Spring 2026 Season Wrap-Up: Growth, Speed, and a Record-Breaking Year (So Far)

Posted on July 6, 2026 by dabourphoto

Spring 2026 has officially come to a close, and I’m incredibly proud to share just how busy, productive, and rewarding this season has been. As a full‑time professional photographer and videographer, I take great pride in delivering high‑quality work quickly, consistently, and with the level of care my clients deserve. This spring pushed me harder than ever — and I’m thrilled to say I delivered across the board.

An infographic illustrating the core pillars of Dabour Photography’s service: Speed (fast turnarounds and efficient execution), Reliability (consistent performance and trusted results), and Professionalism (expert team and commitment to excellence).

A Season Defined by Speed, Reliability, and Professionalism

One of the biggest advantages of working with a full‑time photographer is turnaround time. When families, studios, and directors trust me with their memories, I make it a priority to get those images and videos back to them quickly.

This spring, I delivered:

37,402 edited images
32 fully produced videos
- 15 dance recitals
- 17 theater productions

Photo galleries were delivered within 24–48 hours, and videos were completed within 7–10 days — even during weeks when I was double or triple booked. Fast, reliable delivery isn’t a luxury here; it’s the standard.

Welcoming Two New Dance Studios

I’m honored to have added Vibe Dance Academy and Cressman Dance Studio to my growing list of studio partners this season. Both studios brought incredible dancers, beautiful choreography, and supportive communities. I’m grateful for their trust and excited for everything we’ll create together in the future.

Video Performance: A Record Year Already

Year-to-date, my recital and production videos have seen:

2,500+ total views
1,000+ unique viewers
500+ hours watched
Nearly 4,000 total loads

And unsurprisingly, mobile devices continue to dominate how families watch their performances.

A dynamic live performance captured on stage during the 2026 Freddy Awards ceremony in Easton, PA.

The 2026 Freddy Awards: A Milestone Moment

This year’s Freddy Awards were a highlight of the season. Interest in the photos was incredibly strong, and the gallery saw over a quarter of a million visitors — a staggering number that speaks to the passion and pride of the Lehigh Valley theater community.

As the official Freddy Awards photographer since 2013, it’s always an honor to capture the energy, emotion, and artistry of this event. This year was truly special.

A colorful graphic saying "Thank You" to express gratitude to studio partners, dancers, and photography assistants for their support during the Spring 2026 season.

Gratitude for the People Who Make This Possible

None of this happens alone.

To the studios, directors, dancers, parents, and performers — thank you for trusting me with your memories. Your support fuels everything I do.

To my photo assistants — your help during the busiest weeks keeps everything running smoothly, and I’m grateful for your dedication.

And a special shout-out to Stephanie, my assistant videographer, who steps in whenever I’m double or triple booked. Her reliability and talent make it possible for me to take on the volume of work that defines seasons like this one.

Dabour Photography dance ambassadors at the State Theatre of the Arts on Sepember 23, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Dynamic outdoor dance portrait by Dabour Photography featuring dance ambassador Lily performing an elegant, graceful leap on the boardwalk against the backdrop of the Asbury Park beach, NJ. — Dabour Photography dance ambassadors at the State Theatre of the Arts on Sepember 23, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Looking Ahead: Summer & Fall 2026

The momentum doesn’t stop here.

This summer will feature:

Powder Experience photo sessions
Rain Machine Experience sessions
Special destination photo opportunities

And this fall, I’ll be kicking off Year Three of my Dance Ambassador Program — the largest ambassador team yet. I can’t wait to showcase their artistry, creativity, and passion.

My calendar for the second half of 2026 is already filling up, and bookings for early 2027 have begun as well.

Interested in Working Together?

If you’d like to:

Book a Powder Experience session
Apply to become one of my Dance Ambassadors
Schedule photography or videography services for your studio, school, or event

Now is the perfect time to reach out. I’d love to create something unforgettable with you.

ARC Performing Arts Brings Frozen Kids to Life

Posted on June 1, 2026 by dabourphoto

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when young performers step onto a stage — that moment when nerves turn into confidence, when imagination becomes storytelling, and when a familiar tale feels brand new again. ARC Performing Arts’ recent production of Frozen Kids captured that magic beautifully.

From the opening scene to the final bow, this cast poured their hearts into the world of Arendelle. Their energy, teamwork, and commitment to character made every moment feel vibrant and full of life. Photographing this production was a joy — not just because of the costumes and staging, but because of the emotion these performers brought to every beat of the story.

A Cast That Shined in Every Scene

Whether it was the warmth of sisterhood, the humor woven throughout the show, or the dramatic moments that held the audience still, these young actors delivered performances far beyond their years. Their expressions, movement, and connection to one another made for some truly memorable images.

Cast members in costumes from the ARC Performing Arts production of Disney’s Frozen KIDS performing on stage, including Elsa in a blue gown, Anna in her signature dress, and Olaf

A group of young performers in costumes from the ARC Performing Arts production of Disney’s Frozen KIDS, including a student dressed as Olaf with his arms raised, performing on stage.

Storytelling Through Movement and Music

One of the things I love most about photographing youth theater is capturing the moments that happen between the lines — the gestures, the reactions, the shared glances that reveal the heart of the story. This production was full of them.

From lively group numbers to emotional turning points, the cast brought a wonderful blend of enthusiasm and focus to the stage. Their dedication shows in every frame.

A dynamic dance ensemble scene from the ARC Performing Arts production of Frozen KIDS featuring Anna and Kristoff performing with the cast on stage.

Elsa and Anna standing center stage in their signature costumes during the ARC Performing Arts production of Frozen Kids.

Behind the Scenes of a Magical Production

ARC Performing Arts continues to create an environment where young performers feel supported, challenged, and inspired. It’s clear in the way they take risks, collaborate, and celebrate each other’s successes. As a photographer, it’s a privilege to witness that growth and capture the moments families will treasure for years.

Young performers in Arendelle royal costumes kneeling on stage during the ARC Performing Arts production of Frozen KIDS. — ARC Performing Arts presents ‘Frozen Kids’ pn May 28, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

A young performer in a blue gown and tiara portraying Elsa during the ARC Performing Arts production of Frozen KIDS. — ARC Performing Arts presents ‘Frozen Kids’ pn May 28, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

View the Full Gallery

Cast members already have this link and the special code to download the digital images. Family members can also purchase prints and gifts from Frozen Kids here: https://proofs.dabourphoto.com/gallery/ARC-FrozenKids

Prints, packages, and digital downloads are available.

Looking Ahead

Thank you to ARC Performing Arts for inviting me to capture another wonderful production. I’m already excited to see what stories they bring to the stage next — and to continue documenting the creativity, courage, and joy these young performers bring to every rehearsal and performance.

Curtains Up! 2026 Freddy Awards Official Photos Are Now Available

Posted on May 23, 2026 by dabourphoto

The energy, the raw talent, the tears of joy, and the jaw-dropping choreography—the 2026 Freddy Awards completely blew us away this year! As the official photographer capturing the magic on stage, I am absolutely thrilled to announce that the complete, high-resolution photo gallery is **officially live and open for viewing and purchasing**.

Whether you were a nominee under the bright lights, part of an ensemble that brought the house down, a proud director, or a family member cheering from the audience, these images were captured to help you preserve these memories forever.

🎨 **View the Official Gallery Here:** https://www.dabourphotography.com/event/Freddy-Awards-2026
🌐 **Explore More Theater Work:** Visit our main theatrical portfolio at https://dabourphoto.com/theatre

The Freddy Awards celebrate the absolute best in high school musical theatre, and this year’s production values reached spectacular new heights. From gravity-defying athletic leaps to dramatic, emotionally charged vocal performances, every single school brought unparalleled dedication to the stage.

Through the lens, my goal is always to freeze those split-second moments—the perfect mid-air split, the subtle interactions between lead characters, and the explosive color of the ensemble numbers.

Why Purchase Your Professional Action Prints & Digitals?

Unmatched Quality: Moving stages, dramatic theatrical lighting, and fast action are notoriously hard to capture. These images are shot on professional-grade gear specifically optimized for low-light, high-speed stage performances.

Keep the Memory Alive: High school theatre builds lifelong bonds. Having high-quality digital downloads or physical prints ensures you can look back on your performance decades from now with pride.

Perfect for Portfolios: If you are planning to pursue musical theatre, acting, or technical stage production in college or professionally, these images serve as flawless portfolio additions.

How to Find, View, and Purchase Your Photos

Navigating a massive event gallery can feel overwhelming, so we’ve streamlined the process to make finding your specific school or performance a breeze:

1. Click the Gallery Link: Go directly to the hosted platform at (https://www.dabourphotography.com/event/Freddy-Awards-2026).

2. Browse by Category or School: Images are organized chronologically and by section to help you jump right to your school’s performance, the award presentations, or the red carpet.

3. Select Your Favorites: You can select digital downloads for instant social media sharing or order professional-grade physical prints, canvases, and keepsakes delivered straight to your door.

*Note: For general inquiries about our performance schedules or booking for upcoming local theatre productions, head to our main site at https://dabourphoto.com/theatre.

Share Your Success!

When you post your purchased photos on Instagram or Facebook, don’t forget to tag us @davedabour_photography or @DabourPhotography and use the hashtag #FreddyAwards2026 so we can celebrate your talent all over again!

Congratulations to all the schools, directors, cast, and crew members who made this year an unforgettable milestone in local theatre history.

Showtime! Live from the State Theatre for the 2026 Freddy Awards

Posted on May 21, 2026 by dabourphoto

The wait is over. The red carpet is rolled out, the “on-air” lights are glowing, and the energy inside the State Theatre in Easton is absolutely off the charts. Tonight is the culmination of months of hard work, talent, and passion from high school theater departments across the Lehigh Valley and beyond.

It’s the 2026 Freddy Awards, and there is truly nothing like it.

The Electricity of Live TV

Walking into the theater on show night is a sensory experience. You have the roar of the student sections, the flash of the paparazzi on the red carpet, and the silent, focused intensity of the WFMZ-TV crew as they prepare for a three-hour live broadcast. For a photographer, this is the ultimate challenge and the ultimate reward.

From the second the opening number begins until the final trophy is handed out, my goal is to capture the raw, unscripted emotion of the night. Whether it’s the tearful embrace of a supporting actor winner, the sheer athleticism of an ensemble production number, or the quiet moment of a soloist taking their final bow—these are the memories that deserve to be preserved forever.

A Community United

What always amazes me about the Freddys is the community. While these schools are technically “competing,” the atmosphere backstage and in the house feels more like a massive family reunion. Rivalries are set aside for a shared love of the stage. Watching 31 schools come together to celebrate each other’s successes is what makes being the official photographer for this program such an honor year after year.

Relive the Night: The 2026 Galleries

The show may end tonight, but the memories don’t have to. I am working around the clock to process and upload the thousands of images captured throughout this week—from the early soloist rehearsals to tonight’s grand finale.

Parents, Cast, and Crew: You can view, share, and purchase your favorite moments from tonight’s historic show, as well as our complete archive from years past, at the link below:

👉 Dabour Photography Freddy Awards Hub

Keep refreshing the gallery throughout the weekend as new batches of 2026 photos drop!

Congratulations to every student, teacher, and volunteer who made the 2026 Freddy Awards a night to remember. Now, let’s get the show started!

Some of my favorite images from last year’s 2025 Freddy Awards

Capturing the Magic: Hunterdon Hills Ballet Presents Sleeping Beauty

Posted on May 15, 2026 by dabourphoto

I have had the pleasure of photographing and recording video for Hunterdon Hills Ballet for several years now, and every season, I am struck by the same thing: the talent on that stage is absolutely first-class.

While the spring season usually brings a variety of different performances, this year the school “changed it up” by staged the timeless classic, Sleeping Beauty. It was a magnificent production, filled with vibrant costumes, intricate choreography, and the high-level artistry I’ve come to expect from these dedicated dancers.

Below are some of my favorite highlights from the recent production:

Three ballet dancers on stage during a performance of Sleeping Beauty; two dancers in the background hold a large, circular floral arch over a lead dancer in a light blue and grey costume performing a graceful pose. — The colorful “Fairies” ensemble from Hunterdon Hills Ballet’s 2026 production of Sleeping Beauty.

A male and female ballet dancer performing a dramatic lift on stage during Sleeping Beauty; the female dancer is in a white and pink feathered tutu being supported in a graceful pose by her partner, while other dancers in blue tutus watch from the background. — The colorful “Fairies” ensemble from Hunterdon Hills Ballet’s 2026 production of Sleeping Beauty.

Looking Ahead: Auditions and The Nutcracker

Partnering with Hunterdon Hills Ballet is always a highlight of my year, and I’m already looking forward to our future collaborations. Whether it’s capturing the grandeur of a full production or working one-on-one with students, I am constantly inspired by their grace.

With fall just around the corner, The Nutcracker will be here before we know it! Now is the perfect time for dancers to update their portfolios. If you are in need of:

Professional Dance Audition Photos
Updated Headshots
Creative Dance Portrait Sessions

I would love to work with you to capture your best light. Feel free to reach out to book your session!

Behind the Scenes: The Soloist Rehearsals Begin!

Posted on May 13, 2026 by dabourphoto

On Monday evening, the theater was buzzing with a special kind of electricity. This wasn’t just any rehearsal—it was the first time this year’s nominated soloists stepped onto the stage to work with the live band.

The atmosphere was a mix of intense focus and pure talent. Each performer, both male and female nominees, had just 60 seconds to make their mark. Watching them distill their character and vocal power into a one-minute solo is always a highlight of the season.

These “mini-performances” are high stakes and high energy, and capturing those raw moments of preparation—before the costumes and the stage lights take over—is truly special.

I’ve selected a few of my favorite shots from the evening below to give you a glimpse of the hard work happening behind the curtain.

Want to see more? To view and purchase more Freddy Award images from this year and past years, please visit: Dabour Photography – Freddy Awards 2026

A female nominated soloist for the 2026 Freddy Awards performing her musical theater solo rehearsal with a microphone on stage. — First rehearsal for the solos in the 2026 Freddy Awards on May 11, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Patrick from Southern Lehigh, a 2026 Freddy Awards nominated soloist, singing during his first rehearsal with the band in the theater. — First rehearsal for the solos in the 2026 Freddy Awards on May 11, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Behind the Scenes: The 2026 Freddy Awards Journey Begins!

Posted on May 8, 2026 by dabourphoto

The air was electric at the State Theatre of the Arts in Easton, PA, as we officially kicked off the 2026 Freddy Awards season. As I walked through the doors for the first rehearsal, it hit me—this marks my 14th year as the official photographer for this incredible program. Seeing the talent, the nerves, and the sheer excitement of these students never gets old.

Checking In and Catching Up

A candid look at the professional preparation required for the 2026 Freddy Awards. This image shows key production leaders and music directors collaborating over their scores at the State Theatre of the Arts in Easton, PA. These coordination moments ensure a seamless experience for the hundreds of high school students participating in the awards program. Professionally photographed by DAVE DABOUR Photography.

Three high school students wearing matching yellow "Big Fish" musical T-shirts stand at a table and sign in during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal at the State Theatre.

The day began with the “official” side of show business. Students from high schools across the region arrived to sign paperwork and register, but the real magic happened in the hallways. It was a morning of “meeting old friends”—watching students from rival schools greet each other like family, bonded by their shared love of the stage.

The Work Behind the Magic

A wide shot from the back of a rehearsal hall at the State Theatre of the Arts, showing Shelly Brown addressing a large group of high school students seated in rows on the carpet during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.

Kori, the Freddy Awards coordinator, stands in a rehearsal room wearing a black t-shirt and jeans, gesturing with her hands while speaking to a group of high school students seated behind her.

Once the paperwork was settled, it was time to get to work. The first rehearsal is always an intensive dive into the production:

Learning the Music: Music directors led the ensemble through the vocal arrangements for this year’s opening and closing numbers. There is nothing quite like hearing those first harmonies ring out in the rehearsal hall.
Choreography in Motion: Freddy Awards choreographer Stacy Higgins wasted no time getting the students on their feet. Watching the transition from tentative steps to a synchronized ensemble is one of my favorite things to document.

Words of Inspiration

Shelly Brown, President and CEO of the State Theatre, wearing a striped blazer and smiling, stands next to a piano while addressing a group of high school students during the 2026 Freddy Awards rehearsal.

We were honored to have State Theatre President and CEO Shelly Brown address the participants. Her passion for the arts and her dedication to these students set the perfect tone for the season ahead.

A Legacy of Performance

High school theater students in casual attire perform a synchronized dance routine with their arms raised in artistic poses during the first rehearsal for the 2026 Freddy Awards. — First rehearsal for the 2026 Freddy Awards on May 7, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Documenting the Freddy Awards for over a decade has allowed me to see the profound impact this program has on our community. From the first signature at the check-in table to the final bow on the State Theatre stage, I am honored to capture every moment of this journey.

Stay tuned as we continue to follow the rehearsals leading up to the big night!

All my Freddy Awards images can be found here. They are available for viewing and purchase https://www.dabourphotography.com/Freddy-Awards

Happy Birthday, Hope! Celebrating Our Dance Ambassador & Miss New Jersey Candidate

Posted on May 7, 2026 by dabourphoto

Happy Birthday, Hope! Today, we are turning up the music and striking a pose for a very special member of the Dabour Photography family. Please join me in wishing a very Happy Birthday to our wonderful Dance Ambassador, Hope!

A Multi-Talented Force in Motion Hope is far more than just a “face” for our studio; she is a powerhouse of creativity and discipline. As a fantastic dancer and an innovative choreographer, she brings a unique perspective to every session we create together. Watching her translate emotion into movement is always a highlight of my work, and her artistic growth over the years has been nothing short of inspiring.

The Road to Miss New Jersey Beyond the dance studio, Hope is currently on a mission that requires just as much grace, poise, and dedication. She is officially in the quest to regain the Miss New Jersey crown!

At Dabour Photography, we believe in supporting the dreams of our ambassadors. That’s why I am thrilled to announce that I am officially sponsoring Hope in her pageant journey. From the stage lights of the theater to the spotlight of the pageant runway, Hope carries herself with a level of professionalism and kindness that makes her a true role model for young women across the state.

Join the Celebration Hope, we hope your day is as spectacular as one of your performances! We are so proud to have you representing our brand and even prouder to support you as you chase that crown.

Let’s show Hope some birthday love in the comments below!

Some of my favorite images with Hope:

Dance Ambassador Hope performing a dynamic leap in a black athletic outfit; she is enveloped in a vibrant cloud of blue and pink powder against a dark studio background.

Dance Ambassador Hope performing on pointe in a rain simulator; she is arched back with one arm raised as a dramatic spray of water droplets creates a halo effect around her against a dark background.

Final Bows in Arendelle: Catch SKIT’s ‘Frozen’ One Last Weekend

Posted on May 6, 2026 by dabourphoto

The Magic Continues at Voorhees High School It has been an incredible journey bringing Arendelle to Hunterdon County. After the success of our Charlotte Cast’s opening performances, the spotlight now shifts to the talented Sophia Cast as we head into our final weekend of production.

As a photographer for SKIT for over 30 years, I’ve seen countless stories come to life on the Voorhees stage, but there is something truly special about the energy this cast brings to these iconic characters. From the sisterly bond of Anna and Elsa to the hilarious antics of Olaf and Oaken, the Sophia cast has delivered a performance you won’t want to miss.

Exclusive Sneak Peek: The Sophia Cast

An actress portraying Elsa from the Sophia cast of SKIT’s Frozen performs on stage, standing atop a shimmering ice staircase with her arms outstretched in a powerful pose.

A performer portraying Olaf the snowman stands center stage in a plush costume with large coal-style buttons and a carrot nose during the Sophia cast production of Frozen.

Don’t Miss the Final Performances Time is running out to see this “Frozen” phenomenon in person. We have three final shows remaining this weekend:

Saturday, May 9th – 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Sunday, May 10th – 2:00 PM (Final Performance!)

Whether you’re coming to see your favorite performers for the first time or returning to relive the magic, we can’t wait to see you in the audience!

30 Years Behind the Lens: Capturing the Magic of SKIT’s ‘Frozen’

Posted on May 2, 2026 by dabourphoto

There is a unique kind of magic that happens when the house lights go down and the stage lights come up. For the past 30 years, I have had the distinct honor of serving as the official photographer for Show Kids Invitational Theatre (SKIT). From the very first production to this weekend’s upcoming performance, capturing the emotion, the movement, and the “big moments” of theater remains one of my greatest passions.

Last night, I had the pleasure of photographing the Charlotte Cast (one of two talented casts!) during their final rehearsals for Disney’s Frozen.

A Sneak Peek at Arendelle

The energy this cast brings to the stage is nothing short of “chilling”—in the best way possible. From the intricate costume details to the powerhouse vocal performances, this production is a visual masterpiece. As a photographer, my goal is always to freeze those fleeting moments of stagecraft so they can be remembered long after the final curtain call.

[Insert Gallery of 6–10 Images Here] *

The full Charlotte cast of SKIT’s Frozen stands together on stage in a diverse array of costumes, featuring lead characters like Elsa, Anna, and Kristoff in the front row during the curtain call or a major ensemble number. — Show pictures for SKIT’s production of ‘Frozen’ on April 30th, 2026. Charlotte cast. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

An actor portraying Kristoff stands at the center of the stage surrounded by cast members dressed as hidden folk (trolls) in mossy, leaf-covered costumes during SKIT’s production of Frozen. — Show pictures for SKIT’s production of ‘Frozen’ on April 30th, 2026. Charlotte cast. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Catch the Show

If you haven’t secured your seats yet, don’t miss the chance to see this story come to life at Voorhees High School.

Opening Night: This Saturday!
Tickets & Info: Visit www.showkids.org or purchase them at the door.

Supporting youth theater is so vital to our community, and I am proud to have documented three decades of these rising stars. See you at the show!

A Season Defined by Speed, Reliability, and Professionalism

Welcoming Two New Dance Studios

Video Performance: A Record Year Already

The 2026 Freddy Awards: A Milestone Moment

Gratitude for the People Who Make This Possible

Looking Ahead: Summer & Fall 2026

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A Cast That Shined in Every Scene

Storytelling Through Movement and Music

Behind the Scenes of a Magical Production

View the Full Gallery

Looking Ahead

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Why Purchase Your Professional Action Prints & Digitals?

How to Find, View, and Purchase Your Photos

Share Your Success!

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The Electricity of Live TV

A Community United

Relive the Night: The 2026 Galleries

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Checking In and Catching Up

The Work Behind the Magic

Words of Inspiration

A Legacy of Performance

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A Sneak Peek at Arendelle

Catch the Show

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