I did the typical dance classes that all young girls do: ballet, tap and jazz. It was taught in a church auditorium. It was the 80's and I distinctly remember dancing to "Everyone wants to rule the world", with neon pink leg warmers and an off the shoulder sweatshirt like Flashdance (Irene Cara was my hero - an exotic dancer didn't exist in my 8-year old brain - all I knew is that she could dance!). But I didn't dance for long. Soon, we moved out of the country and other sports took over my interests. I grew up always loving music and dancing, but never formally took a class again. Until 3 years ago...
There was a local studio that I passed often on my way home from work. It looked like fun, and a quick web search showed that I could take hip-hop classes with no commitment (the best description was "absolute beginner" - no experience necessary). From that day I was hooked. At first I did it because I loved hip-hop music, the teachers were encouraging and energetic. Quickly I joined the annual showcase to perform in front of a live audience. It was incredibly thrilling and addictive, so I continued with classes and performances. It has become a passion, a release and a huge part of my life.
But what does this have to do with photography?
Well for me - everything.
Dance teaches you a lot about yourself, and how your energy relates to the people around you. When you learn to push your body and your mind at the same time, the satisfaction that movement gives you is unparalleled. Plus, accomplishing something, even something small, is so satisfying.
Photographers can learn a lot from dancers. They are open to emotion, and not just their own, but they feed off the energy of people around them. They take that energy, along with their own and translate it into often beautiful movement and expression. I strive to have the same exchange every time I enter a dance AND a photography studio. Emotion is a wonderful guide to the arts and for me, is one of the most important feelings when I dance and take photos.
