Behind the Lens: Dance Photography Tips for Dancers — What Photographers Wish You Knew

When you’re under the lights, you’re focused on your choreography — the emotion, the timing, the story. But behind the lens, your photographer is chasing the perfect split second when all of that magic aligns in one unforgettable frame.

In this week’s ORO Dance Competition Instagram Live Series, host Brianna Blake sat down with professional dance photographer Sydney Jackson to share the insider secrets every dancer should know to capture their best performance photos. Whether you’re a soloist, part of a team, or dancing your heart out in improv, these tips will help you truly shine — on stage and on camera. These dance photography tips for dancers are lessons every performer can apply on stage.

1. Great Photos Start Before the Music Does — Dance Photography Tips for Dancers

According to Sydney, one of the biggest differences between a good photo and a great one happens before the first beat drops.

“Photographers are already framing their shots the moment the lights rise,” she shared. “When a dancer walks confidently onto the stage and connects with the audience from that first second, we can feel it through the camera.”

Try this next time you perform:

• Walk on stage with purpose — your energy sets the tone for every image that follows.

• Hold your opening pose with strong posture and open lines.

• Let your confidence start the story before your choreography even begins.

  
  

2. Your Face Is Just as Important as Your Feet

Your technique might earn you a high score, but your expression is what turns a photo into art.

“We can fix lighting, we can crop an image — but we can’t Photoshop genuine emotion,” Sydney laughed.

Remember:

• Every count is a chance for connection. Don’t let your expression drop mid-turn or during transitions.

• Rehearse your routine in front of a mirror — focus on what your face is saying, not just your body.

• A smile isn’t always the answer; emotion should match your choreography’s story.

  
  

3. Know Your Angles — and Trust Your Photographer

Photographers at ORO capture thousands of images in just a few minutes. The ones that stand out are when dancers understand their lines and angles.

“Big extensions look amazing — but only when they’re aligned with the camera’s view,” Sydney explained. “If you open your body toward the audience, not the wings, you’ll instantly photograph stronger.”

Pro Tip: During rehearsal, ask a friend to film you from the front. Study which angles best highlight your lines — and remember them when you perform.

4. Lighting Is Your Partner Too

Stage lighting adds drama, but it can also create shadows or wash out detail.

“When dancers stay centered and use the full depth of the stage, it helps us keep you perfectly lit,” said Sydney.

What to do:

• Avoid drifting too far forward or backward on stage.

• Use moments of stillness to find your “light pocket.”

• Glitter, rhinestones, and metallics? They sparkle best under the right spotlight — so let them do the work for you!

  
  

5. Celebrate the Imperfect Shots

Not every image will be picture-perfect — and that’s the beauty of live performance.

“Sometimes the most powerful photos are the ones that capture emotion, not perfection,” Brianna reminded listeners. “A raw expression, a hair flying mid-turn — those tell your story.”

So when you scroll through your gallery after competition weekend, appreciate the messy, magical moments too. They reflect your growth as an artist.

Golden Takeaways for Dancers

✨ Bring emotion — let the camera feel what the audience feels.

✨ Stay aware of your body lines from every angle.

✨ Own your space and your light.

✨ Trust your photographer. They’re your teammate, not just your documenter.

Listen to the Full Conversation

Want to hear more behind-the-scenes insights from dance photographers? Tune in to the full episode of ORO Dance Competition’s Instagram Live Series — “Behind the Lens: What Dance Photographers Wish Dancers Knew” — hosted by Brianna Blake with guest Sydney Jackson.

🎧 Listen on ApplePodcast: @orodancecompetition