Big Dance 2012

Big World Dance – Participants from the South Hub. Big Dance 2010

How long have you been photographing dance? And how did you start out?

I have been photographing dance and performance for three years. I originally trained as a dancer, graduating from Laban in 2003 before studying photography at the London College of Communication.

I started out assisting photographers such as Chris Nash and Eric Richmond, whilst building up my portfolio.

I got my first big break working for Laban, who I have been fortunate enough to work with ever since.

What inspires you about photographing dance?

I photograph dance for personal reasons. Due to long term health problems, I can no longer perform. Photographing dance allows me to engage and interact with movement in a physical way, without being a part of the choreography.

What I find truly inspirational about photographing dance is the diversity in projects out there. I work largely in the education and community sector, so I get to see and help promote many wonderful and inspiring events. I take great enjoyment in being a part of this work and find it very humbling to see people from all ages and backgrounds come together to simply enjoy the act of dancing.

Favourite Big Dance image and why.

This is difficult because I have several favourite images from Big Dance. However I have picked an image of two women working through the steps at Big World Dance.

It is a very simple, intimate image, moving away from the vibrant colours, noises and carnival feel of the day. It has no elaborate movements, but it captures the spirit of the event in a subtle way, uniting people through dance. I consider this to hold a great deal of power.

What tips/advice would you give to someone starting out photographing dance?

The best piece of advice I can offer is practice. Simple and obvious but true. This is the only way to learn, gain confidence and develop your own style.

It is a lot of hard work photographing dance, it is important to precede the performer, a second out and the moment is lost. However, it is this spontaneity and game play between the dancer and photographer, which makes dance photography really exciting.

I also recommend reading books on photographers. It is inspiring to see the work of others and to find out about their approach and process. The library is a great resource for books on photographers. 

See more of Rachel Cherry's work