what studio picture days mean to me
Growing up, my dance studio always had an annual picture day where we would get into full costume, hair, and makeup and get photographed individually & a group in each dance that we were in for that season. It was always one of the highlights of the year for me. Having photos has always been a huge priority in my life because I love capturing memories to look back on, which is why I fell into doing photography.
My family always ordered ALL my photos from studio picture days year after year. I remember my mom putting up all of my pictures from my 15 years of dance on display at my high school graduation party. It was the most incredible thing to see all of the dances that I was a part of throughout my youth. They were even in order from youngest to oldest. My mom is also a seamstress & made a lot of my costumes, so she put a special heart sticker on all the costumes that she made, which was such a special touch!
Sometimes getting your picture taken can feel a little awkward or nervous, especially with the younger kids or ones who are just starting dance. I like to set a fun environment on picture day and it is my goal to bring out the best smiles in all of the pictures. I believe it should be a fun experience with your friends & teachers. I also add extra time into the schedule for the little ones and I have a couple of "camera buddies" such as a bunny or a monkey that sits on top of my camera so they have something to look at and not feel so intimidating.
Ordering all your pictures can definitely add up and get very expensive, which is why it is my goal to make pictures accessible & affordable for all families. I never got to see the photos before I ordered them, which is why I have an online ordering system where families can pick out their favorites and order exactly what they want. I know the world is also leaning away from the art of print, so I offer digital downloads as well, but there is still something special about having your photos printed out and seeing them all side by side.
Everyone always has an idea of what their dream job would be, but it doesn't always seem achievable. If I went back and told my younger self that I would be photographing dance for a living, I wouldn't believe it! But looking back on it now, my career is the perfect fit for me and I enjoy every second of it.
-Alexis
