5 tips to rock your outdoor dance shoot

Outdoor dance shoots are super fun and I want you to make the best out of your experience!  I’ve compiled a short list of 5 tips that will help you rock your shoot!

1. DRESS COMFORTABLY!!!                                                                                                                                                               I can’t address it enough, wear something you feel comfortable dancing in! whether its street clothes or dance clothes, the choice is completely yours but you must be able to move well and freely and it should NOT hide your lines or form.  (Bonus tip round:  If you are opting to wear something like a leotard, make sure it's not one of those pesky ones that like to ride up, it will translate in your photos that you are not comfortable as you worry about having a wardrobe malfunction.)

2. Think of poses or things you want to try, but remember to use it as inspiration and don’t get stuck on poses.

Spend some time on Instagram or Pinterest looking at poses or photos that you are personally drawn to. Practice some of these poses in front of the mirror so you have an idea of how to move into them during the shoot. With any of these though, don't get super attached. Be okay with the idea that you won't get every pose you save and allow creativity to flow!

3. Know your strengths

Are you an amazing leaper or jumper?  Is your back super flexible? By knowing your personal strengths you can tell them to the photographer so they can help you look amazing and help you create!

4. Think 2D, not 3D

I tell this to almost every dancer within the first few minutes of a shoot. We're making a 3D art form (dance) and translating it into a 2D art form (photography). So while you are planning and on the day of your shoot, think about where your body and arms and legs are in relation to the camera. Imagine you are a silhouette or that someone is watching you dance from the last row of a theater. Body parts can disappear or be shortened depending on placement. Honestly, this is something the photographer should always be helping you with during the shoot, but it's great to know and think about yourself as well.

5. Spotify = <3!

Make a short one playlist. Choose a handful of songs that you know pumps you up or will really get you in the mood for the shoot you want to create. I promise I’ll dance along sometimes while shooting! (Disclaimer: I don’t always bring music (and speakers) to the shoots, especially if we are going from one location to the next so please bring yours.

Also as important to…

• Stretch: Take it easy for your first 15-30 mins of shooting. Start with simpler poses/movements and work your way into the big stuff; your body will thank you later.

• Hydrate & get a good night’s sleep: This is a general rule the night before ANY photoshoot. Hydrate and sleep! You want to be feeling your best and the water will help your skin glow the next day.

• Remember to relax and have fun!: Remember to relax during your shoot. Things may not always go as planned, but things may also turn out even better than you could have hoped for. Have fun and be yourself, don't be afraid of showing your personality in your photos as well.

• Essentials:

• Water and snacks.

• BUG REPELLENT! (Our State mascot should be mosquitoes!)

• One extra pair of dance shoes. Your shoes will take a serious beating since you are outdoors so bring an old pair of shoes that are never to be worn again (you’ll thank me later!).

• Sunblock and a towel.