The first rehearsal for the 2024 Freddy Awards took place this past Thursday evening. The first rehearsal is all about seeing old friends and learning new music and choreography.
Shelly Brown from the State Theater kicks off the night welcoming everyone to the 2024 Freddy Awards and then introduces the staff
After some music, it’s time for choreography
During a break, Freddy Award students sign the wall with their name, school and year
For the past 12 years, I’ve been photographing the Freddy Awards. What are the Freddy Awards? The short answer is they are the Tony Awards equivalent for High School theater in eastern PA and western NJ.
Above is a link to a video showing some of my images that are on display at the State Theater. The gallery is open on show nights for patrons that have tickets. See the State Theater’s show show calendar to find days.
In addition to what on display in the gallery, I have HUNDREDS if not thousands of additional images available for viewing and purchase on my Freddy Awards website. A portion of any images sold goes back to the Freddy Awards program.
Matilda played by Alayna Lino rehearses for their production of ‘Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical’ on March 19, 2024, at the high school.
As the curtains rose and the spotlight painted the stage, I found myself immersed in a world where imagination danced with reality. Warren Hills Regional High School’s production of Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical” was a tapestry of wonder, mischief, and heartwarming moments. As a professional photographer, I had the privilege of capturing this enchanting journey—one that unfolded through the lens of young performers, dedicated teachers, and the magic of live theater.
In Retrospect
“Matilda The Musical” wasn’t just a performance; it was a testament to the power of storytelling. Through my lens, I witnessed courage, friendship, and the indomitable spirit of youth. These photographs will forever hold the magic—the laughter, the tears, and the standing ovations.
New Jersey – Lehigh Valley Senior Portrait Photographer
Senior portraits for Alexis October 31, 2023. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
Senior year is a milestone filled with memories, anticipation, and a sense of transition. As a professional photographer, there’s a unique privilege in capturing this pivotal moment in a young person’s life. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Alexis, a vibrant senior from Phillipsburg High School, in a portrait session that celebrated her individuality, spirit, and achievements both on and off the track.
Alexis’s passion for running is evident in every aspect of her life. As a member of the cross country team, she embodies dedication, perseverance, and a drive to succeed. It was important to me to capture not only her athletic prowess but also the essence of who she is as a person – her personality, interests, and aspirations.
Senior portraits for Alexis October 31, 2023. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
From the moment we began our session, Alexis’s energy was contagious. Her smile lit up the frame as we explored different settings and poses, each one reflecting a different facet of her vibrant personality.
But senior portraits are about more than just capturing a single moment in time – they’re about telling a story. As we moved from location to location, I encouraged Alexis to express herself freely, allowing her personality to shine through in every frame. Whether she was posing with her favorite book or showing off her infectious smile, each image was a reflection of her unique spirit and character.
Senior portraits for Alexis October 31, 2023. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape, I knew we had captured something special. The images from our session were more than just photographs – they were a celebration of Alexis’s journey, her accomplishments, and the bright future that lies ahead.
Working with Alexis was an absolute pleasure, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have captured this momentous time in her life. Her passion, enthusiasm, and zest for life were truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that she will go on to achieve great things in the future.
Senior portraits for Alexis October 31, 2023. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
To Alexis and all the seniors embarking on this next chapter of their lives, may your journey be filled with adventure, growth, and endless possibilities. And may your senior portraits serve as a timeless reminder of the incredible person you are today and the bright future that awaits you tomorrow.
Silhouette and B&W dance portraits for Addie on March 10, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
As a professional dance photographer, I am continually inspired by the grace, beauty, and expressiveness of dancers. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Addie, a talented dancer from the Hunterdon Hills Ballet, in a silhouette dance portrait session that truly captured the essence of her artistry.
Silhouette photography has always held a special allure for me. There’s something magical about reducing a subject to its simplest form, emphasizing shape, form, and movement in their purest sense. When combined with the fluidity of dance, silhouettes can convey emotion and narrative with remarkable power.
Silhouette and B&W dance portraits for Addie on March 10, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
From the moment Addie stepped in front of my camera, I knew we were about to create something extraordinary. Her poise, confidence, and command of movement were evident as she effortlessly transitioned from one pose to the next. Against the backdrop of soft, diffused red light, her silhouette seemed to dance with a life of its own.
Silhouette and B&W dance portraits for Addie on March 10, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
One of the most remarkable aspects of working with Addie was her ability to convey a wide range of emotions through her movements. Whether she was executing a series of graceful arabesques or striking a dramatic pose, each silhouette told a story, inviting viewers to interpret and connect with the image on a personal level.
The session was a collaborative effort, with Addie bringing her own creativity and artistry to the process. Together, we experimented with different poses, angles, and lighting setups, constantly striving to push the boundaries of what was possible within the realm of silhouette photography.
Silhouette and B&W dance portraits for Addie on March 10, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
As the session progressed, I found myself increasingly in awe of Addie’s talent and dedication to her craft. Her passion for dance was palpable, shining through in every movement and gesture. It was clear that she approached her art with both discipline and joy, and I felt privileged to have the opportunity to capture that essence in my photographs.
In the end, the resulting images exceeded even my highest expectations. Each silhouette was a testament to the beauty and power of dance, frozen in time for eternity. Through Addie’s graceful movements and the interplay of light and shadow, we had created something truly magical – a series of portraits that captured the very soul of dance.
Silhouette and B&W dance portraits for Addie on March 10, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
Working with Addie was a joy and a privilege, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have collaborated with such a talented artist. Her passion, creativity, and dedication to her craft were an inspiration to me, and I look forward to the opportunity to work together again in the future.
In the world of dance photography, moments like these remind me why I fell in love with this art form in the first place. It’s not just about capturing beautiful images; it’s about telling stories, evoking emotions, and celebrating the incredible talent and creativity of the dancers who bring those stories to life. And with Addie, I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect muse.
I’ve had the pleasure of being the official photographer of the Freddy Awards for over 10 years at the State Theatre in Easton, PA. A few of my photographs from last year’s award ceremony are being featured on area billboards.
Family portraits for the Luyben family March 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
I’ve had the pleasure of photographing Emma before she was born. Wait, that sounds funny, let me explain. It started with my photographing her parents’ wedding. Then I did some maternity portraits for her. Then of course newborn portraits and ever since then on her birthday, her younger sister’s birthday and holiday portraits!
Family portraits for the Luyben family March 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
There are many things I love about this family. One of them is Emma likes to “review” my photos after taking them. This probably all started when she was even younger than her sister and was maybe not happy during a photo session. I showed her the images on the back of my camera, and she was hooked.
As a professional dance photographer, I have the privilege of capturing the beauty and strength of dancers every day. And on International Women’s Day, this celebration of women’s achievements and empowerment resonates even more deeply within the dance community.
International Women’s Day is a global day dedicated to honoring the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It’s a day to recognize the progress made towards gender equality and to acknowledge the work that still lies ahead. As a photographer who specializes in capturing the artistry and passion of dance, I believe that this day holds particular significance for the dance world.
Dance has always been a powerful form of expression, allowing individuals to communicate emotions, tell stories, and inspire change. Throughout history, women have played a central role in shaping the world of dance, from pioneering new techniques to breaking down barriers and challenging societal norms. International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of these trailblazing women and to reflect on the continued importance of gender equality within the dance community and beyond.
As a photographer, I am committed to using my art to uplift and empower women through imagery. I strive to capture the strength, grace, and resilience of female dancers, highlighting their talent and dedication on and off the stage. Through my lens, I aim to showcase the diversity and complexity of women’s experiences, celebrating their achievements and inspiring future generations of dancers.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the remarkable women who have paved the way for change in the dance world and beyond. Let’s amplify their voices, support their dreams, and work together towards a more inclusive and equitable future. And let’s continue to use the power of dance and photography to uplift and empower women everywhere.
Easton, PA – March 6, 2024 – Dave Dabour Photography proudly announces the grand opening of its highly anticipated photo gallery, showcasing the mesmerizing work of acclaimed photographer Dave Dabour and the captivating imagery from the 2023 Freddy Awards retrospective. Located at the prestigious State Theatre of the Arts in Easton, PA, this immersive gallery promises to be a visual feast for all art and theater enthusiasts.
The gallery doors will swing open to the public on March 7, 2024, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the world of professional photography and relive the magic of the 2023 Freddy Awards. As a testament to Dabour’s exceptional talent and dedication to his craft, each photograph featured in the gallery captures the essence and emotion of live theater, transporting viewers to the heart of unforgettable performances.
“We are thrilled to invite the community to experience the beauty and power of live performance through the lens of Dave Dabour Photography,” said Dave Dabour, owner and lead photographer. “Our gallery is a celebration of artistic expression, and we are honored to share these moments with theater enthusiasts and photography aficionados alike.”
The gallery will be open to the public on show nights, welcoming guests one hour before performances at the State Theatre of the Arts. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a diverse collection of photographs, ranging from stunning dance compositions to dynamic theatrical scenes, all expertly captured by Dave Dabour.
For those eager to immerse themselves in the world of theater and photography, the 2023 Freddy Photo Retrospective gallery promises to be a must-visit destination in Easton, PA. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or simply appreciate the art of storytelling through imagery, this gallery offers something truly special for everyone.
Join us in celebrating the grand opening of the 2023 Freddy Awards Retrospective gallery and experience the magic of the Freddy Awards live performance like never before. For more information, including gallery hours and location details, please visit https://statetheatre.org/ or contact 1-800-999-STATE.
### About Dave Dabour Photography:
Dave Dabour Photography is a premier photography studio specializing in capturing the beauty and emotion of live performances, dance, sports, families, and more. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Dave Dabour has established himself as a leading photographer in the Lehigh Valley, PA, New Jersey, and New York regions.
New Jersey and Lehigh Valley Pennsylvania Dance Photography
Model Call January 2024 Dance Portraits. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
At Dabour Photography, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our newest offering: Dance Portrait Sessions with Light Painting Photography! We are constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation in dance photography, and our new sessions combine the artistry of dance with the magic of light painting to create truly breathtaking images that are unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
Light painting photography involves using long exposure techniques and handheld light sources to create stunning visual effects. When applied to dance photography, this technique allows us to capture the beauty and movement of dancers in a whole new light – quite literally! With each brushstroke of light, dancers become living works of art, their movements transformed into luminous trails of color and energy that dance across the frame.
Model Call January 2024 Dance Portraits. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
During your Dance Portrait Session with Light Painting, our experienced photographer will work closely with you to create dynamic and expressive poses that showcase your unique style and personality. As you move and dance in front of the camera, our photographer will use handheld light sources to paint light trails around you, capturing the beauty and grace of your movements in real time.
The result? Images that are as mesmerizing as they are unique – each one a stunning testament to the power and beauty of dance. From graceful leaps to dynamic turns, every movement is transformed into a vibrant burst of color and energy, creating images that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Model Call January 2024 Dance Portraits. Photo by DAVE DABOUR
Our Light Painting Photography Sessions are perfect for dancers of all ages and levels, from aspiring performers to seasoned professionals. Whether you’re looking to update your portfolio, create eye-catching promotional materials, or simply capture the beauty of your movement in a new and exciting way, our sessions offer an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your talent and creativity in a whole new light.
In addition to their artistic appeal, light painting photographs also make for stunning decor pieces, adding a touch of magic and whimsy to any space. Whether displayed in a gallery, studio, or home, these vibrant and dynamic images serve as powerful reminders of the beauty and artistry that can be found in the world of dance.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience the magic of light painting photography with Dabour Photography. Contact us today to book your session and embark on a journey of artistic expression and discovery. Let’s create something truly extraordinary together!
Book your Dance Portrait Session with Light Painting now and unleash the power of light and movement in your dance photography.
Dabour Photography 