Dance performance photography · New York City, New Jersey & Connecticut
Dance Photography
Recitals, showcases, competitions and company performances photographed from the wings and the house, plus action portraits for dancers who need photos that actually move. Across New York City, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, New Jersey and Connecticut.



Performances
Dance recital & performance photography
Stage light is dim, fast and changes every few seconds. I shoot without flash from spots agreed with your stage manager, timing each frame to the peak of a jump, a turn or a lift, so the photos look the way the show felt.
I have photographed dancers everywhere from the stages of Lincoln Center and Alvin Ailey to small private studios, and I shoot video as well, so a performance can be covered in stills and film.
- Recitals, showcases and year-end shows
- Competitions and company performances
- No flash, nothing to distract dancers or the audience
- Online galleries organised by routine, easy to share with families

Dancers
Dancer portfolios & action shots
Agency submissions, audition packages and social media need dance photos that show technique as well as personality. We work on a black backdrop, on stage or on location, and I direct each jump and extension until the line is right.
- Leaps, flips and extensions frozen sharp
- Clean black, studio or city backgrounds
- Headshots and full-length shots for auditions
- Retouched files ready for agencies and social media
Recent dance work
Hip-hop crews, company finales and solo moments from New York stages. Tap any photo to see it larger.
Who I work with
Dance studios, schools & companies
Most dance work comes from people who need the same thing every season: reliable coverage and photos that arrive while everyone still remembers the show.
- Dance studios and schools: recitals, showcases and photos for studio marketing
- Dance companies and choreographers: performance documentation and promotional images
- Competitions and festivals: on-stage coverage across many routines
- Theatres and venues: dress rehearsals and press images
- Individual dancers: portfolios, audition photos and content for social media
Reviews
From my Google reviews
5.0
average across 24 reviews
“What sets him apart is his creativity in regards to lighting, editing, and the positioning of the person(s) he is photographing.”
Chris Mattiolo
Artist portfolio · Google review
“The lighting, composition, and editing were all top-notch, making the final photos look absolutely stunning.”
Hannan Sayed
Portrait session · Google review
“Hundreds of incredible photos in our 30 minute session… Clear, high quality photos, and such a quick turnaround time.”
blake bramlett
Portrait session · Google review
FAQ
Dance photography questions
What studios, companies and dancers ask before booking Michaels Photography.
Do you photograph dance recitals in New York City?
Yes. Michaels Photography photographs dance recitals, showcases, competitions and company performances in Manhattan, Brooklyn and the rest of New York City, as well as Westchester, the Hudson Valley, New Jersey and Connecticut.
Do you use flash during dance performances?
No. Performances are photographed using the stage lighting only, with fast lenses and cameras built for low light, so neither the dancers nor the audience are distracted.
Can you photograph the dress rehearsal instead of the show?
Often, yes. A dress rehearsal lets Michael move around the theatre freely, which means more angles and closer shots without disturbing the audience. Many studios book both: the rehearsal for action shots and the show for the atmosphere.
How do families get their dance recital photos?
Photos are delivered in an online gallery organised by routine, so the studio can share a single link and families can find their dancer quickly.
What is a dancer portfolio shoot?
A session for an individual dancer that produces action shots, full-length photos and headshots for agency submissions, auditions, college applications and social media. Michael directs each move until the line, timing and expression are right.
Where can a dance portfolio shoot take place?
On a black or studio backdrop, on a stage, or on location around New York City, such as rooftops, parks and city streets. The location is chosen to suit the dancer and the style.
How do I book a dance photographer in New York?
Call (914) 482-5333, email info@michaels-photography.com or use the form on this page. Share the date, the venue and roughly how many routines or dancers there are, and Michael will get back to you with a quote.
Let’s talk
Tell me about your show or shoot: the date, the venue and roughly how many routines or dancers. I’ll get back to you with a quote, usually within a day.
(914) 482-5333
New York City · New Jersey · Connecticut

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