Tag Archives: What to wear

What to Wear for a Dance Photoshoot — A Parent’s Guide

Posted on by
Reply

By Dave Dabour, Dabour Photography

What to wear tips for a dance photo session with Dabour Photography
What to wear tips for a dance photo session with Dabour Photography

Booking a dance photoshoot is an exciting milestone — whether it’s for an audition, recital portraits, or just to capture your dancer’s passion and hard work. As a full-time professional dance photographer based in New Jersey, one of the most common questions I hear from parents is:

“What should my dancer wear?”

Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the perfect outfit so your dancer looks confident, polished, and photo-ready.

🎭 Start with the Purpose of the Shoot

Different types of sessions call for different outfits:

Type of PhotoshootBest Outfit StyleNotes
Audition or Headshot SessionSimple, clean leotardAvoid patterns or flashy colors — the focus should be on your dancer’s lines.
Artistic Studio PortraitsTutus, skirts, or character costumesFeel free to bring variety! Classic ballet looks or themed outfits both work beautifully.
Performance or On-Location ShootFull costume or rehearsal outfitCapture the energy of the role — accessories and props are welcome!

💡 Outfit Tips for the Best Results

✔ Solid Colors Photograph Best
Soft pastels, jewel tones, black, or white are timeless choices. Avoid busy prints unless they’re part of a themed character look.

✔ Make Sure Everything Fits Properly
Loose straps or baggy tights can distract from beautiful lines.

✔ Bring Backup Options
Even if we plan for one outfit, having a second choice gives us flexibility.

✔ Shoes Matter!

  • On pointe? Pointe shoes are always stunning — as long as your dancer is ready and trained.
  • Not on pointe yet? Ballet slippers, jazz shoes, or even barefoot can look amazing.

💁 Hair & Accessories

  • Hair should match the style of the outfit. A clean ballet bun for classic looks; soft curls or half-up styles for character shoots.
  • Avoid jewelry unless it fits the theme. Less is often more.

📸 Studio vs. On-Location — Dress Accordingly

I offer both studio portraits and on-location/performance-style shoots across NJ, PA, NYC, and the Lehigh Valley.

  • Studio: Clean backgrounds let the outfit shine — bring your most polished looks.
  • On Location: Think about movement — skirts, chiffon, capes, or tutus catch light beautifully outdoors or on stage.

Ready to Plan Your Dancer’s Session?

Choosing the right outfit sets the tone — but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I’m always happy to help parents pick the perfect look based on their dancer’s age, level, and goals.

👉 Contact me for more information or to schedule a session at:
https://dabourphoto.com/dance

Let’s create images your dancer will treasure for years to come!

— Dave Dabour
Dabour Photography

What To Wear: Head Shots

Posted on by
Reply

Navigating the ins-and-outs of professional style can be tricky. Here are five helpful recommendations on choosing the right outfit for your headshot!

  1. Keep it authentic and genuine to who you are as a person. Don’t overdo it! Be sure that this is something you are willing to wear in your everyday routine.
  2. Sometimes, less is more. Begin with finding your outfit first. Find colors that mesh with your personality. Your outfit reveals who you are as a person!
  3. Have multiple options! We can shoot more than one look to ensure we capture your personality correctly. Try to mix it up, go for a bold look with one, and something more natural with the other.
  4. As Jennifer Aniston eloquently puts it in Office Space, “flair!” Accessorize for the occasion. For men, put on those cuff links, equip your best belt, shoes, a tie, and maybe even a scarf. For women, put on the bracelet, necklace, earrings, and throw on your best shoes! (They may not be in the shot, but they can instill absolute confidence needed for your headshot!)
  5. Try, try, and try again. Put together different outfits and see how they work together. Move around, look in the mirror, see if your spouse gives you a second glance as you walk past. You will know when you have it right!
  6. With all of this great advice, it sounds easy, right? It can still be tough, as we often overthink when we are trying to prepare. If you find yourself in a rut, feel free to reach out to me. I am more than happy and take pleasure in helping you succeed! Together we can create the perfect outfit.