TimeLine Media Blog

DC Area Arthur Murray Studios

The photos from last September’s 2015 Fall Freestyles expiring at the TimeLine Media proofing site. During this event, we had six professional shows on Saturday evening! Given that I make so many photos of pro-am dance couples, having professionals dancing together presents fun challenges.

2015 Arthur Murray Fall Freestyles at TimeLine Media

Pushing Limits

In order to capture professional dance shows, you really push the limits of the camera. Auto focus systems are frequently updated with each new camera body. In that case, I use the highest end sports cameras to track these dancers and keep them sharp in photos.

Despite the highest end gear, I still have more misses than usual for a dance performance. Can I blame this all on the camera? I wish! But no – I am also part of the equation. First of all, is the palpable buzz in the room when the shows are about to start. Everyone in the room is focusing their attention on the only couple out on the floor. This heightens my nerves, and puts me on edge as I want to come out with some great images from their performance.

Secondly, these are the most skilled dancers in the room wanting to display their talent and skill to the fullest. Although they may do some familiar figures, they will not look exactly the same as amateur dancers, and their movements will be full out in every instance! While these make the best photos, it does shift the timing for me somewhat, and I can be off from the peak moment.

Lastly, they can be performing figures that are not standard. Unlike the syllabus that is taught to everyone, they add some showy flourishes that are not normally seen in social dancing. These surprises keep me on my toes during shows and make this my favorite part of the weekend. I hope you enjoy all the photos!

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