Tag Archives: Dave Dabour Photography

Senior Dance Portraits with Mia — A Full‑Circle Moment

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There’s something uniquely special about photographing a dancer you’ve worked with for years. Mia has been in front of my camera many times — for artistic portraits, senior photos, and now her final dance portrait session before she heads off to college. Each time, she brings the same qualities that make her such a joy to photograph: talent, focus, and a natural ease that turns every pose into art.

This year marks a big milestone for her. Mia is a high school senior, and in just a few months she’ll be attending Montclair, where she’ll study both dance and fashion — a combination that fits her perfectly. Watching her step confidently into this next chapter has been inspiring, even if I selfishly wish I had just a little more time to create with her.

Earlier in the year, during one of our artistic sessions, I asked Mia and her mom if she still had her very first dance costume. Her face lit up as she said yes. I told her, “You have to bring it to our next session.” And she did.

Seeing her holding that tiny costume — the one that started it all — was a full‑circle moment. It was a reminder of how far she’s come, how much she’s grown, and how dance has shaped her into the artist she is today. Photographing her with it felt like capturing a bridge between the beginning of her journey and the incredible future waiting for her.

I’m so proud of Mia and everything she’s accomplished. While I’m excited to see where her talent takes her next, part of me wishes I had a few more years to create more incredible dance portrait art with her. But that’s the beauty of these sessions — they freeze time, even as life keeps moving forward.

Here’s to Mia — to her artistry, her dedication, and the next chapter she’s about to write.

Some of my favorite images from the session:

A senior high school dancer named Mia performing an inverted headstand pose on a white studio floor; she is wearing a dark blue athletic outfit and white sneakers with her legs extended in a wide, symmetrical split.
A senior high school dancer named Mia in a blue contemporary dance outfit performing a floor pose with one hand on the ground and her other arm extended gracefully; she is looking directly at the camera with a focused expression.
A high school senior dancer named Mia performing an artistic floor pose in a cream-colored contemporary outfit and red socks; she is arching her back with her head tilted back and arms supporting her weight on the studio floor.
An artistic dance portrait of Kylie from the ShowBiz Kidz Senior Dance Team; she is performing a dramatic backbend in a tan top and sheer black pants against a clean white studio background.
Dance portraits for ShowBiz Kidz Studio Wednesday April 22, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
A young female dancer from ShowBiz Kidz performing a powerful stag jump in mid-air; she is wearing a black costume with blue fringe details against a white studio background.
Dance portraits for ShowBiz Kidz Studio Wednesday April 22, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
A young female dancer from ShowBiz Kidz in a black fringe leotard and long red gloves performing a dramatic backbend over a white chair; she is wearing fishnet tights and black character shoes against a white studio background.
Dance portraits for ShowBiz Kidz Studio Wednesday April 22, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
A young female dancer from ShowBiz Kidz in a black leotard with a gold sequined sash performing a technical hand-balance pose; she is supporting her weight on her hands with her legs extended in a wide vertical split.
Dance portraits for ShowBiz Kidz Studio Wednesday April 22, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Capturing the Force: Recital Portraits for New Jersey Dance Force

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There is something special about witnessing a local business truly hit its stride. This year, it was an absolute pleasure to return to New Jersey Dance Force for their annual recital portrait sessions.

A Season of Incredible Growth

If you’ve spent any time at the studio lately, you’ve likely noticed the incredible energy—and the many new faces! Under the dedicated leadership of owner Miss Kimberly, New Jersey Dance Force has seen significant growth this season.

With so many talented dancers and vibrant costumes to document, we realized that the usual weeknight schedule simply wouldn’t cut it anymore. To ensure every dancer received the time and attention they deserved, we made the exciting move to a full Saturday Picture Day.

The Saturday Advantage

Moving the session to a Saturday was a game-changer. Instead of rushing from school or work, dancers and parents arrived with a bit more “breathing room.” This relaxed atmosphere allowed us to:

  • Focus on the Details: From the intricate lace on a lyrical costume to the perfect tilt of a hip-hop cap, we had the time to get every detail just right.
  • Capture the Joy: Without the weekday rush, the natural smiles and camaraderie between the dancers really shined through in the portraits.
  • Creative Excellence: A dedicated portrait day allows me to maintain the high standard of lighting and composition that Dabour Photography is known for, ensuring these memories last a lifetime.

A Partnership in Artistry

Miss Kimberly always well prepared and knows which dancers in which costume are ready for pictures. Her vision for the studio and her commitment to her students make the collaborative process seamless. It’s clear that “The Force” is stronger than ever!

To the parents and dancers of NJDF: Thank you for your patience and energy during our new Saturday schedule. It was a marathon of movement. Let me know if you need the link to the gallery.

Behind the Scenes: The 2026 Freddy Awards Journey Begins!

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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.
A high school theater student in a green "Little Shop of Horrors" T-shirt leans over a table to sign her name on a check-in sheet during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.
A high school student in a pink "Legally Blonde" musical T-shirt looks down at her phone with a focused expression while standing in a hallway during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.
High school theater students, including a young woman in a light blue shirt and a young man in a white t-shirt, lean over a table to sign their names on attendance sheets during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.

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.
A high school student named Gabby, wearing an orange "Saucon Valley High School Presents" T-shirt, holds a music score and sings with a focused expression during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.
A high school student with glasses and a denim jacket holds a music score and sings with a focused expression during the 2026 Freddy Awards music rehearsal.
A high school student named Riley from Phillipsburg High School, wearing a light blue "Frozen" theater T-shirt, sings with a focused expression while holding a music score during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.
A male music director with glasses and a beard wears a tan jacket over a black shirt, standing with both arms raised and fingers pointing upward to lead a vocal rehearsal for high school students.

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.
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.

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.
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.
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.
A male choreographer with a beard, wearing a grey zip-up jacket, stands in a rehearsal hall holding a black folder while gesturing with one arm raised during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.
A professional director or conductor stands at a podium in a theater, pointing toward a group of students in the audience during the first rehearsal for the 2026 Freddy Awards.
Stacy Higgins, the Freddy Awards choreographer, stands in front of a piano holding a notebook and gesturing while directing a group of students during a music rehearsal.
A high school student in a black T-shirt holds a music score and practices singing with a focused expression during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.
First rehearsal for the 2026 Freddy Awards on May 7, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
A high school student in a white T-shirt with a "The Prom" logo holds a music binder and sings with a focused expression during the first Freddy Awards rehearsal.
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

Grace Under the Spotlight: Dance Portraits at Mary Help of Christians Academy

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A Tradition of Artistry at Mary Help There is a beautiful sense of continuity in returning to a school year after year. This season marked my fourth time photographing the dancers at Mary Help of Christians Academy. As an all-girls Catholic school with a deep commitment to the arts, the atmosphere is always one of focused talent and wonderful school spirit.

The After-School “Elite” Sessions While we capture every dancer during the day, my absolute favorite part of this residency is the special after-school session we offer. This is a time specifically set aside for the “best of the best”—those dancers who live and breathe their craft.

Away from the hustle of the school day, these performers truly have the space to shine. It is a joy to work with dancers who are so technically proficient and eager to push their creative boundaries in front of the camera. The resulting portraits are always among the most striking of the year.

A Tribute to Miss Hannah The high caliber of dance at Mary Help is no accident. These students are truly blessed with a wonderful and talented teacher in Miss Hannah. Her dedication to her students and her eye for choreography make my job behind the lens so much easier. It’s clear that her guidance helps these young women find their confidence and their “light.”

View Your 2026 Portraits The professional galleries for this session are finished! If you are a parent or student at Mary Help, reach out to me or Miss Hannah if you didn’t receive the link view and purchase your portraits.

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

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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.
Miss Central Jersey Coastline Hope Kiehl stands in a floor-length royal blue gown and pageant sash; she wears a silver crown and looks confidently at the camera amidst dramatic red and white studio smoke.
Hope Kiehl in a white and blue floral gown and crown posing against a black background.
Miss Central Jersey Coastline Hope Kiehl sitting on a white pedestal; she wears a dark green V-neck jumpsuit, silver crown, and pageant sash, surrounded by giant gold, red, and green Christmas ornaments.
Miss Central Jersey Coastline Hope Kiehl smiling and holding her silver crown while seated on a white block; she is wearing a green jumpsuit and pageant sash, flanked by large green and gold Christmas ornaments.
Hope Kiehl performing as a dancer in "Carousel"; she is in a white lace dress, balancing on one leg with the other extended vertically in a high kick, arms raised, on a stage with a coastal backdrop.
A stage photo from "Carousel" featuring Hope Kiehl in mid-air performing a grand jeté; she wears a white lace dress and ballet shoes against a coastal-themed backdrop with wooden pier props.

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

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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.
Kristoff kneels on stage playing a lute while Sven the reindeer stands beside him with a comical, wide-eyed expression during SKIT’s production of Frozen.
An actress portraying Anna in the Sophia cast of SKIT’s Frozen performs a dance move in her coronation gown, while Hans stands in the background smiling.
A young actress portraying Young Anna in the Sophia cast of SKIT’s Frozen stands on stage with a joyful expression, wearing a long-sleeved grey and green Nordic-style dress with her hair in two braids.
Young Elsa and Young Anna stand center stage in traditional Nordic-style dresses, with King Agnarr and Queen Iduna standing protectively behind them during the opening scenes of SKIT’s 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’

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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.
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.
Elsa stands center stage in her sparkling blue ice gown with one hand extended, while Anna watches from the background in her traveling outfit during SKIT's production of Frozen.
Elsa stands with her arms outstretched in a triumphant pose on an ice-themed stage staircase, wearing her sparkling blue gown during the "Let It Go" finale.
Anna and Hans stand together on stage during SKIT's production of Frozen, with Anna looking upward joyfully while Hans looks toward her.
Elsa stands prominently on stage in her coronation gown and purple cape, surrounded by ensemble members in colorful ballroom dresses during SKIT's production of Frozen.
An actor in an Olaf costume stands with arms outstretched between Anna and Elsa, who are both kneeling and looking up at him during a stage performance of Frozen.
An actor performing as Oaken from SKIT’s production of Frozen gestures enthusiastically while wearing a traditional patterned Nordic sweater and hat.
Anna and Kristoff share a close, smiling interaction on stage while a character in the background looks on during SKIT’s production of Frozen.
Young Elsa and Anna in winter costumes lean against opposite sides of a closed door, portraying a poignant scene from 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!

From Studio to Storefront: Elijah’s Creative World

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How cool is it when you’re walking through a store and suddenly see one of your dance ambassadors modeling the clothes on display? That’s exactly what happened with Elijah — or as you’ll find him online, @elijahinthearts. Elijah isn’t just a dancer; he’s an actor and a model, and he brings that same expressive, magnetic energy into every session we create together.