If you are a working performing artist, you have had your fair share of head shots and photographs taken, with varying results. Sometimes you and your photographer are inexplicably in the zone and get the perfect image right away. But, there are always those photo shoots where you only get a few good images, even though you swear you heard the shutter click at least a thousand times. So what separates the successful photo shoots from the failures? And how do you begin to get the results that you want? Before you can even begin to contemplate those questions, the next problem arises – which photos do you choose, and moreover, which ones do you actually need? These questions have haunted even the most seasoned dancers, but luckily, DancerMusic found the perfect photographer to demystify it all: Ashley Deran.
Ashley founded A. Deran Photography in 2011 with a focus on dance concert events and dance publicity. Since then, she has photographed for companies including Chicago Dance Crash, The Seldoms, Chicago Repertory Ballet, Inaside Chicago Dance, Chicago Dance History Project, Salty Lark Dance Company, The Chicago Fringe Festival, Columbia College, and Western Michigan University. It is also worth mentioning that Ashley is an established dance artist in Chicago and is the Co-Director of Project Bound Dance. Her keen eye both inside the studio and behind the camera lens, as well as the ability to direct a dancer in both circumstances, produce sharp, expressive images that any dancer would love to have. In this 4PHOTOS, Ashley takes us through the four images that every dancer should have in their portfolio, plus the do’s and don’ts on how to get them. Here’s a pro’s advice on how to put your best foot (and face) forward:
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Head Shot
DON’T: Forget to dialogue with your photographer throughout the session. There is nothing wrong with asking for a quick peek at the camera to review what is being captured. Just remember: if something isn’t working for you, be specific and clear about your concerns.
DO: Remember to play to your strong angles. A little movement goes a long way for head shots. Subtle tilts of the head or shifting of the shoulders can change the composition of the image drastically.
DON’T: Stand with stiff, soldiered posture. Even though most of your body can’t be seen in a head shot, relaxing your stance and tension will serve you better.
DO: Try a variety of expressions and be open to exploring different sides of your personality with your photographer.
DON’T: Forget to dialogue with your photographer throughout the session. There is nothing wrong with asking for a quick peek at the camera to review what is being captured. Just remember: if something isn’t working for you, be specific and clear about your concerns.
DO: Bring clothing looks with clean necklines that make you feel comfortable. Baggy shirts or tops with low V necklines tend to not work as well for a traditional head shot.
DO: Update your head shot when there are major changes to your physical appearance.
DON’T: Be afraid to try both vertical and horizontal portrait options. Sometimes one might be more flattering for your face shape than the other.
DO: Bring clothing looks with clean necklines that make you feel comfortable. Baggy shirts or tops with low V necklines tend to not work as well for a traditional head shot.
DON’T: Forget to bring the appropriate undergarments so straps and lines can’t be seen under any of the looks you choose to wear throughout the session.
Full Body
DO: Think of a full body shot as an extension of your head shot. Try to keep your face towards the camera and continue to be conscious of your body shapes and angles.
DON’T: Overcomplicate your look with too many accessories. Keep it simple and streamlined.
DO: Think of a full body shot as an extension of your head shot. Try to keep your face towards the camera and continue to be conscious of your body shapes and angles.
DON’T: Forget to bring shoes that could complete the outfit.
DO: Experiment with port de bras and upper body shapes to capture a portrait that speaks more to your dance related career than the regular head shot.
DON’T: Forget to check on your nail color. Leftover color from the last big holiday or event might not necessarily compliment your overall look.
DO: Pack makeup, including a variety of lip colors. Remember that studio lighting works similarly to stage lighting and can wash out undefined facial features. If you are uncomfortable creating your own makeup look consult with your photographer about bringing in a makeup artist.
DON’T: Bring clothing or products that will create shine or reflection in your photos. If you are considering wearing glasses you should consult your photographer for more information.
DO: Pack makeup, including a variety of lip colors. Remember that studio lighting works similarly to stage lighting and can wash out undefined facial features. If you are uncomfortable creating your own makeup look consult with your photographer about bringing in a makeup artist.
Action Shot
DO: Pay attention to details including the shape of the fingers, focus of the eyes, and overall energy of the shot. The same shape can look either flirty or fierce depending on your intention.
DO: Bring pictures of ideas you would like to try to the session. Reviewing your photographers previous work will also help you get a better understanding of their style.
DON’T: Be afraid to spend some time in the mirror before the shoot finding poses and shapes that are flattering and comfortable.
DO: Bring a variety of clothing options. Clothing that works well for head shots might not be your best option for full body or dance shots. Try to choose colors that flatter your skin tone and highlight the color of your eyes.
DON’T: Pack fabrics that wrinkle easy or clothing that has busy textures and patterns.
DO: Pay attention to details including the shape of the fingers, focus of the eyes, and overall energy of the shot. The same shape can look either flirty or fierce depending on your intention.
DON’T: Choose shapes that are static or stiff. Your image should convey movement and energy.
DO: Be aware of your space. If you are working on a backdrop sometimes you might have to minimize the wideness or height of your shape to fit in the photographer’s frame.
DO: Be aware of your space. If you are working on a backdrop sometimes you might have to minimize the wideness or height of your shape to fit in the photographer’s frame.
DON’T: Forget to see if your photographer has experience working with dancers. A keen eye for shape and technique is important for a successful movement image.
Live Performance Shot
DO: Stay on brand. Your performance shot should complement your other images
DO: Make sure to check with your choreographer/director and photographer to verify that you can use images from prior performances.
DON’T: Edit, Crop, or filter images without the photographer’s permission.
DO: Properly credit photos when posted on the internet or in print.
DON’T: Use a performance image that showcases multiple dancers or large group shots.
DO: Stay on brand. Your performance shot should complement your other images
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You can find more of Ashley’s photography at @aderanphoto on Instagram or www.aderanphoto.com .
For booking information please contact ashley.deran@gmail.com.
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