Every year, there are a few events on my photography calendar that I genuinely look forward to, and the Mary Help of Christians Dance Showcase is always right at the top of the list. Capturing the energy, movement, and sheer talent of these students never fails to inspire me.
The Magic of Great Instruction
A massive part of what makes this program so incredible is their dance instructor, Hannah Battista. Because Hannah is a talented dancer herself, she brings a level of authentic expertise, empathy, and passion to the floor that completely transforms her students. You can see the trust they have in her reflected in every routine—whether they are holding a flawless ballet pose or executing a high-energy contemporary piece.
A Unique Approach to Fitness
One of the most amazing things about the MHC Dance program is how the school integrates it into the curriculum. Instead of traditional gym classes, the girls are actually allowed to take dance class in lieu of physical education! It’s a brilliant way to keep students active, engaged, and passionate about physical fitness. They aren’t just running laps; they are learning choreography, spatial awareness, teamwork, and artistic expression.
Showcase Highlights
This year’s showcase was nothing short of spectacular. I’ve put together a collage of some of my absolute favorite moments from the performance, capturing a mix of clean studio portraits and the vibrant, dramatic energy of the live stage production.
Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph a branding session for a Pilates studio owner in Flemington, NJ. As a New Jersey photographer, sessions like this are a great example of how strong, intentional imagery can help small businesses stand out and connect with their audience.
Laura, owner of Evolution Pilates Studio, has been working in Pilates for over 20 years. That level of experience really shows — not just in her instruction, but in how she connects with her clients. From the moment we started shooting, it was clear that her approach is both professional and welcoming, which is exactly what you want when trying something like Pilates for the first time.
Evolution Pilates Studio Flemington NJ by Laura Donatelli. Photo by DAVE DABOUR PhotographyEvolution Pilates Studio Flemington NJ by Laura Donatelli. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
A Branding Photoshoot Designed Around Real Interaction
For this session, the goal was to create a mix of:
Professional headshots
Branding images within the studio
Real client interaction
Natural, candid moments that reflect Laura’s teaching style
We worked in a smaller studio space, which actually helped create a more personal and approachable feel in the images. Laura brought in two clients for part of the session, and rather than overly posing anything, I had her simply teach as she normally would.
That approach always leads to the strongest results.
The final images feel authentic — showing not just what Pilates looks like, but what it feels like to be in one of her sessions.
Evolution Pilates Studio Flemington NJ by Laura Donatelli. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Content That Works Across Website and Social Media
Like many small business owners, Laura needed images that could work across multiple platforms, including:
Website and landing pages
Instagram and social media
YouTube content
Print and promotional materials
As a branding photographer in NJ, my goal in sessions like this is to create a versatile image library — giving business owners a consistent, professional look wherever they show up online.
Why Branding Photography Matters for Fitness & Wellness Businesses
Evolution Pilates Studio Flemington NJ by Laura Donatelli. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
For Pilates studios and other service-based businesses, photography plays a huge role in building trust.
Potential clients want to see:
Who they’ll be working with
What the space looks like
How sessions are guided
The overall feel of the experience
Strong branding photography helps answer those questions before someone even picks up the phone.
Looking for Pilates in Flemington, NJ?
If you’re in Flemington, NJ or the surrounding areas and are considering Pilates, I highly recommend reaching out to Laura at Evolution Pilates Studio.
With over 20 years of experience, she offers a level of knowledge and personal attention that’s hard to find. Whether you’re new to Pilates or more experienced, her studio provides a welcoming and professional environment.
Evolution Pilates Studio 122 Main Street, Suite 8 Flemington, NJ 08822 📞 908.291.8325 🌐 https://evolutionnj.com
Need Branding Photography for Your Business?
If you’re a small business owner in Flemington, NJ or anywhere in New Jersey looking to update your branding images, feel free to reach out.
Whether you’re in fitness, wellness, or another service-based industry, I can help create a set of images that reflect your business, connect with your audience, and elevate your online presence.
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.
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 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.
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.
There is something incredibly special about watching a performer grow up through my camera lens. I have had the absolute privilege of photographing Addy @addyson.hubert for many years now, starting from her early days at ShowBiz Kidz Dance Studio.
Addy isn’t just a talented dancer; she is a true collaborator. She has been a “pro” in some of my most creative and demanding sessions, from the high-energy Rain Experience to the messy, artistic Powder Sessions. Her ability to bring grace and athleticism to every frame is truly remarkable.
Family, Strength, and Celebration
Brother and Sister Bryan and Addy pose for some portraits before Bryans deploys. January 31, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Most recently, I had the honor of capturing some beautiful portraits of Addy with her brother. Seeing her alongside a proud US Marine was a touching reminder of the strength and love within her family.
Now, as she reaches this milestone “Sweet 16,” I am so excited to be there to capture the party! It is an honor to document these core memories for Addy and her family as she begins this next exciting chapter.
Happy Birthday, Addy! Keep dancing, keep shining, and enjoy every second of your big day!
Some of my recent favorite dance portraits of Addy:
Brother and Sister Bryan and Addy pose for some portraits before Bryan deploys. January 31, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR PhotographyBrother and Sister Bryan and Addy pose for some portraits before Bryan deploys. January 31, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Skirt and Scarves dance portraits at West Jersey Youth Ballet on Sunday September 8, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Some dancers grow in quiet, steady ways — the kind of progress you only notice when you’ve photographed them over many seasons. Olivia Klein (@oliviaklovesballet) is one of those dancers. She has been with me since the very beginning of my ambassador program, and every time she steps in front of my camera, she brings a little more strength, artistry, and confidence than the time before.
Olivia currently dances with West Jersey Youth Ballet (@westjerseyyouthballet), where her dedication shows in every rehearsal and every performance. What amazes me most about Olivia is how consistently she improves. She shows up ready to work, ready to grow, and ready to give her all — whether we’re shooting something classic, creative, or completely new.
She’s also closely connected to several of my other ambassadors. Olivia and Vivi are great friends and often join forces for dance portrait sessions, feeding off each other’s energy and artistry. And her younger sister, Brielle, has become a familiar face at specialty sessions — often jumping in with Olivia for portraits together. It’s been a joy watching Olivia’s world expand through dance, friendships, and family.
Olivia always makes an impact when she’s in front of my camera. She brings a quiet determination, a thoughtful presence, and a genuine love for dance that shines through every image we create together. I’m grateful to have her as one of my original ambassadors and look forward to seeing where her dedication takes her next.
Some of my favorite images of Olivia:
Skirt and Scarves dance portraits at West Jersey Youth Ballet on Sunday September 8, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
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.
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.
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:
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.
Dance audition portraits for Mia with some artistic and senior portraits mixed in too. Photo by DAVE DABOUR PhotographyDance 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.
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.
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.
