Tag Archives: New Jersey Dance Photographer

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

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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.

Official logo for Cressman Dance Studio located in Washington, NJ.
Official logo for Vibe Dance Academy located in Lebanon, NJ.

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

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.
A young man, Elijah, and a young girl, Rylea, performing a dance duet on a cobblestone alleyway in Easton at dusk. Elijah, in a teal shirt and white trousers, supports Rylea in a graceful lean. Rylea wears a matching teal and white ombre dance dress. String lights glow in the soft-focus background, creating a warm, bokeh effect.
A young ballet dancer, Amelia, in a white and blue tutu performing on a grand stage at the State Theatre. She is captured in a graceful profile pose with one arm extended toward a bright overhead stage light, set against a dark, atmospheric theater interior with glowing wall sconces.
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.

250 in Motion: An American Spirit Dance Portrait Series

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This is a once-in-a-generation patriotic portrait series for dancers, built around movement, strength, joy, and American spirit.

In honor of America’s 250th birthday, I’m excited to introduce a new limited dance portrait series: 250 in Motion: An American Spirit Dance Portrait Series.

This concept was created especially for dancers. It combines a large American flag backdrop, red, white, and blue styling, and expressive movement to create portraits that feel bold, celebratory, and timeless.

The goal of this series is simple: to celebrate the spirit of the moment through dance.

Option 1 (Descriptive): Dance ambassador Olivia performing a graceful pose during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.
An American Spirit Dance Portrait Series. Three of my dance ambassadors model for the concept photo session! Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
Dance ambassador Elijah performing a strong, athletic pose in front of a large American flag backdrop for the 250 in Motion dance portrait series.
An American Spirit Dance Portrait Series. Three of my dance ambassadors model for the concept photo session! Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

These sessions are not about costumes, props, or novelty. They are about movement, strength, personality, and creating something memorable during a once-in-a-generation milestone year. Dancers can keep the look clean and classic with a simple red, white, or blue leotard, or add more movement with a skirt, fabric, or other dancewear that fits the patriotic theme.

A limited dance portrait experience celebrating America’s 250th birthday through movement, strength, and patriotic style.

The first test session brought this idea to life beautifully. We created everything from strong standing portraits to dramatic leaps, flowing fabric images, ballet-inspired poses, and fun Americana-inspired moments. The result is a series that feels energetic, proud, artistic, and very much centered on the dancer.

250 in Motion is a great fit for dancers who want something different from a traditional recital or studio portrait. It can work for ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, or any dancer who wants a patriotic portrait with personality.

Session availability will be limited due to my spring and early summer schedule. If you are interested in creating your own 250 in Motion portraits, please reach out for details and available dates.

More of my favorite images from the initial session:

Dance ambassador Elijah performing a powerful leap in front of a large American flag backdrop for the 250 in Motion dance portrait series.
Dance ambassador Olivia performing a graceful pose during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.
Dance ambassador Olivia performing a graceful pose during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.
Dance ambassador Rylea performing a graceful pose during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.
Dance ambassador Rylea performing a graceful pose during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.
Dance ambassador Olivia performing a graceful ballet-inspired pose in front of a large American flag backdrop for the 250 in Motion dance portrait series.
Dance ambassador Rylea performing a graceful pose during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.
Dance ambassador Elijah performing a graceful pose during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.
Dance ambassador Elijah performing a C jump during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.
Dance ambassador Olivia performing a graceful pose during the 250 in Motion portrait series, set against a large American flag backdrop.

Molly: A Decade of Movement and Grace

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There’s something incredibly special about watching a performer grow up through my lens. Molly is no stranger to my camera—I’ve been photographing her since she was a young girl, and it has been a privilege to document her evolution into the dancer she is today.

In the world of dance, Molly almost had a “destiny” on the stage. With both of her older sisters being dancers—and now both teaching at Showbiz Kidz Dance Center in Lopatcong, NJ—Molly was practically born into the studio culture.

Beyond the Recital Schedule

A flexible dance student named Molly H performing an advanced floor pose during the Showbiz Kidz Dance Center 2026 portrait session. She is wearing a modern black and white patterned dance costume and is arched backward with one leg extended vertically while balanced on her knees and forearms.
Early SBK 2026 dance portraits by Dave Dabour Photography

While picture days at the studio are always a whirlwind of energy, the tight schedule often means we have to move quickly. To really capture the range and artistry Molly is capable of, I offered her some additional dedicated studio time.

This allowed us to slow down, experiment with lighting, and create the specific images we both had in mind. The results are some of my favorite portraits to date! The extra time truly let her personality and technical skill shine without the rush of a standard rehearsal day.

What’s Next?

Molly H performs a cabaret-style dance pose with a white chair during the Showbiz Kidz Dance Center 2026 portrait session. She is wearing a black lace leotard, fishnet tights, and red gloves, holding a red top hat while arching back in a dynamic split-legged stance.
Molly H, a dance student in a black sheer costume, performs a dramatic backbend on the floor, arching her body with her head tilted back and hair flowing, while balanced on one hand and her knees during the Showbiz Kidz Dance Center 2026 portrait session.

I am so thrilled with how these turned out, and I’m even more excited for the future. I’m hoping to have Molly join us as a Dabour Photography Ambassador for the upcoming season. She represents everything I love about dance photography: dedication, history, and a true passion for the craft.

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.

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Rylea (@balletlifeofrylea)

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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!

A young ballet dancer, Rylea, wearing a pale pink tutu and leotard with floral embellishments. She is posing gracefully with her arms raised and a soft smile on a dark stage, illuminated by warm stage lights and sparkling chandeliers at the State Theatre.
Dabour Photography dance ambassadors at the State Theatre of the Arts on September 23, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
A ballet dancer, Rylea, performing an athletic leap across a wide, dark stage. She is wearing a purple tutu and is captured in a graceful split mid-air, with warm stage lights and a large chandelier visible in the background of the historic theatre.
Dabour 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.

A young male dancer, Elijah, dipped-posing a female dancer, Rylea, on a downtown sidewalk at night. Rylea is wearing a teal and white ombre dance dress, and Elijah is in a blue shirt and white pants. The background features warm glowing bistro lights and a street scene in Easton, PA.
Dance portraits during a photo walk in Easton, PA on Oct 26, 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography
A young dancer, Rylea, performing a technical ballet pose while balancing on the stone edge of a large water fountain. She is wearing a teal-to-white ombre dance dress and is captured against the backdrop of the historic Soldiers and Sailors Monument and the cityscape of downtown Easton, PA.
Dance 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
A young dancer, Rylea, performing a technical leg extension while standing on a rustic wooden stool. She is wearing a teal leotard and purple skirt, posed against a red brick wall with a large industrial window and a "Seven Sirens" logo in the background.
A young dancer, Rylea, performing an elegant ballet pose in a narrow industrial alleyway. She is wearing a teal leotard and purple skirt, with her arms extended and one foot on pointe, framed by the historic red brick walls and large windows of the Silk Mill.
A young dancer, Rylea, in a dusty rose lace dance top, holding a bouquet of pink roses close to her chest. She has her eyes closed with a peaceful expression and one arm gracefully arched above her head against a soft grey studio background.
A young dancer, Rylea, laughing while wrapped in a large, colorful silk scarf that transitions from blue to pink and purple. She is standing in a studio with a white floor and grey background, surrounded by scattered rose petals.
A young dancer, Rylea, performing a dynamic leap in a white and red lace costume. She is surrounded by a large, flowing red silk fabric that creates a circular frame around her as she jumps against a deep red studio background.
A young dancer, Rylea, sitting gracefully on the floor in a large, pale pink tulle skirt and a black lace bodice. She is holding a bouquet of red roses and looking away thoughtfully against a deep red studio background.
A young dancer, Rylea, performing a technical ballet pose on a bright red studio floor. She is wearing a black and white patterned leotard with a large, voluminous white tulle skirt, looking upward with her arms gracefully extended.
A young dancer, Rylea, performing a technical pose while seated on a white wooden cube. She is wearing a black dance leotard and tan pointe shoes, with one leg extended vertically and her gaze directed upward against a neutral grey studio background.
A young dancer, Rylea, performing an athletic contemporary pose using white wooden cubes as props. She is wearing a black leotard and tan pointe shoes, balancing with one foot on a tall cube and her body arched forward in a dynamic, sharp-angled position against a grey studio background.
A young dancer, Rylea, performing a technical ballet pose using two white wooden cubes of different heights. She has one foot on pointe on a lower cube and her other leg bent in a passé position, with one arm extended gracefully against a neutral grey studio background.
A professional headshot of a young girl, Rylea, with her hair in a neat ballet bun. She is wearing a black dance leotard and smiling softly, captured against a bright, high-key white studio background.

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Olivia Klein (@oliviaklovesballet)

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Young ballerina Olivia Klein wearing a purple leotard and a long, flowing sheer white skirt, performing a dynamic dance pose in a studio.
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:

Young dancer in a red velvet and white tulle holiday dress, sitting gracefully on the floor in front of glowing gold and green oversized ornaments and festive lights.
Young ballerina Olivia Klein in a red and white holiday dance costume, sitting gracefully on the floor surrounded by glowing gold and green Christmas ornaments and festive studio lights.
Two young sisters, Olivia and Brielle Klein, dressed in matching red and white holiday dance outfits, hugging and smiling together in a festive Christmas-themed studio set.
Ballerina Olivia Klein posing in a black leotard and floral skirt in the middle of a vibrant yellow sunflower field, reaching one arm up gracefully.
Ballerina Olivia Klein posing in a black leotard and floral skirt in the middle of a vibrant yellow sunflower field, reaching one arm up gracefully.
A creative dance portrait of a ballerina in a dark leotard, with white powder forming a glowing heart shape around her as she poses in a studio.
A creative dance portrait of a ballerina in a dark leotard, with white powder forming a glowing heart shape around her as she poses in a studio.
Ballerina Olivia Klein performing a graceful dance pose on an elevated stone ledge at the historic Simon Silk Mill in Easton, PA.
Ballerina Olivia Klein performing a graceful dance pose on an elevated stone ledge at the historic Simon Silk Mill in Easton, PA.
Ballerina Olivia Klein performing a graceful dance pose on an elevated stone ledge at the historic Simon Silk Mill in Easton, PA.
Ballerina Olivia Klein performing a graceful dance pose on an elevated stone ledge at the historic Simon Silk Mill in Easton, PA.
Ballerina Olivia Klein performing a graceful dance pose on an elevated stone ledge at the historic Simon Silk Mill in Easton, PA.
Young dancer in a dramatic black gothic-style gown and a witch's hat, posing against a dark background with vibrant purple smoke effects.
Young dancer in a dramatic black gothic-style gown and a witch's hat, posing against a dark background with vibrant purple smoke effects.
Young dancer in a dramatic black gothic-style gown and a witch's hat, posing against a dark background with vibrant purple smoke effects.
Young ballerina in a light blue and white tutu performing a graceful pose with one arm extended, set against a soft blue and white painterly studio backdrop.
Young ballerina in a light blue and white tutu performing a graceful pose with one arm extended, set against a soft blue and white painterly studio backdrop.
Young ballerina in a light blue and white tutu performing a graceful pose with one arm extended, set against a soft blue and white painterly studio backdrop.
Young ballerina Olivia Klein wearing a purple leotard and a long, flowing sheer white skirt, performing a dynamic dance pose in a studio.
Skirt and Scarves dance portraits at West Jersey Youth Ballet on Sunday September 8, 2024. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Vivi Taggart

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Vivi Taggart, dance ambassador for Dabour Photography, posing in a black leotard and pointe shoes for a fine art dance portrait.

Dance Ambassador Spotlight: Vivi Taggart (@balletvivi)

Every dance ambassador brings something unique to my camera, but some dancers become woven into the fabric of my work in a special way. Vivi Taggart (@balletvivi) is one of them.

Vivi has been with me since the very beginning — long before my ambassador program officially existed. I’ve photographed her through countless seasons, styles, and creative experiments. In fact, other dance photographers have asked me more than once if she’s my daughter because she appears so often in my feed. While she isn’t, I’ll admit there are stretches where I see my dance ambassadors more than some of my own family.

What makes Vivi stand out is her willingness to jump into anything. Outdoor portraits? She’s in. Low light? High key? Holiday themes? Powder? Rain? Sunflowers? Valentine concepts? She’s already tying her shoes and warming up. She’s the first to raise her hand when I want to test a new lighting setup or explore a fresh idea, and she brings the same enthusiasm every single time.

Her dedication to her craft is unmistakable. Vivi trains relentlessly and spends her summers in intensive programs that leave her with only a sliver of downtime. This upcoming summer, she’ll be attending The Rock School’s five‑week Ballet Intensive, followed by one week of their Contemporary Intensive in Philadelphia, and then two weeks at Ducon in Virginia. Her commitment to growth is inspiring, and it shows in every frame we create together.

Vivi take dance instruction at West Jersey Youth Ballet @westjerseyyouthballet) in Annandale, NJ

It’s always a joy to photograph Vivi — her artistry, her work ethic, and her trust make her an essential part of my creative world. I’m grateful for every session we’ve shared and look forward to many more years of her in front of my lens.

Some of my favorite images of Vivi from just the past year:

Vivi Taggart performing a graceful ballet pose among the ancient-style stone megaliths at Columcille Megalith Park.
Vivi Taggart performing a graceful ballet pose among the ancient-style stone megaliths at Columcille Megalith Park.
Young ballerina Vivi Taggart posing in front of a glowing Christmas tree and holiday lights at West Jersey Youth Ballet.
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose outdoors near a body of water
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose outdoors in a body of water
Dynamic action shot of a dancer performing a jump with white flour or powder exploding around her for a high-contrast creative effect.
Dance ambassador Vivi Taggart posing in a vibrant yellow sunflower field wearing a black leotard.
Silhouette of a ballerina performing a pose against a dramatic orange and purple sunrise sky.
Fine art dance portrait of Vivi Taggart using dramatic low-key studio lighting to highlight her form and technique.
Fine art dance portrait of Vivi Taggart using dramatic low-key studio lighting to highlight her form and technique.
Fine art dance portrait of Vivi Taggart using dramatic low-key studio lighting to highlight her form and technique.
Vivi Taggart in a classical Nutcracker ballet costume and headpiece, posing for a holiday-themed studio portrait.
Vivi Taggart in a classical Nutcracker ballet costume and headpiece, posing for a holiday-themed studio portrait.
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose with a valentine theme
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose with a valentine theme
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose in the studio with a blue and white tutu
Dancer Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose in the studio on a posing block
Dancer Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose in a studio in black and white
Dancer Vivi Taggart showing her flexibility in the spider dance pose inside my studio
Ballerina Vivi Taggart performing a graceful pose with a long red skirt

For more information on my dance ambassador program please go here. Accepting applications for next year starting June 2026.

Scarlet Sisters: Red‑y to Dance

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A Bold Winter Fine Art Dance Portrait Session

Two dancers in red bodysuits and red wigs posing artistically against a bold red backdrop for a fine art dance portrait session.
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.

Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Sydney performing an expressive dance pose in red wig and bodysuit during the Scarlet Sisters session.
Sydney performing an expressive dance pose in red wig and bodysuit during the Scarlet Sisters session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Ellery and Sydney posing together in red wigs and red bodysuits against a bold red backdrop during their Scarlet Sisters dance portrait session.
Fine art dance portrait of Ellery in red, showcasing strong lines and dramatic lighting on a red backdrop.
Fine art dance portrait of Ellery in red, showcasing strong lines and dramatic lighting on a red backdrop.
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.

Reserve your spot:
https://proofs.dabourphoto.com/booking/winter-fine-art-dance-portraits

A Winter Dance Portrait Session with Giules — Artistic, Bold, and Full of Heart

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A female dancer in a white leotard and flowing red skirt performing an expressive, mid-motion pose against a professional gray studio backdrop.
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:

https://proofs.dabourphoto.com/booking/winter-fine-art-dance-portraits

Valentine Portrait Sessions: A Celebration of Movement, Heart & Art

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Valentine’s Day is about love in all its forms — passion for dance, confidence, self‑expression, and joy. At Dabour Photography, Valentine Portrait Sessions are designed to celebrate those moments with a fine‑art approach that blends movement, emotion, and a touch of whimsy.

This year, I created a series of Valentine‑themed dance portraits with Lucy to showcase what these sessions can look like. Using flowing costumes, heart‑inspired props, and clean studio lighting, each image highlights both artistry and personality.

Whether added onto a full Fine Art Portrait Session or booked as a short Valentine Mini Session, these portraits are perfect for dancers who want something expressive, elegant, and fun.

What Are Valentine Portrait Sessions?

Valentine Portrait Sessions are studio portraits styled around themes of love, movement, and emotion. Think reds, pinks, soft whites, flowing fabrics, and heart‑inspired props — all designed to complement dance technique and storytelling.

These sessions are:

  • Perfect for dancers of all ages
  • Great as a keepsake or gift
  • Styled with professional lighting and artistic direction
  • Designed to feel playful, confident, and timeless

Featured Valentine Portraits with Lucy

Below are six sample portraits created during Lucy’s Valentine session. Each image highlights a different mood — from graceful and elegant to playful and bold.

Young dancer in a white and red flowing dress holding a red heart prop in a Valentine themed studio portrait.
Valentine Grace in Motion. A flowing red‑to‑white skirt and heart prop come together in a graceful dance pose, capturing movement and Valentine elegance.
Smiling young dancer holding a red heart frame around her face in a Valentine portrait studio session.
Framed by Love
A joyful close‑up portrait of Lucy framed by a sparkling red heart, highlighting expression and confidence.
Young dancer seated on the studio floor holding red roses with a red and white flowing skirt arranged around her.
Roses & Romance
A serene seated portrait of Lucy with red roses and flowing fabric, creating a soft Valentine mood.
Smiling dancer holding a small heart near her face while wearing Valentine themed garland in a studio portrait.
Playful Valentine Sparkle
Caption: A lighthearted portrait of Lucy with festive Valentine garland and a heart accent, full of personality.
Young dancer lying on the studio floor surrounded by pink heart shaped garland arranged in a Valentine design.
Heart Shapes in Motion
Caption: A creative floor pose surrounded by pink heart garland, blending dance and Valentine design.
Dancer performing a high leg extension while holding a pink heart prop during a Valentine themed studio photo session.
Strength, Balance & Love
Caption: A powerful standing pose holding a pink heart, showcasing balance, strength, and confidence. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Interested in a Valentine Portrait Session?

Valentine Portrait Sessions take place at the Dabour Photography studio and are available on a limited basis. Sessions can be added to a full Fine Art Portrait Session or booked as a short, themed mini session.

Dancers are encouraged to bring:

  • Red, pink, or white costumes
  • Valentine‑themed accessories
  • Outfits that reflect their personality

Props are provided, and each session is guided with artistic direction to ensure a relaxed, fun experience.

If you’re looking for something unique, expressive, and meaningful this Valentine’s season, these sessions are a beautiful way to celebrate dance and self‑expression.

For availability and details, visit Dabour Photography or follow along on social media for announcements.