Every senior session has its own story, and Riley’s is one I won’t forget anytime soon. Riley and her family traveled all the way from North Carolina for her senior portraits — an honor that means more to me than I can put into words. When a family chooses to make that kind of trip, it adds a special layer of intention and excitement to the entire experience.
Riley is headed to Muhlenberg College this fall as a dance and theater major, so her mom planned something truly memorable: she rented the historic State Theatre Center for the Arts in Easton, PA as the backdrop for part of her session. Photographing Riley on that stage — a place filled with so much creative energy — felt like capturing her future before it even begins.
After our time in the theatre, we explored some of my favorite corners of downtown Easton, mixing classic senior portraits with creative, movement‑inspired images that reflect who Riley is as both a performer and a person.
Below is a sneak peek of a few favorites from her session — more to come soon.
Senior portraits for Riley Pfeiffer on March 31, 2026 in Easton, PA. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Thinking About Senior Portraits?
If you’re a rising senior or a parent planning ahead, I’d love to help you create a session that feels personal, meaningful, and uniquely yours. Whether you’re dreaming of a studio experience, a theatre backdrop, or exploring the streets of Easton, let’s start planning something unforgettable.
Some sessions feel less like a photoshoot and more like a collaboration — a shared creative rhythm where everything just clicks. My senior dance portrait session with Maddy, a dancer at West Jersey Youth Ballet, was exactly that kind of experience.
If you know Maddy, you know she’s one of those dancers who naturally draws people in. She’s admired by the younger dancers, trusted by her peers, and respected for her work ethic. But what makes photographing her truly special is her artistic eye. She doesn’t just do a pose — she shapes it, breathes into it, and elevates it.
A Session That Showed Every Side of Her
We started with a quiet, grounded moment: Maddy lacing up her pointe shoes, relaxed and smiling. It set the tone for the entire session — calm, focused, and full of intention.
From there, she moved effortlessly into bold, sculptural shapes. Deep lunges, dramatic backbends, and long, extended lines that filled the studio with energy. She has this rare ability to make strength look effortless and artistry look instinctive.
One of my favorite parts of the session was exploring more conceptual imagery. The umbrella pose — whimsical, elegant, and full of personality — felt like a perfect reflection of her creative spirit. And the green dress moment? Pure magic. The way the fabric caught the air as she turned created a sense of motion you could feel even in a still frame.
Preparing for What Comes Next
Alongside her dance portraits, we created a polished headshot for her upcoming summer internship auditions. Maddy has an exciting season ahead, and it was important to craft something that reflects not just her technique, but her maturity, confidence, and the thoughtful artist she’s becoming.
A Dancer With a Bright Future
Photographing seniors is always meaningful, but photographing a senior who brings this level of artistry is something I don’t take for granted. Maddy’s session was a celebration of everything she’s accomplished — and everything she’s stepping into next.
Below are a few of my favorite images from our time together. Each one captures a different facet of who she is: strong, expressive, creative, and deeply dedicated to her craft.
Artistic dance portraits for Maddy Gilleland on March 15, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
If you’re a dancer looking to create your own senior portraits — or preparing for auditions and need updated headshot — I’d love to help you craft something that feels authentically you. Contact me today.
Every ambassador brings something unique to the Dabour Photography family, but Hope brings a spark all her own. Although she was the last to officially join this year’s ambassador team, she is anything but last when it comes to talent, drive, and presence. Hope is one of those dancers who steps into a space and immediately elevates it — not just as a performer, but as a creator.
Hope is no stranger to the stage. She doesn’t just dance; she choreographs, shapes movement, and tells stories through motion. That artistic instinct shows up in every session we’ve done together. She understands lines, shapes, and emotion in a way that makes photographing her feel effortless.
Our journey actually started long before she became an ambassador. I first met Hope back in 2019 when she was Miss New Jersey, greeting the community with the same warmth and confidence she brings to the studio today. Not long after, she jumped in front of my camera again — this time as the featured dancer for a local community theater group. Even then, she had that unmistakable presence that makes you stop and pay attention.
Dance Ambassador Hope, @misscentraljerseycoastline_nj, making a splash during a Rain Machine Experience session. Photo by Dave Dabour Photography.
When I launched my Rain Machine Experience, Hope was one of the first to dive in — literally. She embraced the challenge, the mess, the drama, and created some of the most striking images from the entire series. And the moment the Powder Experience became available, she was right there again, ready to push boundaries and explore something new. That willingness to experiment, to trust the process, and to bring her full self to every concept is exactly what makes her such a powerful ambassador.
Beyond dance, Hope continues to shine in the pageant world. She is currently Miss Central Jersey Coastline (@misscentraljerseycoastline_nj), using her platform to engage in community initiatives, share life skills, and inspire others with her leadership. Her personal Instagram, @ki3hl, offers a glimpse into just how much she juggles — and how gracefully she does it.
Hope is just as busy as I am. She’s a full‑time high school teacher, a choreographer, and an active contributor to multiple community programs. Her ability to balance so many roles while still showing up with energy, creativity, and heart is nothing short of impressive.
And we’re not done yet. I’ll soon be working with Hope on a special project designed to help advance her career, and I’m genuinely excited for what’s ahead. Collaborating with her is always a privilege, and I look forward to continuing that journey in the future.
Hope may have been the final ambassador added to the team, but she closes this year’s spotlight series with strength, style, and a story that ties everything together. I’m grateful our paths crossed years ago, and even more grateful they continue to cross in new and exciting ways.
Here’s to Hope — dancer, choreographer, educator, creator, and an incredible addition to the Dabour Photography Dance Ambassador family.
Some dancers make an impression the moment you meet them — not because they’re the loudest in the room, but because of the quiet confidence they carry with them. Rylea (@balletlifeofrylea) is one of those dancers. This is her first year as one of my dance ambassadors, and from the very beginning she’s shown me exactly why she belongs here.
My first impression of Rylea was that she was soft‑spoken but approachable — the kind of dancer who listens, observes, and then surprises you with thoughtful conversation when you least expect it. In between locations during sessions, she’s always willing to chat, and not with one‑word answers either. She shares what she likes, what she’s working on, what inspires her. Those moments matter to me. They help me understand the dancer behind the technique.
I first met Rylea when she came to me for a headshot session for some summer intensives she wanted to apply to. Even then, I noticed her attention to detail. That trait showed up again during picture day at West Jersey Youth Ballet, her home studio. She reached out afterward because she noticed one of her poses wasn’t included in the final delivery. She wasn’t upset — she was curious. Was it blurry? Was something off? She genuinely liked the pose and wanted to understand. I checked, and she was absolutely right: it was a great image that somehow didn’t make the cut. That level of awareness is rare, especially in a younger dancer.
Fast forward to this year’s ambassador program. I put out a call looking for one or two volunteers to help me test a new location. Within 30 minutes, I had six replies. I figured that was more than enough… and then Rylea messaged me asking if it was too late. I told her I already had more dancers than I needed. Then she mentioned she lived in the town where the shoot was happening. That sealed it — of course she had to come. I invited her to join me the next evening while I was photographing senior portraits, and she fit right into the flow. But then she surprised me and showed up that night not expecting to be photographed – but to support her dance friends!
Dabour Photography dance ambassadors at the State Theatre of the Arts on September 23, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR PhotographyDabour Photography dance ambassadors at the State Theatre of the Arts on September 23, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
One of the moments that truly solidified her ambassador status happened at the State Theatre of the Arts in Easton, PA. Most of my ambassadors attended the invite‑only session, but Rylea’s mom let me know she had school picture day and could only stay for the first hour. So we made it work. We started with group portraits on the stage, and then I photographed Rylea first. She may be one of my younger ambassadors, but when she stepped onto that stage, she owned it. Her first few solo portraits were exactly the images I had envisioned when planning the entire event. She didn’t just rise to the occasion — she defined it.
Dance portraits during a photo walk in Easton, PA on Oct 26, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR PhotographyDance portraits during a photo walk in Easton, PA on Oct 26, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Since then, we’ve created even more together: studio sessions, artistic concepts, specialty portraits, and a photo walk in Easton with Elijah that turned into one of those perfect evenings — golden light, great energy, and portfolio‑level images at every stop.
Rylea is thoughtful, dedicated, and quietly powerful in a way that makes you pay attention. I’m grateful she’s part of this ambassador team, and I’m excited for the years ahead — especially the duets I already see forming in my mind.
Here’s to many more sessions, more creativity, and more beautiful art together.
Some of my favorite images created together so far:
Dabour Photography dance ambassadors at the State Theatre of the Arts on September 23, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Some dancers grow in front of your lens year after year, and watching that evolution is one of the best parts of what I do. Emma (@extendandelevate) is absolutely one of those dancers. Even though this is her first year as one of my dance ambassadors, I’ve been photographing her for years—and every session reminds me just how much talent, drive, and personality she brings to her art.
Emma is known for many things, but her incredible flexibility is always front and center. She gets into poses that make my back hurt, and I’m not even the one doing them! What amazes me most is how effortless she makes it all look. One moment she’s a poised, elegant young woman; the next she snaps into a bold, sassy pose like she flipped a switch from 0 to 100.
This past season, Emma stepped into the iconic role of Clara in her studio’s production of The Nutcracker. I had the chance to create some beautiful, artistic portraits of her in those costumes, and she brought such grace and storytelling to every frame. It’s a role that demands both technique and heart, and she delivered both with maturity beyond her years.
Emma is also one of those dancers who starts doing the pose before I even finish asking. She listens, interprets, and moves with instinct—and that makes every session with her a creative joy. Whether we’re working on clean classical lines, dramatic lighting, or something playful and expressive, she brings her whole self to the moment.
I’m grateful to have Emma in this year’s ambassador team, and I’m excited for all the portraits, ideas, and creative adventures still ahead. Watching her grow as both a dancer and an artist has been a privilege, and I look forward to photographing her for many more years to come.
Know a dancer or studio looking for artistic dance portraits? I’d love to help bring their vision to life—feel free to share my work or send them my way!
🗿 Gravity? Never heard of it. Elijah showing off some incredible core strength at Columcille Megalith Park.
Some dancers bring talent. Some bring personality. And some—like Elijah (@elijahtheboydancer)—bring a spark that lights up every session. This is Elijah’s first year as one of my dance ambassadors, and he has already shown that he’s not only a dedicated dancer but also a natural performer who feels completely at home on the stage and in front of the camera.
Dance portraits during a photo walk in Easton, PA on Oct 26, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about working with Elijah is his love for duets. He’s joined me for several sessions paired with another dancer, and every time, the results have been remarkable. He has a gift for connection—matching energy, shaping movement with a partner, and creating images that feel alive.
Elijah also surprised me in the best way when he asked to participate in my Dance Dads for a Cure fundraiser. I assumed he wanted to join with his mom—which would have been wonderful—but he had something more meaningful in mind. He wanted to dance with his dad. Elijah is incredibly proud of the support his dad gives him as a dancer, and after his dad faced some health challenges in the past, this was the first time they were able to do something like this together. Photographing the two of them was powerful, heartfelt, and something I’ll never forget.
Another thing you quickly learn about Elijah: he loves anything Halloween. So much so that he participated in my Spooky Portraits not once, but twice—and he came with more ideas than we could possibly fit into a single session. His creativity, enthusiasm, and imagination made those shoots unforgettable. And don’t worry, Elijah… we’ll get to the rest of your ideas next year.
🏰 Elijah perfectly framed by the historic stone architecture of Columcille Megalith Park.🧘 Finding balance among the giants. Elijah at Columcille Megalith Park.
Because Elijah is homeschooled, he sometimes has the flexibility to join daytime sessions. One of those opportunities turned into a standout moment this season: a collaborative outdoor session at Columcille with two other dance ambassadors. Together, they created some truly unique dance art—movement, landscape, and creativity blending into something special.
Elijah brings heart, humor, dedication, and originality to everything he does. I’m grateful he joined the ambassador team this year, and I’m excited to see what we create together next.
Finding balance in the unexpected. Amelia proves that dance is as much about the space you occupy as the movement itself. I love how the clean lines of the pedestal contrast with her fluid, athletic grace in this fine-art studio session.
Every once in a while, a dancer comes into your life in a way that feels almost meant to be. Amelia (@ameliarosedancer) is one of those dancers. My connection with her family goes back years—long before she ever stepped into my studio for dance portraits. When they first moved to New Jersey, I photographed their family as part of a fundraiser with the local school. They signed up each year, and it was such a joy watching the kids grow and getting to know them a little more each time.
Fast forward a few years, and I began photographing dancers at West Jersey Youth Ballet. During one of those sessions, a mom mentioned that another family recognized my name—they told her I had photographed them in the past. That’s when it clicked: Amelia’s family had found their way back into my life. And I’m so glad they did.
This is Amelia’s first year as a Dabour Photography Dance Ambassador, and she has already brought so much poise, grace, and quiet strength to every session. She’s one of those dancers who carries herself with maturity beyond her years—thoughtful, expressive, and beautifully intentional in her movement. We’ve created several portrait sessions together already, including the ambassador‑only session at the State Theatre of the Arts in Easton, PA, where she absolutely shined.
Her younger sister, Maddie, tags along from time to time, and she’s quickly proving to be a “chip off the old block”—full of talent, personality, and the same spark that makes this family so special.
One of the most exciting parts of Amelia’s journey right now is that she has recently begun going en pointe. It’s a milestone every dancer dreams of, and seeing her step into this next chapter is inspiring. I can’t wait to create the next level of portraits with her as she grows stronger, more confident, and even more expressive.
Working with Amelia has been a highlight of this ambassador season, and I’m looking forward to creating many more beautiful images together.
Molly perfectly capturing the “Spooky Season” vibe with this theatrical silhouette! Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography.
Some dancers bring a spark you recognize long before they ever step into your ambassador program. Molly (@mollystinson7) is one of those dancers. This is her first year as a Dance Ambassador, but I’ve known her for much longer thanks to her love of theater. She was part of the middle school theater group my wife used to direct, and even back then she stood out—fearless, expressive, and always ready to throw herself into a character.
Molly dances at Showbiz Kidz in Lopatcong, NJ, where she’s found her groove in tap, musical theater, and anything with a little dramatic flair. She has that rare combination of precision and personality—clean technique paired with a performer’s instinct to tell a story with every movement.
And then there’s her love of all things spooky.
As soon as she joined the ambassador team, she made it very clear she was counting down the days until my annual spooky portrait sessions. Once she stepped in front of the camera, it all made sense. Molly doesn’t just pose—she transforms. A tilt of the head, a shift in her expression, a perfectly timed gesture… suddenly the whole mood changes. She knows how to lean into the eerie, the dramatic, and the theatrical in a way that feels effortless.
Watching her work during that session was one of those moments where everything clicks. You see a dancer not just performing steps, but creating a character—bringing a little story to life in a single frame. It’s exactly why spooky portraits are her favorite, and exactly why she shines in them.
I’m excited to share some of my favorite images of Molly in this spotlight. Her first year as an ambassador has already been full of creativity, personality, and that unmistakable Molly energy. I can’t wait to see what she brings to the rest of the year.
Delaware Valley HS Theater presents ‘SpongeBob the Musical’ March, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
The energy at Delaware Valley Regional High School is electric this week as the Performing Arts Department prepares to open their vibrant and joy‑filled production of The SpongeBob Musical. I had the opportunity to photograph the cast during their final dress rehearsal, and the creativity, color, and heart they bring to the stage is something truly special.
Delaware Valley HS Theater presents ‘SpongeBob the Musical’ March, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Tonight, March 5, 2026, the students kick things off with a Senior Citizens Preview, followed by the official opening tomorrow, Friday, March 6th. The show runs for two weekends, giving the community plenty of chances to experience this underwater adventure brought to life.
A Talented Cast and Crew That Never Disappoints
Working with the DVRHS Performing Arts team is always a highlight of my year. I’ve had the privilege of photographing several of their past productions, and every time I’m reminded just how dedicated, talented, and passionate these students and staff are. Their shows consistently shine—many of these performers have earned Rising Star nominations and awards, and it’s easy to see why.
Delaware Valley HS Theater presents ‘SpongeBob the Musical’ March, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
This production is no exception. From bold costumes to expressive choreography to the comedic timing that makes SpongeBob such a fan favorite, the cast delivers a performance that’s both technically impressive and full of heart.
Capturing the Magic Onstage and On Video
In addition to photography, I’ll also be recording video for this production. It’s always exciting to help preserve these moments for the students, families, and the program—especially for a show as visually dynamic and character‑driven as this one.
A Sneak Peek at the Dress Rehearsal
Below are some of my favorite images from the final dress rehearsal. They capture the energy, color, and personality that make this show such a joy to watch—and to photograph.
Some dancers step in front of the camera with a quiet confidence that grows stronger every time you work with them. Lily (@lilyana.en_pointe) is one of those dancers. This is her first year in my Dance Ambassador program, and I’m genuinely glad she joined. She also happens to live very close to me—so when inspiration strikes or I need someone to test a new idea, she’s often the first person I reach out to. And if she’s available, she’s always up for it.
My earliest sessions with Lily were at her home studio, West Jersey Youth Ballet, where her technique and discipline were immediately clear. But it was our first out‑of‑studio session—sunflower portraits—that really showed me her dedication. Even in a completely different environment, she carried herself with the same focus and artistry she brings to the studio.
Sunflower dance portraits with Lily and Vivi on Aug. 9, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Her mom has been an incredible presence as well. As the Executive Director at WJYB and a dance teacher with over 30 years of experience, she brings a deep understanding of movement, lines, and artistry. Having her nearby during sessions is always a bonus.
One of the moments that stands out most for me was our outdoor dance session at the Silk Mill. Lily absolutely shined there. One of the portraits from that day remains one of my favorites of her—full of strength, grace, and that spark that makes her unique.
Dance portraits with some of my dance ambassadors at the Silk Mill in Easton, PA. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Because Lily is homeschooled, she has a flexibility in her schedule that many dancers don’t. That opened the door for several outdoor dance portrait sessions this year, taking full advantage of the beautiful weather. One of those sessions took us to Columcille, where she blended seamlessly into the natural, almost mystical landscape.
Dance ambassadors visit Columcille Megalith Park on Oct. 16, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Most recently, we wrapped up an artistic dance portrait session that highlights her growing talent and expressive ability. Each time we work together, she brings more confidence, more creativity, and more of her own voice to the images.
Artistic Dance Portraits for Lily with some Valentine theme too! Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
I’m excited to share several of my favorite images of Lily in this spotlight. She’s had a fantastic first year as an ambassador, and I’m looking forward to seeing how she continues to grow as both a dancer and an artist.
Head shot for Lily on February 10, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
![A group of Delaware Valley Regional High School ensemble dancers performing as [Sardine Devotees/Sea Anemones] in The SpongeBob Musical. They are wearing [green robes/pink showgirl costumes] and posing with high energy against a white background](https://i0.wp.com/dabour.photos/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/DelVal-SpongeBob1-Dabour-0580.jpg?ssl=1)
