JAS Photo Shop Talk: Dance Theater Study

For the last 2 weeks I have been preparing to shoot with the African American Dance Review  (AADR) as their official photographer for their 2nd season production. Theater is a brand new animal for me to tackle and there are a number of variables that are uncontrollable in this environment. Knowing these challenges I have been studying to ensure that I am fully prepared for the gig. In my search of the internet I ran across a helpful resource (Theater Photography) that gave a great overview of capturing the essence of  a performance with great images.

As with any talent or profession you never stop learning and having fun if you love what you do. Last week I visited a dress rehearsal for the AADR performance and not only did I have a chance to sketch out my game plan for the show, but also enjoyed watching the makings of a great performance. Being a photographer you get opportunities to work with a variety of  great groups and individuals from all areas. The one thing I learned above all  is to be prepared and expect the unexpected. If you are looking for tips like I was, below you will find a short list of things that I felt would be useful:

• Go to the dress rehearsal to plan your shots before the show (if possible) to find key moments. Don't hesitate to take notes.
  
• Use a tripod or mono-pod to stabilize your camera to reduce vibration  in low light enviorments
• Refrain from using a flash b/c it can be distracting to the dancers and I feel it takes away from the mood of the lighting on the stage
• Shoot RAW if you can to adjust color variance in post processing
• Keep in mind the perspective of the audience based on the show being made for them not the photographer. 
• Look for the story behind each image you take otherwise you will end up with hundreds of images that don't truly depict the performance accurately. 

I invite you to come out and see a great show as well view work by yours truly in the production material. Find the details below:

The African American Dance Review Season II production (The Progressive Realization of Dreams) will take place on January 28-31, 2010 and February 4-6, 2010 at the historic Rialto Center for the Arts - Georgia State University in Atlanta. All proceeds will benefit the CFED Foundation.