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Dancer Photography in VA

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Jennifer Fitzpatrick

Jennifer Fitzpatrick began dancing in Lexington, KY, where she studied at The Lexington Ballet and The School for the Creative and Performing Arts, focusing on ballet, jazz, modern, and contemporary styles. She continued her studies at the prestigious Virginia School for the Arts, which helped her pursue a professional career in New York. Although her performing career was eventually halted due to injuries, Jennifer transferred her extensive dance background to Capezio, a dancewear company. As Vice President of Retail, she oversaw the national retail chain, worked on product development, and guided advertising for the world-renowned company. She traveled extensively as an expert pointe shoe fitter and speaker at dance conventions and wrote several articles on the subject for Dance Teacher Magazine and Pointe Magazine.

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Dance Teacher Magazine

Featured

Fitzpatrick started her dance photography business almost two years ago, but her performance bookings disappeared once the pandemic hit. To stay inspired, she launched her Porch Swans initiative in the summer of 2020, where she provided a free 15-minute photo session on dancers' porches and five digital images in exchange for a donation of at least $50 to their favorite dance non-profit. Fifty students took advantage of her offer, raising nearly $6,000.

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    Porch Swans expanded Artistry Reimagined’s social media following, but Fitzpatrick also needed to make an income from her art. Using her background as a former Vice President of Retail at Capezio, a dance instructor, and a marketing strategist for Liesl Dancewear, she decided to shift her focus to helping area dance studios that have been struggling with lower enrollment, higher operating costs, and lost performance opportunities. Fitzpatrick asked Balatsenko if she could turn an unused room inside her 4,000-square-foot store into her photo studio and described her fundraising idea.

FAQ

How do I schedule a shoot with Artistry Reimagined?

Bookings for individual shoots are done via email or social media DMs. Click here for mini-session signups and school groups.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, a $100 non-refundable deposit is due upon booking. If we need to reschedule due to weather, your deposit will transfer to your next date.

What happens if the date gets rained/snowed out?

We will reschedule if needed for the weather. I am always keeping an eye out for the weather and will reach out beforehand if there might be an issue.

What should I bring for my photo shoot?

Outfit changes along with a brush, hair ties, spray, and wipes to clean feet (I like to get dirty sometimes!). Please come with your hair and makeup done.

What should I wear?

Scroll down for some helpful tips or reach out and we will be happy to brainstorm! Artistry Reimagined has an ever growing wardrobe to be used to accompany your own wardrobe.

Do you help pose my dancer?

I am a former professional dancer and teacher, so I help with posing and correcting technique! However, please come prepared with some poses and ideas. We will work on cleaning and perfecting them.

When should I arrive for my shoot?

Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your shoot and be ready to begin on time. Arriving late will unfortunately cut into your time. Shoots are often scheduled back-to-back, so sticking to a schedule is important.

When will my gallery be ready to view?

Turnaround time is currently quoted at 4 weeks. If you require images sooner, you can opt for a $100 rush fee. Please discuss timing when scheduling your shoot.

How do I order my images?

Galleries are typically delivered within 4 weeks of the shoot via an online gallery. You will receive a link and code to download the included images with your package. Digital images are delivered immediately upon ordering through the online system. Prints, canvases, albums, etc. can be ordered directly from your gallery.

How do I print my images?

Once you purchase your digital images, you are welcome to print them wherever you like. I do, however, strongly recommend using a professional printer. I spend hours editing and perfecting colors, which can sometimes get altered in a local Walmart printer. I purposely keep my professional printing prices value-priced to make high-quality prints available. In addition, all print orders placed through your gallery are resized before being sent to the printer. This ensures nothing is cut off even if the edited image does not quite fit the size you are looking to print. All canvas, metal, and acrylic prints will have a mock-up email prior to printing so you can make sure it is to your liking.

Can I see samples of printing options?

Yes! The lobby of Liesl Dancewear has a variety of prints on display, and the new Artistry Reimagined studio in Manassas also has samples. I'm typically working in the store on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings and am happy to walk you through options in person. If you don't see what you are looking for, I have many additional printing options and can customize anything to your needs.

How long until I receive my order?

Your gallery will be delivered to you digitally typically within 4 weeks from the shoot date (if you opted for social media sharing, sneak peeks are posted within a few days). When you order digital images (or use a promo code), the high-resolution images will automatically be emailed to you in a zip file. Please download the file immediately, as when the gallery expires, the zip file will no longer be active. Professional print orders are processed within 2 days and typically arrive within a week. Canvas, metal, and acrylic orders typically take 2 weeks to print and ship.

How long is my gallery active?

Galleries are active for 90 days from the delivery date. You will be sent emails to remind you of the upcoming date. Hosting images is expensive and limited on my end due to the high-resolution nature of professional photography to allow for large and accurate printing. Digital downloads zip files will need to be downloaded within 30 days. If you need photos past their expiration date, there is a $25 reopening gallery fee associated to locate and upload the images.

What is a Collaborating Artist?

Collaborating Artists are a small group of selected dancers that are chosen each year. These dancers get free photoshoots in exchange for helping me grow my brand and creativity. Most recently, the artists have been used to test out new lighting, water shoots, and ads for Liesl Dancewear. See this year's artists here.

Do you share images on Social Media and Liesl Dancewear?

When you book a shoot, you will be asked for permission to share your images. If you prefer, they won't be shared. Sometimes your image will be used on www.lieslshop.com - items worn that have been purchased at Liesl Dancewear have a greater chance of being shared!

What Should I Wear to a Dance Photo Shoot?

  • Wear what makes you feel beautiful! That's #1. If you aren't comfortable, it will show.
  • Plan your outfits in advance. The more time you allow yourself to plan your outfits, the less stressed you’ll be. Plus, it never hurts to have options!
  • Remember the purpose for your dance images. If it’s for your social media, then you can be as creative as possible with your outfit choices. If it’s primarily for your dance auditions be mindful to create a look that a company or a brand you’re auditioning for is looking for. 
  • Whether it’s a classic leotard or a contemporary dress make sure it fits you well and makes you look and feel good.
  • Pick out items of clothing in colors that will complement your background. Use the season to help select color schemes for your outfits.
  • Remember that shoes worn outside will get damaged and often ruined. Wearing old shoes outside is recommended. For indoor studio shoots, newer clean shoes are better.
  • Tights are always optional. Often ballet dancers think tights are a requirement for dancing, but in a photograph, bare skin is often more appealing. If you feel more comfortable wearing tights, wear them! If you choose to not wear tights, remember to shave.
  • Getting a technically correct and stunning image takes time. You are more than welcome to bring multiple outfits, but changing takes up time! Think about ways to have variety by removing or adding a skirt, top, bottoms, and shoes for variety so we can use your time dancing!
  • Long flowy skirts and fabrics can make for fun images! If you have something in mind, ask as I have a variety that can be borrowed.
  • Street clothes that you can move in and don't restrict movement are often a fun option - don't stifle your creativity with only dancewear.
  • When in doubt, think simple. Plain leotards that show you and only you often create the most stunning images.
  • Unless it's your goal for a dramatic make-up look, less is more! Stage make-up, especially heavily caked on foundations can look unnatural to the camera. 
  • Don't worry about blemishes, those are always touched up, but it can be harder to make it look natural with heavy make-up.
  • Starting your session with hair down with the option to put it up is a great way to get a variety of looks. 


Pricing

For the full experience, portrait sessions allow for more time to correct and perfect poses and capture a variety of looks, either on location or with lighting and backgrounds. Scroll below to see options, or contact us to customize! Pricing applies to all locations within 30 miles of zip code 20111. Additional travel fees apply for destinations further away. Some parks, public locations, and DC require permits outside of the general permits held by the photographer. The client is responsible for permit fees. Periodically, Artistry Reimagined offers special pricing for mini-sessions and other school events. These events are shortened sessions with a limited number of images, a great way to capture a few wonderful memories at a value. When clicking BOOK, you will be directed to fill out a form to choose your session options and leave a retainer. We will reach out to find the perfect time, location, and contract.

Click here to book your session

  • Platinum - Up to 4 Hours - 40 Digitals Included

    $800

    Let's create art! With 4 hours, we have time to be both in the studio and outside, unlimited light costume changes, and create a huge sampling of images.


    40 High-Resolution Digitals of your choice are included with a fully edited password-protected gallery that includes all usable images - typically 100+ - all depending on how quickly we achieve poses, outfit changes, and location changes.


    Shared Platinum - Up to 4 Hours - 40 Digitals Each Shared Gold - Up to 2 Hours - 20 Digitals Each

    $550 or $ 900

    Share the cost with your friend and have a blast!


    Typically, 50+ images per person are delivered- all depending on how quickly we achieve poses, outfit changes, and location changes.

  • Gold - Up to 2 Hours - 20 Digitals Included

    $500

    The most popular package includes up to 2 hours of shooting either outdoors or in the studio and 20 included digital images of your choice.


    A fully edited password-protected gallery includes all usable images - typically 30-80 images - all depending on how quickly we achieve poses, outfit changes, and location changes.

  • Silver - Up to 1 Hour - 10 Digitals Included

    $400

    Looking to quickly update your portfolio with a sampling of a few images - this package is also perfect for auditions and headshots.


    Choose either outdoors or in the studio for up to an hour and 10 digital images are included. A fully edited password-protected gallery includes all usable images. Typically, 20-50 images - all depending on how quickly we achieve poses, outfit changes, and location changes.


  • Audition/Headshots Only

    $300

    30 Minutes and 3 Digitals Included


    Studio only. Get the required audition photos with a trained ballet dancer/teacher to help guide and correct. Large monitor to view and correct live images.


    Mini sessions are offered throughout the year for savings or choose the silver package to get the required audition images and a little more with gel lights, added skirts, and a change of outfits.


    Once the gallery is delivered, additional images are $30 each.

  • Sampling of Standard Add-Ons:

    Full Resolution Digital Image $30 - Quantity Discounts

    8x10 Canvas - $49.99

    4x6 Professional Print - $8.50

    8x10 Professional Print - $18

    Custom Designed Fine Art Albums - Starting at $199.99


    Print packages designed for individual packages, performances, and schools.

* Do you dance in R-Class pointe shoes? *

I am the marketing manager for the brand in North and South America. R-Class dancers receive discounts and can participate in other free marketing events! Contact me to find out more!

What goes into the pricing for a professional photographer?

Hidden Hours

When a photographer charges $300 for a one-hour session, they're not charging $300 an hour.

 At the very minimum, professional photographers typically spend at least three times that on a session.

  • Over an hour of planning the shoot
  • Time traveling to the shoot
  • Half an hour to set up the equipment
  • The actual hour at the shoot
  • Time traveling back
  • 1-3 hours to load and choose the best images
  • 2-6 hours to edit the images
  • 1 hour to load the images online
  • 1 hour to order and deliver, provide customer service

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    That one-hour session? The photographer probably spent a full 8-10 hours on it. That $300 session, then, becomes roughly $30 an hour, not including expenses.


    So, Let's Talk Expenses 


    Gear

    ·       A dance photographer must have a professional-grade DSLR or mirrorless camera to capture fast-moving objects in low light. The Nikon Z9 costs $5900 for just the body.

     ·       A zoom lens is $2,000-$5,000. 

    ·       Each memory card is $100-$400 – 2 per camera for back-ups to ensure no lost files.

    ·       Most photographers have a second or third camera body in case of emergencies as well as to have different lenses loaded quickly for fast reactionary time.

     ·       Portrait lenses are $1,000-$3,000 and multiple lenses are always necessary for different scenarios.

     ·       Studio space! The cost of renting or buying a studio space varies based on geographic location—but it's a safe bet that you can factor in at least $500-$1500 a month

    ·       Professional flashes are $800-1500 a piece – 4-5 flashes are required for studio dance photography

    ·       Multiple backdrop options ($50-$200 each).

    ·       Sprung dance floors and Marley flooring are $2,000-$10,000


     It's not uncommon for professional photographers to spend half their income on studio expenses and keeping their gear up to date. 

  • Editing and Delivering

    To keep skin tones from becoming odd colors, professional photographers need a high-end display that will show the image just like it will print out. 

     ·       Most photographers have about $4,000 in computer equipment (including external hard drives to back up those photos), and like cameras, they have to be replaced every few years

    ·       $40/month subscription to Photoshop and Lightroom.

    ·       $50/month or 7% of total sales for photo hosting services depending on the service.

    ·       $50-$200 a month for web domain and website.


    Oh, there is more! 

    ·       35% of the profit goes to taxes on a small business owner.

    ·       A small business owner does not have insurance or vacation and sick days.

    ·       Equipment and business insurance $500-$1000

    ·       Utilities—including a faster-than-average internet speed for uploading large image files online

    ·       Marketing expenses – flyers, prints, ads… the list goes on. 


    This brings that $30 an hour from the $300 session down to about $15 or $20, and that doesn't calculate the time expense of prior and continued education.  


    A good dance photographer also has a background in dance and can pose and correct. That's 20+ years of studying the art form! 


    Many photographers work multiple jobs or work in different genres of photography to make ends meet, and the ones that don't are charging well above that $300 for a one-hour session. 


    Photography Is More Than Just Pushing a Button.

Sure, you can probably get photos for under that $300 by walking into a chain studio, often located inside a department store. But here's the thing—I've seen the help wanted ads for these types of businesses, and they say no photography experience is necessary. What were they looking for in their applications? Marketing experience. When you hire a professional portrait photographer, you get images that make you feel confident about yourself.


Thank you for choosing to hire a professional photographer!

Technical Support


Professional photography requires a lot of technology in the background not only to create beautiful images but also to provdie web viewing and delivery. If you are having issues - we are happy to help! Don't hesitate to reach out. Here are a few of the most common issues and questions.

  • I pre-purchased a package - How do I redeem it?

    If you pre-purchased a specific amount of images - they will be loaded in your cart when you recieve the email. Navigate to your cart and fill in your desired images. Often more images than were ordered are captured - we do our best to capture and deliver more! If that happens, they are in your gallery to choose from and you can choose to purchase additional images as well as printed products in the same order.


    If your studio chose an unlimited download package built into your recital fees, you will receive an individual password to log in. Follow the instructions on the homepage of your main gallery by selecting the images of your dancer, adding to the cart, and checking out.

  • I checked out, where are my digital files now?

    Due to the nature of professional photography, high resolutions are large and need to be sent in a zip file. Please allow for 24 hours to process the file. This is currently a manual process for the safety of our customers. We check the digital files to make sure it is all the same dancer that is being downloaded and not someone else's child.


    Zip file links are active for 30 days and then expire. It is recommended that you download them onto a computer vs a phone. You can always transfer them to your phone later, but a computer will allow for easier extraction and safety of the files.

  • How do I open a Zip File?

    Professional photography creates large files that will be sent to you in a zip file after you check out. This will be sent as an online hosted link that is valid for 30 days so make sure you download it - not let it sit in your inbox.


    A ZIP file is a type of file format that contains compressed files and folders for the purpose of archiving, storage, and/or transmission. It is treated as one file when being transferred or transmitted from one digital storage space to another. These files have the file extension “.zip” at the end of their name.


    Most operating systems have built-in software that can create and open ZIP files. But there is also third-party software you can use, such as WinZip, 7zip, and WinRAR, that can also do the same.

    1. Click on the link in your email. The file will typically begin downloading in your Downloads folder unles you have routed it somewhere else.

    2. Most browsers will have a notification on the bottom of your screen that you can click once it's downloaded, Or, you can navigate to the downloads folder.

    3. On a PC: right click and select "Extract All" (On a Mac - double clicking will open the files)


    - In the pop-up menu, select a location to extract the files. 

    - If you want your files to be extracted in another location, click “Browse” and select your destination in the pop-up window. 

    - Once you’ve selected a destination folder, click “OK.”

    - Note: Make sure to check “Show extracted files when complete” so you can immediately find the unzipped files after it is opened and extracted.

    - Finally, click “Extract” in the pop-up menu. 

    - The built-in software will start extracting the files from inside the ZIP folder. 

  • Why are images are not all loading or I'm getting an error message?

    Sometimes when you have reloaded internet pages with many high resolution images several times your browser will get clogged. Reading and processing images depends on the available memory on your divice. You can easily fix this issue by clearing your cache. Below are instructions:


    Computer

    • Open Chrome. (most browsers work like this)

    • At the top right, click More .

    • Click More tools  

    • Clear browsing data.

    • At the top, choose a time range. 

    • To delete everything, select All time.

    • Next to "Cookies and other site data" and "Cached images and files," check the boxes.

    • Click Clear data.


    Android

    • On your Android phone or tablet, open the Chrome app

    • At the top right, tap More .

    • Tap History. 

    • Clear browsing data.

    • At the top, choose a time range.

    • To delete everything, select All time.

    • Next to "Cookies and site data" and "Cached images and files," check the boxes.

    • Tap Clear data.


    iPhone

    • Open the Settings app. 

    • Tap Safari. 

    • Tap Clear History and Website Data. 

    • On the screen that pops up, choose Clear History and Data.

Contact

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN WORKING TOGETHER? DROP ME A LINE BY FILLING OUT THE FORM BELOW, AND I WILL GET BACK TO YOU.

PLEASE NOTE: Jennifer is fully booked through May 2024. Be on the lookout for R-Class model calls for other photoshoot opportunities

Email: info@artistryreimagined.com

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