Category Archives: artistic Dance portraits

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Sydney (@squidneykdancer)

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A dynamic dance portrait of Sydney in a monochromatic red theme. She is wearing a red bodysuit, red tights, and red sunglasses, posing in a deep lunge with one arm extended straight upward against a vibrant red background.
A study in red, rhythm, and connection.
Ellery and Sydney brought a presence that turned this concept into something striking and unforgettable.
Proud to have these two as part of my dance ambassador team. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Some dancers grow into confidence over time, and others arrive already glowing with it. Sydney (@squidneykdancer) is firmly in the second category. Even though this is her first year as one of my dance ambassadors, she stepped into the role with a presence and individuality that’s unmistakably her own. She may look up to her older sister Zoey—also one of my ambassadors—but Sydney’s style, strength, and artistic voice are entirely unique.

Like several of my ambassadors, Sydney calls West Jersey Youth Ballet her dance home, and it shows in her technique, discipline, and the way she carries herself in front of the camera. She’s also close friends with Ellery, another ambassador, and the two of them bring out the best in each other during sessions—equal parts support, creativity, and just the right amount of mischief.

A dramatic action shot of a young dancer, Sydney, performing a wide split jump (grand jeté) in a rain machine. She is wearing a bright orange leotard, with her arms curved over her head, surrounded by thousands of frozen water droplets against a dark, moody background.
A high-action dance portrait of Sydney in a rain machine. She is performing a vertical leg extension (developpé) while wearing a bright orange leotard. Water splashes and droplets are frozen in mid-air around her against a dark, dramatic background.
A dancer, Sydney, in a purple floral leotard, performing a back-bending pose while leaning against a white wooden chair in a rain machine. Water is splashing and frozen in droplets around her against a dark background.

Sydney thrives in specialty sessions. She took to the rain machine like she’d been training for it, embracing the challenge and turning it into something cinematic. The powder session was no different—she handled it like a seasoned pro, shaping movement and expression with a confidence far beyond her years. Whether we’re outdoors with long, flowing fabric catching the wind or creating moody, spooky portraits in the studio, Sydney brings intention and artistry to every frame.

One of my favorite memories with Sydney happened last year during a proof‑of‑concept shoot. I had asked for one or two volunteers, and her sister Zoey jumped in immediately. Sydney tagged along, curious to see what this new session was all about. At one point, she stood off to the side with her arms crossed, giving me a look that said—without a single word—“When is it my turn?” And honestly, she was right. She earned that turn, and she’s made the most of every opportunity since.

As she heads into high school next year, Sydney plans to continue focusing on dance, and I have no doubt she’ll keep growing into an even stronger, more expressive artist. I’m grateful she joined the ambassador team this year, and I’m excited to see where her talent and determination take her next.

Some of my favorite images of Sydney:

A professional headshot of a young female dancer with her hair in a tight bun, wearing a black spaghetti-strap leotard, smiling against a plain white studio background.
A female dancer, Sydney, in a green leotard performing a dynamic pose. She is surrounded by layers of flowing, translucent white and mint green fabric that creates a sense of motion against a bright white background.
ance Ambassador Sydney performing on a stage with vibrant purple and blue brick-wall backdrop lighting. She is wearing a light blue long-sleeved dance dress and pointe shoes, captured in an elegant open-arm pose.
A young female ballet dancer in a wide white professional tutu and black bodice, smiling and posing with her hands on her chin. She is centered on a dark stage in front of closed blue velvet curtains.
A young female ballet dancer in a white professional pancake tutu with a black floral embroidered bodice. She is posing on a dark stage in front of deep blue velvet curtains, smiling with one arm extended and her feet in a ballet position.
A young dancer, Sydney, in a black leotard and white pointe shoes, posing next to a "Haunted Mansion" tombstone. She has a serious expression and is set against a textured magenta and smoky background with a black cat prop atop the gravestone.
A young dancer, Sydney, wearing a black hooded cloak, looking intensely at the camera. She is holding her hands over a glowing crystal ball on a pedestal, with a dramatic smoky purple and black textured background.
A high-fashion dance portrait of Sydney in a monochromatic red theme. She is wearing a red sleeveless bodysuit, red tights, and red sunglasses with her hair dyed bright red. She is sitting in a relaxed, thoughtful pose on white minimalist blocks against a deep red background.
A dynamic dance portrait of Sydney in a monochromatic red theme. She is wearing a red bodysuit, red tights, and red sunglasses, posing in a deep lunge with one arm extended straight upward against a vibrant red background.
A high-energy dance portrait of Sydney in a monochromatic red theme. She is wearing a red bodysuit, red tights, and red sunglasses, performing a high leg extension (arabesque) while balanced on one leg against a solid red background.
A conceptual dance portrait of Sydney in a monochromatic red theme. She is curled in a tucked, seated pose on the floor, wearing a red bodysuit, red tights, and red sunglasses. Her bright red hair falls over her face as she looks downward against a deep red background.
A conceptual dance portrait of Sydney in a monochromatic red theme. She is wearing a red bodysuit, red sunglasses, and a red top hat, posing in a deep squat with her hands on the floor, looking directly at the camera against a vibrant red background.
A young dancer, Sydney, posing with her arms crossed and a slight smile. She is wearing a dark, textured leotard that is dusted with white powder. She is captured against a solid black background with dramatic side-lighting that highlights the powder on her skin and clothing.
A dynamic dance portrait of Sydney performing a high leg extension (battement) while surrounded by an explosion of blue and green powder. She is wearing a black leotard against a solid black background, with the powder frozen in mid-air reflecting her movement.
A high-action dance portrait of Sydney performing a grand jeté (split jump) in mid-air. She is surrounded by a large, explosive cloud of purple powder that follows her movement against a solid black background.
A young dancer, Sydney, in a black leotard performing a deep lunge (second position) on a green grass field. A long, translucent light pink scarf is blowing dramatically in the wind behind her, framed by lush green trees and a bright sky.
A young dancer, Sydney, in a maroon velvet top and emerald green satin skirt, kneeling on a reflective floor. She is looking down with a smile into a decorative holiday gift box that is emitting a bright, magical white glow, surrounded by Christmas ornaments and fairy lights.
A young dancer, Sydney, in a floral leotard and pink dance skirt, crouching on a white studio floor. She is holding a large red tinsel heart, with a smaller heart made of red rose petals laid out on the floor in front of her.
A young ballet dancer, Zoey, sitting on a studio floor and smiling at the camera while tying the ribbons of her pointe shoes. She is wearing a white floral leotard and a white skirt against a light grey background.

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Ellery

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Skirts and Scarves dance portraits on October 19, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Ellery (@its_ellevalentine)

Some dancers step in front of the camera and immediately feel like they’ve been there for years. Ellery (@its_ellevalentine) is one of those rare talents. Even though this is her first year as one of my Dance Ambassadors, she carries herself with a natural ease and artistic instinct that makes every session a joy.

Ellery isn’t just a dancer; she’s a true performer. She also shines onstage with ShowKids Invitational Theatre (SKIT), a community theater I’ve had the privilege of photographing for many seasons. Whether she’s dancing, acting, or blending the two, she brings a presence that fills the frame and elevates every image.

I first remember photographing Ellery during picture day at West Jersey Youth Ballet, the studio she calls home. Picture day moves fast — dozens of dancers, quick poses, limited time. But when I got to her images during editing, I found myself wishing I had more. Every single shot was strong. That’s when I reached out to her mom about doing a dedicated dance portrait session, and the rest is history.

Since then, Ellery has proven she can create magic anywhere — onstage, outdoors in a park, or in a specialty fashion session in my studio. She adapts, explores, and brings her own spark to every concept. Watching her grow as both a dancer and a young artist has been incredibly rewarding.

I’m excited to continue working with Ellery and to see where her talent, passion, and creativity take her next.

Here are some of my favorite images of Ellery:

Dance Ambassador Ellery posing in a white dress in a wooded park setting, New Jersey dance photography
Action shot of dancer Ellery with pink powder effect during a dance portrait session.
Action shot of dancer Ellery with pink powder effect during a dance portrait session.
Dance ambassador Ellery performing a leap in a rain machine at Dabour Photography studio
Dance ambassador Ellery performing a leap in a rain machine at Dabour Photography studio
Dance ambassador Ellery performing a leap in a rain machine at Dabour Photography studio
Ellery in a red fashion dance outfit posing on a white block, NJ dance photography
Ellery in a red fashion dance outfit posing on a white block, high-fashion dance photography
Ellery in a red fashion dance outfit posing on a white block, high-fashion dance photography
Ellery performing with flowy fabrics during a 'Skirts and Scarves' dance portrait session by Dave Dabour
Ellery performing with flowy fabrics during a 'Skirts and Scarves' dance portrait session by Dave Dabour
Ellery performing with flowy fabrics during a 'Skirts and Scarves' dance portrait session by Dave Dabour
Ellery performing with flowy fabrics during a 'Skirts and Scarves' dance portrait session by Dave Dabour
Ellery performing onstage, captured by Dave Dabour, theater and dance performance photography
Ellery performing onstage, captured by Dave Dabour, theater and dance performance photography

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Zoey

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Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Zoey (@zoeydoesdance)

A female ballet dancer in a black leotard and pointe shoes posing gracefully in a rustic, vine-covered brick window frame at the Silk Mill in Easton, PA.
Dance portraits with some of my dance ambassadors at the Silk Mill in Easton, PA. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Some dancers bring artistry. Some bring athleticism. And then there are dancers like Zoey, who bring a spark of pure, unstoppable boldness to every session. This is Zoey’s second year as one of my dance ambassadors, and she continues to surprise me in the best possible ways.

During a photo walk this past year, I casually pointed out a spot that would make a great photo — if only it weren’t so high. Before I even finished the sentence, Zoey said, “I’ll do it,” and was already climbing. That moment turned into one of the most epic images of the entire year. That’s who she is: fearless, game for anything, and always ready to turn an idea into something bigger.

A dancer in a black leotard with neon green and purple body paint posing with arms forming a 'W' shape under UV blacklight.
Close-up portrait of a dancer with vibrant neon green and purple face paint and glowing makeup, illuminated by UV studio lighting.
A dancer wearing a glowing 'DANCING' headband and neon body paint, holding a neon prop against a dark studio background.

I regularly ask my ambassadors what they want to try next, and Zoey never hesitated with her answer: a neon light session. My original plan was to do it outdoors at night once the weather warmed up, but life and schedules had other plans. When the idea shifted to a studio version — complete with neon body paint — I’ll admit I was a little nervous about what my studio floor might look like afterward. But when I asked Zoey if she wanted to model for it, she didn’t even blink. Of course she said yes. And of course she crushed it.

We would like to congratulate Zoey for her acceptance to Boston Ballet School’s summer intensive program! Zoey will be attending for four weeks this summer. Zoey also works at the studio she dancers at West Jersey Youth Ballet! Zoey also attends a gifted and talented dance program at VoTech. We can’t wait to hear all about your amazing summer intensive program in Boston Zoey!

Zoey brings a fearless creativity to every shoot, and she makes even the wildest ideas feel possible. I’m grateful to have her in the ambassador program and can’t wait to see what she’s ready to climb, paint, or light up next.

Here are some of my favorite images of Zoey:

A dance ambassador performing a dramatic high kick in a dark studio corner, illuminated by sharp strobe lighting that creates high-contrast shadows against the black walls.
A dancer in a white top and Santa hat with festive holiday lights blurred in the background, captured in a warm, seasonal portrait.
A dancer in a red top and Santa hat posing against a dark background with blurred, glowing red and white holiday bokeh lights.
A dance ambassador posing dynamically under falling water in a rain machine studio session, with droplets frozen in mid-air by strobe lighting.
A dancer mid-motion during a rain machine photo session, featuring dramatic lighting and splashing water on a dark studio floor.
A ballet dancer in a black leotard performing a pose in a large, arched brick window frame at the historic Silk Mill in Easton, PA.
A dance ambassador in a black leotard performing a powerful pose with arms extended, standing in front of a weathered brick wall inside the historic Silk Mill.
A dancer in a white vintage dress holding a book, posed in a moody, red-lit "spooky" studio setting with a dark backdrop.
A group of dance ambassadors posing on the grand stage of the State Theatre of the Arts, featuring dramatic stage lighting and a golden ornate interior.
Wide shot of dance ambassadors performing a synchronized pose on the State Theatre stage under professional spotlighting.
A professional black and white dance audition portrait of Zoey, featuring a dramatic side-profile pose with an arched back and artistic hand positioning against a neutral studio background.
A creative dance portrait of Zoey in a green leotard and white tutu, posing elegantly on one pointe shoe against a vibrant purple and pink "Valentine" studio backdrop.

Ready to create your own iconic dance portraits? I’m opening up a select few dates for Winter Artistic Sessions in the studio. Whether you want to play with dramatic lighting, themed sets, or creative concepts like the ones you saw here with Zoey, now is the time to book.

Check Winter Availability & Book Your Session Note: These spots are very limited and usually fill up fast!

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Vivi Taggart

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Vivi Taggart, dance ambassador for Dabour Photography, posing in a black leotard and pointe shoes for a fine art dance portrait.

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Vivi Taggart (@balletvivi)

Every dance ambassador brings something unique to my camera, but some dancers become woven into the fabric of my work in a special way. Vivi Taggart (@balletvivi) is one of them.

Vivi has been with me since the very beginning — long before my ambassador program officially existed. I’ve photographed her through countless seasons, styles, and creative experiments. In fact, other dance photographers have asked me more than once if she’s my daughter because she appears so often in my feed. While she isn’t, I’ll admit there are stretches where I see my dance ambassadors more than some of my own family.

What makes Vivi stand out is her willingness to jump into anything. Outdoor portraits? She’s in. Low light? High key? Holiday themes? Powder? Rain? Sunflowers? Valentine concepts? She’s already tying her shoes and warming up. She’s the first to raise her hand when I want to test a new lighting setup or explore a fresh idea, and she brings the same enthusiasm every single time.

Her dedication to her craft is unmistakable. Vivi trains relentlessly and spends her summers in intensive programs that leave her with only a sliver of downtime. This upcoming summer, she’ll be attending The Rock School’s five‑week Ballet Intensive, followed by one week of their Contemporary Intensive in Philadelphia, and then two weeks at Ducon in Virginia. Her commitment to growth is inspiring, and it shows in every frame we create together.

Vivi take dance instruction at West Jersey Youth Ballet @westjerseyyouthballet) in Annandale, NJ

It’s always a joy to photograph Vivi — her artistry, her work ethic, and her trust make her an essential part of my creative world. I’m grateful for every session we’ve shared and look forward to many more years of her in front of my lens.

Some of my favorite images of Vivi from just the past year:

Vivi Taggart performing a graceful ballet pose among the ancient-style stone megaliths at Columcille Megalith Park.
Vivi Taggart performing a graceful ballet pose among the ancient-style stone megaliths at Columcille Megalith Park.
Young ballerina Vivi Taggart posing in front of a glowing Christmas tree and holiday lights at West Jersey Youth Ballet.
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose outdoors near a body of water
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose outdoors in a body of water
Dynamic action shot of a dancer performing a jump with white flour or powder exploding around her for a high-contrast creative effect.
Dance ambassador Vivi Taggart posing in a vibrant yellow sunflower field wearing a black leotard.
Silhouette of a ballerina performing a pose against a dramatic orange and purple sunrise sky.
Fine art dance portrait of Vivi Taggart using dramatic low-key studio lighting to highlight her form and technique.
Fine art dance portrait of Vivi Taggart using dramatic low-key studio lighting to highlight her form and technique.
Fine art dance portrait of Vivi Taggart using dramatic low-key studio lighting to highlight her form and technique.
Vivi Taggart in a classical Nutcracker ballet costume and headpiece, posing for a holiday-themed studio portrait.
Vivi Taggart in a classical Nutcracker ballet costume and headpiece, posing for a holiday-themed studio portrait.
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose with a valentine theme
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose with a valentine theme
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose in the studio with a blue and white tutu
Dancer Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose in the studio on a posing block
Dancer Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose in a studio in black and white
Dancer Vivi Taggart showing her flexibility in the spider dance pose inside my studio
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose with a long red skirt

For more information on my dance ambassador program please go here. Accepting applications for next year starting June 2026.

Scarlet Sisters: Red‑y to Dance

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A Bold Winter Fine Art Dance Portrait Session

Two dancers in red bodysuits and red wigs posing artistically against a bold red backdrop for a fine art dance portrait session.
A study in red, rhythm, and connection. Ellery and Sydney brought a presence that turned this concept into something striking and unforgettable. Proud to have these two as part of my dance ambassador team. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Every now and then, a photo session comes along that feels like pure creative play — the kind where the concept, the dancers, and the energy all line up in the best possible way. My recent winter fine art dance portrait session with two of my dance ambassadors, Ellery (@its_ellevalentine) and Sydney (@squidneykdancer), was exactly that.

The spark for this session came from Ellery’s mom, Ariana. When she first shared the idea with me — red backdrop, red bodysuits, red wigs — I’ll admit I had a few reservations. It was bold. It was specific. It was a LOT of red. But the more we talked through the vision, the more it clicked. By the time we stepped into the studio, the concept had transformed into something striking, dramatic, and beautifully editorial.

What made the session truly unforgettable, though, was the friendship between these two dancers. Ellery and Sydney are best friends, and their connection shows up in every frame. My favorite part of the entire shoot — beyond the art we created — was the near‑constant laughter. They brought a joy and ease to the studio that elevated every moment.

And then came the finale.

By the end of the session, the tights had taken a beating. It was clear they weren’t going to survive another round, so the girls decided to go full Hulk Hogan and rip them off with all the dramatic flair they could muster. It was absolutely priceless — the perfect ending to a session already overflowing with personality.

Below are 10 of my favorite hero images from Scarlet Sisters: Red‑y to Dance — a concept that started as a spark and turned into something unforgettable.

Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Sydney performing an expressive dance pose in red wig and bodysuit during the Scarlet Sisters session.
Sydney performing an expressive dance pose in red wig and bodysuit during the Scarlet Sisters session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Fine art dance portrait of Ellery in red, showcasing strong lines and dramatic lighting on a red backdrop.
Fine art dance portrait of Ellery in red, showcasing strong lines and dramatic lighting on a red backdrop.
A study in red, rhythm, and connection. Ellery and Sydney brought a presence that turned this concept into something striking and unforgettable. Proud to have these two as part of my dance ambassador team. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

As a New Jersey dance photographer, these are the sessions that remind me why I love what I do — the blend of artistry, trust, personality, and the freedom to create something truly unique.

This session is part of my Winter Fine Art Dance Portraits, available now through the end of March. Sessions are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

Reserve your spot:
https://proofs.dabourphoto.com/booking/winter-fine-art-dance-portraits

A Winter Dance Portrait Session with Giules — Artistic, Bold, and Full of Heart

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A female dancer in a white leotard and flowing red skirt performing an expressive, mid-motion pose against a professional gray studio backdrop.
Artistic movement meets bold color: Giules’ Valentine-inspired artistic dance portrait in the studio.

There’s something special about photographing a dancer you’ve worked with for years — the trust, the creativity, and the freedom to push ideas a little further each time. This past weekend’s dance portrait session with Giules (@dancergiules) was the perfect example of that magic.

We started the session on a clean white backdrop, focusing on movement, lines, and the artistic flare that Giules brings so naturally. From there, we shifted into a Valentine‑themed series — soft reds, expressive shapes, and a mood that blended elegance with emotion. To finish, we moved onto a bold red backdrop, creating a dramatic contrast that highlighted her strength, control, and presence.

As a New Jersey dance photographer, these are the sessions I love most — the ones where a dancer’s personality and artistry shine through every frame. Giules always brings that spark, and this session was no exception.

Below are seven of my favorite images from the day, each capturing a different facet of her movement and style.

Artistic and Valentine Dance Portraits for Giules on February 14, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

If this session inspires you, now is the perfect time to book your own. My Winter Fine Art Dance Portraits are available for a limited time, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.
Reserve your spot here:

https://proofs.dabourphoto.com/booking/winter-fine-art-dance-portraits

Mia’s Dance Audition Portrait Session | Dance Audition Photos & Senior Dance Portraits

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I’ve had the pleasure of photographing Mia for several years now, and it’s honestly hard to believe she’s already a senior in high school. Watching dancers grow over time is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do, and Mia’s journey has been especially meaningful to witness.

This session was all about preparing for the next big chapter in Mia’s dance education and career. Mia came to me in need of a dance audition portrait session, designed specifically for dancers applying to college dance programs, university dance departments, and competitive dance intensives. Every audition session includes a clean, professional dance headshot along with dance audition photos that schools and programs require — images that clearly show technique, lines, strength, flexibility, and artistry.

Mia's dance audition headshot for college dance program applications, photographed by Dave Dabour Photography.
Action shot from Mia's dance audition portrait session with Dave Dabour Photography, showing strength and flexibility.
Professional dance audition portrait of Mia by Dave Dabour Photography, showcasing technical lines and artistic expression.
Dance audition portrait of Mia by Dave Dabour Photography, showcasing professional technique for university dance program applications.
Dance audition portraits for Mia with some artistic and senior portraits mixed in too. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Dance audition portrait of Mia by Dave Dabour Photography, captured for university dance program applications.
Dance audition portraits for Mia with some artistic and senior portraits mixed in too. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Artistic Dance Portraits

If time allows during a dance audition photoshoot, I always love when dancers stay a little longer to create more artistic dance portraits — and Mia truly shines in this space. She has an incredible ability to push past the obvious or “safe” pose and create images that feel expressive and intentional.

That creativity instantly reminded me of her Rain Machine dance photoshoot experience from a couple of years ago. Even then, Mia never went for the easy option. She explored shapes, movement, and emotion in a way that elevated every frame. That same mindset carried into this session, and together we created some truly beautiful dance art.

Dance audition portrait of Mia by Dave Dabour Photography, captured for university dance program applications.
Creative studio dance photography of Mia by Dave Dabour Photography, featuring unique posing and professional lighting.
Artistic dance portrait of Mia in a white outfit, performing a dynamic standing pose with one leg extended and arms reaching upward against a white studio background.
Mia creating a dynamic and sculptural dance shape in a studio setting, demonstrating artistic expression and movement.
Artistic dance portrait of Mia in a white outfit, performing a strong horizontal pose while balancing with her arms on a white studio block.
Artistic dance portrait of Mia in a white outfit, performing a deep backbend floor pose with one leg reaching toward the ceiling in a studio setting.

Senior Dance Portraits

Since Mia is also a high school senior, we incorporated senior dance portraits into her session as well. These images kept a strong dance influence while also celebrating her graduation year.

One of my favorite details was a meaningful graduation-year prop her mom created especially for her — a personal touch that tied her senior year into the images in such a thoughtful way. We also highlighted the two dance studios where Mia spent her years as a competition dancer, honoring the places that helped shape her training and growth.

Senior dance photography of Mia by Dave Dabour Photography, featuring custom 2026 graduation-year props for a high school senior portfolio.
Senior portrait of Mia wearing a graduation cap and gown, sitting behind large "2026" props in a professional studio setting.
Senior dance photography of Mia by Dave Dabour Photography, featuring custom graduation props and dance studio highlights for a 2026 senior portfolio.

Looking Ahead

Mia plans to apply as a dual major in dance and fashion, which feels like the perfect combination for someone with her creativity, movement quality, and eye for detail. I can’t wait to see what she creates next, and I have no doubt she’ll excel in whatever path she chooses.

It’s been an absolute joy documenting her journey over the years — from creative experiments to major milestones like this one. Sessions like Mia’s are a reminder of why professional dance portraits and audition photos are about so much more than just images. They’re about preserving growth, passion, and possibility.

You can follow Mia’s journey on Instagram: @miatolomeo

Interested in a dance audition or senior portrait session? Reach out to schedule your own experience and let’s create something meaningful together.

Steel and Silk: A Fine Art Dance and Military Portrait Session

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Brother and Sister Bryan and Addy pose for some portraits before Bryan deploys. January 31, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Some photo sessions are carefully planned.
Others are carefully felt.

Steel and Silk became both.

This personal project began as a fine art portrait concept exploring two very different disciplines—military service and dance—through siblings who embody commitment, structure, and quiet strength in their own ways. One wears a United States Marine Corps uniform earned through service and sacrifice. The other trains her body daily in pursuit of grace, control, and artistry.

On paper, it was simple.
In practice, it became something much more personal.

The Plan (and the Pivot)

Going into the session, I was told that Addy, the dancer, was no longer on pointe this year. The concept shifted naturally toward training, growth, and becoming rather than arrival. As a dance photographer, I’ve learned that some of the most meaningful images live in that in-between space.

Then came one of those unplanned moments that personal projects seem to invite.

Addy discovered she fit into an extra pair of pointe shoes I had in the studio—and offered to wear them for a few images.

Those photographs weren’t about technique or proving readiness. They were about choice. About possibility. About meeting the moment when it presents itself. Silk, quite literally, meeting steel.

Brother and Sister Bryan and Addy pose for some portraits before Bryan deploys. January 31, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Meeting Bryan

This was my first time meeting Addy’s older brother, Bryan, who recently became a United States Marine.

From the start, Bryan carried himself with intention. Polite, composed, and focused, he knows exactly what he wants and how to work toward it—while still keeping a sense of humor along the way. As he moved through the session, transitioning from his Service Charlies to his Blues cover, you could see the shift from brother to Marine, from approachable to iconic.

Both were authentic. Both mattered.

A side-by-side comparison of a U.S. Marine posing in two different uniforms: the Service Charlie tan shirt and blue trousers on the left, and the formal Dress Blue uniform with white cover on the right.
A side-by-side comparison of a U.S. Marine posing in two different uniforms: the Service Charlie tan shirt and blue trousers on the left, and the formal Dress Blue uniform with white cover on the right.

Family in the Spaces Between

What stood out most during this session wasn’t just the contrast between military precision and dance discipline—it was the ease between them.

The way they stood shoulder to shoulder.
The way Bryan instinctively grounded himself as Addy balanced nearby.
The way both relaxed once the formality dropped.

It was immediately clear this is a close family. The kind of closeness that doesn’t need explanation—it reveals itself in posture, glances, and shared laughter once the camera lowers.

Those are always my favorite frames. The ones that can’t be forced.

A U.S. Marine in his Dress Blue uniform playfully carries his sister, a ballet dancer in a white dress, as they both laugh during a portrait session.
Brother and Sister Bryan and Addy pose for some portraits before Bryan deploys. January 31, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Winter Fine Art Dance Portraits

In addition to the sibling portraits, I also created a series of solo dance images of Addy that aligned with the fine art aesthetic of my Winter Fine Art Dance Portrait Sessions.

These portraits focus on artistry over performance—clean lines, expressive movement, and a timeless visual style that allows dancers to be seen not just as students, but as artists. Winter light, controlled movement, and minimal styling create space for emotion and form to take center stage.

The result is a body of work that complements Steel and Silk while standing on its own—quiet, intentional, and deeply personal.

A ballet dancer in a white dress and red hat holds a bouquet of red roses while leaning back in a graceful side profile pose against a dark studio background.
A ballet dancer in a white dress and red hat holds a bouquet of red roses while leaning back in a graceful side profile pose against a dark studio background.
A ballet dancer in a white dress and red hat holds a bouquet of red roses while leaning back in a graceful side profile pose against a dark studio background.

Why “Steel and Silk” Still Fits

Even with the unexpected pointe shoes, the title never changed.

Because Steel and Silk isn’t really about footwear or uniforms.
It’s about balance. Contrast. Mutual respect.

It’s about two paths that demand discipline, resilience, and sacrifice—expressed through very different languages. One sharp and structured. One fluid and expressive. Both asking everything of the people who choose them.

This session didn’t go exactly as planned.

It went better.

Closing Thoughts

Personal projects have a way of reminding us to stay open. To trust the people in front of the lens. To understand that deviations aren’t failures—they’re invitations.

I’m grateful to Addy and Bryan for trusting me with their story, and to their family for allowing me to witness a small piece of what clearly runs much deeper.

Steel and Silk will always be about that balance.

Interested in a Fine Art Dance Portrait Session?

My Winter Fine Art Dance Portrait Sessions are designed for dancers who want images that go beyond technique—portraits that highlight artistry, expression, and the discipline behind the movement.

These sessions are intentionally limited and tailored to each dancer, creating work that feels timeless, personal, and worthy of both portfolio and print.

If you’re interested in learning more or reserving a session, I’d love to talk.

Learn more about Winter Fine Art Dance Portrait Sessions

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.