Out-of-Studio Dance Portraits
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Art That Moves
Dancers are not meant to be kept in a cage but set free to soar, and the only natural place for your dance portrait is out in the open.
Creativity Unleashed
Out-of-studio dance portraits are for anyone wanting something different and special. Whether you are destined for the world’s best dance schools, or you have the kind of talent that only a mother truly appreciates, it doesn’t matter! This is not about degree of talent but the desire to have photographs that document your personality, to spotlight your dance costumes with intriguing surroundings, and to have portraits of you having fun.
If you love to move, I want to be there creating the coolest, most interesting photos with you.
I have always been more interested in real life than in what can be posed. A constructed studio photograph can beautifully highlight the poise of a dancer, but to see passion and personality there needs to be more creative freedom for the dancer and photographer. Getting out of the studio and into nature or urban landscapes becomes the breeding ground for memorable photographs that will be forever treasured.
If you want something unique and exhilarating, you’re in the right place
Unlike the confines of out a studio, when you are out in the open you can run your fingertips over the painted bricks of a street mural, spin around the pole of a street lamp, run down a forest path, or splash in lake water. There’s room to stretch, leap, and twirl without limitations.
You can dance in a tutu under softly falling snowflakes or in a suit and tie amongst the skyscrapers. The sky is the limit.
This isn’t just about the steps; it’s about telling your unique story through movement and photography. With nature is your stage, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
Everyone is welcome. Come as you are.
“These pictures not only portray him as a dancer, but as the person he truly is.”
Review
Client Love Letter
“If you’re going to dance, then darling, make the world spin.” – Madalyn Beck
This is how we do it
(to quote Montell Jordan...)
We connect
I’m really easy to get along with – promise!
Click “LET’S DO THIS” and say 'Hi'. I'll get back to you in your preferred way (phone call, text, or email) and we'll talk photos!
We Brainstorm
They say it takes two to tango
Are you an elegant ballerina who loves sunsets and ice cream shops? More into hip hop, laser tag, and street art? We combine your interests with your aesthetic dreams to nail down the perfect setting. This involves choosing the right backdrop (urban or rural, peaceful or busy) as well as the right kind of light (sunrise, clouds, evening city lights, etc.).
We hang out
The most fun part
Your favourite poses, your signature moves, and music to set the mood is a must. We will spend about an hour together creating artistic portraits to capture the energy that moves you.
Your photos are presented to you!
The part where you might cry
Shortly after your session you get to see your photographs in an online gallery to select your favourites and whatever art form(s) you want for lifelong enjoyment of your dance photos (prints, album, etc.)
“I cried when I saw them”
FAQ’S
Got Questions?
What should I wear?
“Whatever you want!” is the quick and easy answer but it really just depends on the look you would like to achieve with your photos and whether the photos are for your dance portfolio or as a personal keepsake. You can wear your latest performance outfit, your practice leotard, jeans and a tank top…
Some things to think about:
Do you want to blend into your background or stand out?
Do you care about comfort during your photo session?
Note:
Form-fitting attire: Leotards and tights allow your lines to be seen clearly.
Something light and airy: Wrap and A-line tutu skirts and jazz pants show movement and softness.
Street clothes: This creates a fun, casual vibe.
You don’t have to feel alone in this decision, it will be part of our planning process together.
I’m a shy person, will people be watching us?
There are always places to be found far from the curious eyes of passersby. If privacy is something you seek, just let me know and I will scout out quiet locations or select times we know the chosen location will be vacant.
Is there an age limit?
No, not really. Babies and beyond, all are welcome!
Will you tell me what to do, how to move?
I will not be posing you like you would be in a studio yet I can prompt you to show me your signature moves and the jumps or spins that excite you most. It will be a very natural and organic process. When we meet we’re going to put on your favourite music to help keep the atmosphere casual and we’ll see where the mood takes us!
Do the elements ever present challenges?
Sure, sometimes, but that’s just part of the adventure! Wind, drizzle, and blinding sunlight will only add to the creative elements we can include in your photographs.
I have special needs
Whether your special needs are physical, mental, or social, I am here to give you the extra time and attention you require. This is a fully-customizable session meant to let you shine. There is no pressure to appear a certain way or to do certain things, and you will be given the freedom to be just as you are. I am happy to adapt in any way that makes you feel comfortable.
Support for the LGBTQIA2S+ community?
Absolutely. I am a business that proudly embraces everyone and offers a safe space for all ethnicities and the entire LGBTQIA2S+ community. I firmly believe that everyone(!) deserves the highest degree of respect. I am excited to work with you so come as you are and expect a smile and a friend.
About me
Hello, I’m Paula (she/her). I moved around a lot when I was little, often between small towns where dance lessons didn’t exist and despite my two left feet and stiff hips, I always dreamt of dancing on a stage in front of a captivated and adoring audience. By the time I moved to a ‘bigger’ town, I felt too far behind the dancing level of other girls my age so I joined other activities instead. Let me tell you though… I’ve never forgotten the envy and thrill the day my best friend showed me “her pride and joy” — her first pointe shoes. They were the most beautiful shoes I had ever seen.
I have since enjoyed all kinds of dance lessons, from Flamenco to Country dancing, Belly Dancing to Hip Hop, but I discovered that what gets me more excited than dancing myself, is watching others dance. And that’s what you want – an excited photographer who is going to work really hard to give you something really awesome. I want my photography to help dancers shine.
I’ve often been told that I have a calming aura and an easygoing personality so if you have the jitters about getting your portrait taken, I’ll walk you through it and guarantee you have fun along the way. We will make the best team.
- I love being outdoors and believe there is no such thing as bad weather, only badly dressed. Water and I are like magnets but I’m terrified of lake weeds and sea cucumbers.
- Intimate live music performances send goosebumps down my spine and music plays 24/7 in my house. I’ve played the piano since I was 6 and my current favourite songs to play are cinematic moody ones.
- I’m married to a Dutchman and we have 2 daughters and 2 cats.
- My culinary guilty pleasures are Mr. Noodles, ketchup slurped straight from the little takeout packs, and peanut butter by the spoonful. I also get pretty excited anytime I find popcorn, prosecco, and deep fried pickles.
- I volunteer for the Kids With Cancer Society of Northern Alberta on Wednesday mornings and for special events.
- I have an ongoing street photography project of discarded banana peels I find laying around. As a kid I thought it was hilarious when cartoon characters would slip on peels in the street and I guess the fascination has continued.
Awards & Appearances
Session Options
Dance Portrait
- $500
- All planning meetings and calls
- Up to 90 minutes of portraiture
- 10 digital photographs (jpegs) hand-retouched and high-resolution
- A photo slideshow set to licensed music for you to download, save, and share
- Access to professional photo products (albums & prints)
Optional Add-Ons
- Additional digital photographs (jpegs), 50
- Package of 5 additional digital photographs (jpegs), 175
- Package of 10 additional digital photographs (jpegs), 300
- Keepsake album (hardcover 12”x12”), 400
- Prints on photo paper, à la carte
- Museum grade acrylic prints, à la carte
OH HEY!
Once a month I send a fun email with quirky musings and “insider” specials. Join us!
Paula Gerein Photography
Documentary photography for families and businesses of Edmonton and Central Alberta, Canada. Available for travel.
© Paula Gerein Photography 2024
All rights reserved.