Reflections on 2023 Pas de Deux Photo Conference
The 2023 Pas de Deux Photo Conference took place at the historic Chicago Hilton, with the theme “Bright Lights, Big City.” It was a transformative experience that brought together dancers, photographers, parents, and enthusiasts from around the globe. Attendees enjoyed inspiring talks, stunning visual displays, and the chance to explore new gear at the trade show. Highlights included an informative talk by Steven Karageanes, the captivating work of David Cooper, an innovative light painting workshop led by Zo, and an unforgettable dawn photo shoot with Dane Shitagi and Anne O’Donnell.
Safeguarding Dancers in Photography
For the first time, thanks to Beth McKinney’s initiative, the Pas de Deux Photo Conference invited NEAMA (Nonprofit Education and Advocacy for the Movement Arts) to deliver the keynote address to photographers. Steven Karageanes, NEAMA’s co-vice president, gave a thought-provoking talk that resonated deeply with the audience. NEAMA is committed to protecting and promoting the physical, psychological, and sexual well-being of both youth and adults, stressing the importance of community support while respecting individuality. Karageanes’ talk highlighted the critical role the dance community plays in safeguarding the welfare of its members. His message resonated throughout the conference, igniting a shared call to action. Attendees left with a renewed dedication—not only to mastering their craft but also to actively promoting the well-being of dancers.
Inspired by his talk, I took a hard look at my own social media presence and removed a few images that could potentially be misused by predators. The idea that a photo of a dancer could be exploited inappropriately made me realize the responsibility I have as a photographer. I encourage my fellow dance photographers to be mindful of the images we share, especially those of underage dancers.
David Cooper – A true artistic genius
David Cooper’s impressive career spanning 40 years in performing arts took center stage at the conference. His recent foray into creating Screen Dance films with local choreographers showcased his artistic versatility and commitment to innovation. Attendees were entranced by Mr. Cooper’s ability to capture the essence of movement through his lens. His work not only celebrated the beauty of dance but also reflected the evolution of the art form over the years. Mr. Cooper’s inspiring journey served as a reminder that dedication and a passion for storytelling can create timeless pieces of art. I was so moved by this Eclipse video that tears were coming down my face. I walked out from the talk speechless and inspired. You can watch the Eclipse video here.
Zo’s Light Painting Workshop: A Fusion of Art and Landscape
Alonzo Alcaraz (aka @Zo_After_Dark) infused the conference with a burst of creativity through his light painting workshop. Using the dazzling cityscape of downtown Chicago as his canvas, Zo demonstrated the captivating technique of light painting using Eric Pare’s Tube Lights. Attendees were immersed in a world of vibrant colors and intricate designs, witnessing the seamless marriage of photography, choreography, and urban landscapes. Zo’s workshop was a testament to the boundless possibilities of artistic expression and the magic that can unfold when creative minds converge.
Dawn Delight with Dane: Dane Shitagi and Anne O’Donnell’s sunrise photo walk
The conference took an enchanting turn as the sun rose over downtown Chicago during a dawn photo walk led by Dane Shitagi of the “Ballerina Project” and Anne O’Donnell from the Martha Graham Dance Company. Anne’s graceful movements amidst the tranquil morning setting, accompanied by the graceful flight of seagulls and pigeons, painted a mesmerizing picture of beauty and serenity. Attendees were treated to an unforgettable display of talent and artistry, capturing the essence of dance in its most ethereal form. The early morning session served as a poignant reminder of the power of dance to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.
2023 Photo Competition
The 2023 Pas de Deux Dance Photography Competition was a global celebration of dance photography, with submissions requiring at least five images to qualify for the Grand Prize. A distinguished jury of professional dancers and photographers reviewed the entries, and the winners were announced at the Welcome Reception in Chicago, accompanied by a mini gallery showcasing the top winners’ work. I was thrilled to see Jingzi Zhao win the Grand Prize, her work truly stood out among a highly competitive field. I was also proud to have my own work place 3rd and 7th in the Portrait Series and 5th and 6th in Teen Dancers. You can view these incredible submissions here.
One of the exciting parts of the conference was also having my friend Lauren Willmann participate as a dance model for the workshops. It was her first time in Chicago, and I loved seeing her excitement as she explored the big city. Having her there made the experience even more special, adding a fresh energy to the workshops.
The 2023 Pas de Deux Dance Photography Conference was a journey of discovery, inspiration, and artistic growth. The PDD 2023 conference concluded with a captivating class led by the delightful Judy Host. I enjoyed watching Judy expertly direct dancers dressed in whimsical, creative, and stylish outfits. From thought-provoking talks that emphasized the importance of community to captivating visual displays that celebrated the art of dance, the conference left a profound impact on everyone who attended. The diverse range of perspectives and creative expressions showcased at the event served as a reminder of the boundless potential that lies at the intersection of dance and photography. As attendees departed with hearts full of newfound inspiration and insights, they carried with them a deeper appreciation for the art form and a commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering dance community.