Dance in Motion: A Photoshoot by the Water of Leith

The charming Dean Village in Edinburgh provided the backdrop for a recent dance photoshoot, capturing the dynamic energy of dancer Christine Dong. I aimed to showcase Christine’s artistry through movement and visual storytelling, using the natural beauty of the background to create compelling imagery.

Dancer Christine Dong along the Water of Leith in Dean Village, Edinburgh, Scotland. Image no 1
I first started with framing Christine in portrait mode, but switched landscape to show more of the environment.

Finding the Perfect Spot

The photoshoot began with a walk down to the Water of Leith, a calm waterway that winds its way through the heart of Dean Village. I intended to utilize the natural light filtering through the surrounding trees while incorporating the water as a visual element. The flowing water and Christine’s movements would create a sense of harmony and connection with the environment.

Dancer Christine Dong along the Water of Leith in Dean Village, Edinburgh, Scotland. Image no 2
I prefer the lansdcape format for this series. Don’t you?

Light and Shadow: Creating Depth

I chose to light Christine with a single, portable flash unit. This technique allowed for focused illumination of Christine while keeping the background slightly underexposed. The underexposure served a dual purpose: it helped to separate Christine from the background, making her the central point of interest, and it also contributed to a richer colour saturation in the final images.

Dancer Christine Dong along the Water of Leith in Dean Village, Edinburgh, Scotland. Image no 3
I had to adjust the light position for this photo and the next.
Dancer Christine Dong along the Water of Leith in Dean Village, Edinburgh, Scotland. Image no 4
A slight change in pose can really affect an image.

Capturing Movement: A Collaborative Effort

Christine and I worked together to create the most captivating images. I let Christine choose the movements and poses that would translate well into photographs. I simply focussed on the composition of the images.

Dancer Christine Dong along the Water of Leith in Dean Village, Edinburgh, Scotland. Image no 5
My favourite of this series.
Dancer Christine Dong along the Water of Leith in Dean Village, Edinburgh, Scotland. Image no 6
My second favourite.

The Power of a Single Flash

The use of a single flash unit throughout the photo shoot is noteworthy. It is possible to create impactful visuals with minimal equipment. By strategically positioning the flash and utilizing the existing ambient light, I balanced illumination and mood, allowing Christine’s movements to take centre stage.

Dancer Christine Dong along the Water of Leith in Dean Village, Edinburgh, Scotland. Image no 7
I let Christine freely express herself.

A Story Told Through Movement

The final photographs from the photoshoot captured the essence of dance – the grace, power, and storytelling ability of the human body in motion.

 

 

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