C12 at Holland Park – Big Dance 2008
How long have you been photographing dance? And how did you start out?
21 years, with a degree in Fine Arts, then I assisted Chris Nash for a few years before venturing out on my own.
What inspires you about photographing dance?
The moment of flight - capturing a moment in time. Capturing something that was devised purely from a thought or a story, something from nothing. As with photography dance is very magical and when performed well, can be such a delight to watch, making endless shapes to capture.
Favourite Big Dance image and why.
This dance company performed in Holland Park, London on a day that had sun and cloud, a perfect scape for dance outdoors with a mirrored structure. The audience played with the movement as did my eye. It was a treat to photograph and the dancers worked so hard and looked fantastic. People did not leave and wanted to see more. It was a treat indeed.
What tips/advice would you give to someone starting out photographing dance?
Be there. Be patient. Have your camera ready and wait. Get the rhythm then you will get the shot.
Always get in the feet. Never shoot poise on the way down.
Any other comments?
Once you begin it will be difficult to stop!
Thank you dancers for delighting me for all this time.
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