating images—they’re about documenting growth, celebrating dedication, and building something meaningful over time. I’m incredibly proud of how far Vivi has come and can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next.

If you’re a dancer interested in creating something artistic, expressive, and uniquely you, Valentine-themed sessions are a beautiful way to do just that.

Creating the Banks Family Portrait for SPAC’s Mary Poppins Jr. — Why Historical Accuracy Matters

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Stewartsville Performing Arts Club SPAC will be performing 'Mary Poppins Jr. Jan 16-17, 2026 at 7 pm and 2 pm

Stewartsville Performing Arts Club (SPAC) is bringing Mary Poppins Jr. to the stage this weekend, with performances on Friday, January 16 at 7 PM and Saturday, January 17 at 2 PM and 7 PM. As part of the production, I had the opportunity to create a special photo prop: the Banks family portrait that appears in the show.

At first glance, it might seem like a simple family photo. But for a story set in the early 1900s, authenticity matters — and that’s where experience in theater photography makes all the difference.

Honoring the Time Period

Family portraits in the early 20th century looked very different from what we’re used to today. Photography was formal, deliberate, and often reserved for special occasions. Smiling was uncommon, not because people were unhappy, but because long exposure times and cultural norms encouraged a more serious expression.

To create a believable prop for Mary Poppins Jr., I needed to match that historical style. That meant:

  • A black‑and‑white aesthetic
  • A formal, structured pose
  • Expressions that reflect the era
  • Lighting that mimics early studio portraiture

These details help the audience feel grounded in the world of the show the moment they see the portrait on stage.

Why Experience Matters in Theater Photography

An inexperienced photographer might simply gather the cast, say “smile,” and snap a quick picture. But theater photography requires intention. Every image — whether a promotional poster, a headshot, or a prop — becomes part of the storytelling.

My background in theater and performance photography allows me to approach these moments with the right blend of research, technical skill, and artistic sensitivity. The goal is always the same: support the production and help the audience step fully into the story.

A Sneak Peek at the Final Portrait

I’ll be including the finished Banks family portrait in this post so you can see how it all came together. It will also be on display above the fireplace during the performances this weekend.

Historical Banks family portrait prop for Stewartsville Performing Arts Club's production of Mary Poppins Jr.

See the Magic Live

SPAC’s Mary Poppins Jr. opens Friday, January 16 at 7 PM, with additional performances on Saturday the 17th at 2 PM and 7 PM. Tickets are available online or at the door.

I’m proud to contribute to this production and excited for audiences to experience the charm, nostalgia, and heart that make Mary Poppins Jr. such a beloved story.

Valentine Portrait Sessions: A Celebration of Movement, Heart & Art

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Valentine’s Day is about love in all its forms — passion for dance, confidence, self‑expression, and joy. At Dabour Photography, Valentine Portrait Sessions are designed to celebrate those moments with a fine‑art approach that blends movement, emotion, and a touch of whimsy.

This year, I created a series of Valentine‑themed dance portraits with Lucy to showcase what these sessions can look like. Using flowing costumes, heart‑inspired props, and clean studio lighting, each image highlights both artistry and personality.

Whether added onto a full Fine Art Portrait Session or booked as a short Valentine Mini Session, these portraits are perfect for dancers who want something expressive, elegant, and fun.

What Are Valentine Portrait Sessions?

Valentine Portrait Sessions are studio portraits styled around themes of love, movement, and emotion. Think reds, pinks, soft whites, flowing fabrics, and heart‑inspired props — all designed to complement dance technique and storytelling.

These sessions are:

  • Perfect for dancers of all ages
  • Great as a keepsake or gift
  • Styled with professional lighting and artistic direction
  • Designed to feel playful, confident, and timeless

Featured Valentine Portraits with Lucy

Below are six sample portraits created during Lucy’s Valentine session. Each image highlights a different mood — from graceful and elegant to playful and bold.

Young dancer in a white and red flowing dress holding a red heart prop in a Valentine themed studio portrait.
Valentine Grace in Motion. A flowing red‑to‑white skirt and heart prop come together in a graceful dance pose, capturing movement and Valentine elegance.
Smiling young dancer holding a red heart frame around her face in a Valentine portrait studio session.
Framed by Love
A joyful close‑up portrait of Lucy framed by a sparkling red heart, highlighting expression and confidence.
Young dancer seated on the studio floor holding red roses with a red and white flowing skirt arranged around her.
Roses & Romance
A serene seated portrait of Lucy with red roses and flowing fabric, creating a soft Valentine mood.
Smiling dancer holding a small heart near her face while wearing Valentine themed garland in a studio portrait.
Playful Valentine Sparkle
Caption: A lighthearted portrait of Lucy with festive Valentine garland and a heart accent, full of personality.
Young dancer lying on the studio floor surrounded by pink heart shaped garland arranged in a Valentine design.
Heart Shapes in Motion
Caption: A creative floor pose surrounded by pink heart garland, blending dance and Valentine design.
Dancer performing a high leg extension while holding a pink heart prop during a Valentine themed studio photo session.
Strength, Balance & Love
Caption: A powerful standing pose holding a pink heart, showcasing balance, strength, and confidence. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Interested in a Valentine Portrait Session?

Valentine Portrait Sessions take place at the Dabour Photography studio and are available on a limited basis. Sessions can be added to a full Fine Art Portrait Session or booked as a short, themed mini session.

Dancers are encouraged to bring:

  • Red, pink, or white costumes
  • Valentine‑themed accessories
  • Outfits that reflect their personality

Props are provided, and each session is guided with artistic direction to ensure a relaxed, fun experience.

If you’re looking for something unique, expressive, and meaningful this Valentine’s season, these sessions are a beautiful way to celebrate dance and self‑expression.

For availability and details, visit Dabour Photography or follow along on social media for announcements.

Artistic Dance Portraits with Lucy

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ballet dancer with a tutu on sitting on a white posing block
Dramatic artistic portrait of Lucy

Working with Lucy is always a highlight. I’ve had the pleasure of photographing her for several years. She brings creativity, focus, and a willingness to explore new ideas every time we collaborate. This session was no exception — she stepped into each pose with confidence and artistry, even when I asked her to try movements she had never done before.

dancer in white with a large tutu on and crown with eyes closed feeling the light above her face
Lucy wearing a beautiful white tutu and costume feeling the light above her head

For this session, we explored a mix of artistic lighting and dramatic. The combination of movement and light created a series of portraits that feel bold, expressive, and full of emotion.

Lucy adapted beautifully to every setup, moving like a seasoned pro and bringing her own interpretation to each moment. These images highlight not only her talent, but the power of dance to tell a story through shape, shadow, and stillness.

Ballet dancer in white on pointe with smoke behind her
Lucy on pointe as a snow queen

Sessions like this remind me why I love what I do. When trust, creativity, and movement come together, the results speak for themselves. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to photography Lucy who bring so much heart and dedication to the studio.

ballet dancer sitting on the floor in white looking to the side with smoke behind her
Lucy as a ballet dancer sitting on a floor against a dark blue backdrop with artistic smoke behind her

Amelia’s Artistic Dance Session

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Dancer in navy leotard performing expressive pose on white cube with dramatic lighting.
Amelia balanced strength and grace in this contemporary pose — a striking moment of control and emotion.

Amelia and I recently collaborated on an artistic dance portrait session, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the results. She’s one of my dance ambassadors, and every time we work together, she brings poise, creativity, and a willingness to explore new ideas.

Ballet dancer silhouetted against red background with arms extended and head tilted back.
Amelia’s silhouette radiates drama and strength — a bold moment in motion.

This session included both silhouette work and dramatic lighting setups. I probably asked her to try poses she’d never done before — but you wouldn’t know it. She moved with the confidence and grace of a seasoned pro, adapting instantly and making each frame feel intentional and expressive.

Ballet dancer in arabesque silhouette against vibrant blue background, wearing white tutu.
A classic arabesque captured in silhouette — elegance and precision in perfect balance.

From bold shapes to quiet emotion, Amelia delivered a range of looks that highlight not just her talent, but the power of dance to tell a story. These portraits are a testament to what happens when trust, artistry, and light come together.

Dancer in navy leotard and sheer skirt posing with raised arms under studio lighting.
Emotion in motion — Amelia’s expressive pose brings storytelling to the forefront.

A Quiet Moment That Spoke Volumes

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Earlier this week, I stopped by a local elementary school to meet someone about a sound system for an upcoming event. While waiting in the gym, I watched a group of young children enter for movement therapy. One little girl, Julia, quietly walked over, took my hand, and stood beside me. She didn’t speak — just held my hand and looked up with calm curiosity.

Sketch of a shy young girl with long wavy hair looking down, drawn in soft pencil style.
Julia stood quietly beside me, saying nothing — but her presence spoke volumes.

We walked together for a few minutes. She gently touched a speaker labeled “JBL,” and I told her what it was. She didn’t respond, but her presence was grounding. Eventually, a teacher came to take her back. Julia dropped my hand and walked away without a word.

It was a simple moment. But it reminded me how powerful quiet connection can be — no words, no agenda, just presence. In a world that often moves too fast, Julia reminded me to slow down, to listen without speaking, and to hold space for others.

As a photographer, I’m always chasing light, movement, and emotion. But sometimes, the most meaningful stories aren’t captured through a lens — they’re felt in the stillness between frames.

Let’s keep showing up for each other. Sometimes all it takes is a hand to hold and a moment to share.

Theater, Special Projects, and Giving Back: Highlights from 2025

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A look at theater photography, special sessions, fundraising, and creative projects that made 2025 an especially meaningful year.

A Year of Depth and Creativity

Some of the most meaningful work in 2025 came from theater and special projects — opportunities that blend storytelling, creativity, and community impact.

Theater Clients & The Freddy Awards

In 2025, I worked on 19 theatrical productions, providing show photography, video, publicity imagery, and headshots.

I was also honored to continue as the photographer for The Freddy Awards for the 13th year — documenting what’s often called the Tony Awards for High School Musicals in eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey. Being asked to present one of the awards this year was an especially meaningful honor.
Learn more at freddyawards.org.

Special Sessions & Giving Back

This year included a record number of special sessions, highlighted by Dance Dads for a Cure — a fundraiser held during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Pairing dancers with their dads for portraits was joyful, meaningful, and impactful. Together, we raised over $750 for breast cancer research.

Other highlights included:

  • Portraits for musicians
  • Artistic concept sessions
  • The debut of the Powder Experience, offered for the first time in 2025 and returning in 2026
  • Holiday portraits

Closing Reflection

These projects remind me why I love this work — creativity, connection, and community. I’m grateful for every opportunity and excited to see how these projects evolve in the years ahead.

Expanding Services in 2025: Video, Audition Sessions, and Professional Headshots

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From increased video production to audition sessions and headshots, 2025 marked major growth in the services I offer dancers, performers, and professionals.

Expanding to Meet Demand

Growth often requires adaptation — and 2025 was a year of expanding services to meet increasing demand.

From video coverage to audition sessions and headshots, my focus remained on providing professional, reliable, and creative support to clients preparing for important moments.

Video: Building the Right Team

The video side of my business continued to grow in 2025. To meet demand, I expanded my team and now work with three additional videographers, allowing us to deliver consistent, high-quality coverage across multiple productions.

Together, we produced 19 videos this year — a number that reflects both demand and trust.

Dance Audition Sessions & Headshots

Dance audition sessions continued to grow, serving dancers preparing for summer intensives and college auditions.

Alongside these sessions, I completed 12 headshot sessions in 2025 for dancers, actors, and business professionals. Strong headshots matter — they’re often a first impression, and I take that responsibility seriously.

This is a service I’m committed to continuing and expanding in 2026 and beyond.

Closing Reflection

Expanding services isn’t just about growth — it’s about showing up when clients need support the most. I’m proud of what was built in 2025 and excited to keep moving forward.

Dance at the Heart of 2025: Studios, Ambassadors, and Creative Partnerships

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Dabour Photography dance ambassadors 2025-26

Dance remained at the heart of my photography business in 2025 — from studio partnerships and recitals to a rapidly growing ambassador program.

Dance at the Heart of 2025

If there’s one constant in my work, it’s dance.

In 2025, dance studios and dancers continued to be the foundation of my business and one of the most fulfilling parts of my creative life. These partnerships go far beyond photographing performances — they’re about collaboration, trust, and helping studios and dancers put their best work into the world.

Supporting Dance Studios

This year, I photographed 7 dance recitals, working closely with studios to provide everything from digital photography to video coverage and publicity imagery. Each production represents months of preparation, dedication, and teamwork — and I’m grateful to play a role in preserving that effort.

My goal has always been to help studios meet their business needs while creating meaningful art for their dancers and families.

Ambassador Program: Growing Something Special

The Ambassador Program experienced incredible growth in 2025, expanding to 12 total ambassadors — tripling in size from previous years.

These dancers participated in unique opportunities such as a State Theatre session and multiple outdoor dance portrait sessions throughout the fall. More than anything, the program became a creative community — one built on encouragement, artistry, and shared passion.

Closing Reflection

Dance continues to inspire me — not just because of its beauty, but because of the people behind it. Studios, dancers, and families make this work possible, and I’m excited to keep growing alongside them.